CHAMPIONS OF THE VALLEY

31st Annual Volunteer Awards Celebration

October 11. 2026

 

CHAMPIONS OF THE VALLEY

Honoring volunteers who uplift others and help our community thrive

For more than 30 years, Champions of the Valley has celebrated the extraordinary volunteers of the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos who quietly give their time, talent, and heart to uplift others and strengthen our community.

Join us on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Camp Carmina in Los Olivos for this cherished community tradition. More than an awards program, Champions of the Valley is an opportunity to recognize the power of volunteerism and honor those whose service inspires us all.

Nominations are now open! We invite you to nominate an outstanding volunteer, become an event sponsor, and join us in celebrating the individuals whose service makes our communities extraordinary places to live, work, and thrive.

Know a volunteer who gives their time, talent, and heart to others?

Nominate them today and help us celebrate their extraordinary service.

Nominate a Champion
Nominate a Youth Community Champion

Champions are nominated by community members like you! The honorees are selected by a committee of past recipients and Santa Ynez Valley Foundation board members and will be announced in late August. They will be recognized at the Champions of the Valley celebration on October 11th. 

Each adult Champion receives a $1,000 grant from the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation to direct to the nonprofit organization of their choice, extending the impact of their volunteer service. Youth Champions, students in grades 9–12, receive a $1,000 scholarship to support their educational goals. 

Questions? Email admin@syValleyFoundation.org or phone 805.688.2991.

Pictured: 2025 Champion and Youth Community Champion honorees

We invite you to partner with us!

BECOME A SPONSOR

Sponsoring the 31st Annual Champions of the Valley is a meaningful way to recognize outstanding volunteers and invest in a celebration that reflects the spirit of our community. Sponsor tiers range from $500 to $5000. Join our growing list!

SPONSORS ENJOY:

  • Logo recognition at the event and on invitations

  • A presence in printed event materials

  • Visibility in social media, local press, and the Foundation website

  • Reserved event seating

Celebrating the spirit of service: A few of the 2025 Champions of the Valley honorees.

We are delighted to welcome back the Women Winemakers & Culinarians Foundation as our Bites & Beverages Sponsor for 2026.