Panel Discussion: Event Planning Essentials

We cannot wait to engage in a dynamic and energizing conversation about the status and future of events in SLO County. As the funding landscape continues to shift for nonprofits of all sizes, many organizations are taking a fresh look at events and rethinking their purpose, performance, and potential.

Let’s be honest. Some events raise meaningful dollars. Some successfully build awareness and community connection. And others leave us quietly wondering why we still host them, often because we have always done it or because our boards expect it. This program will lean into those honest questions. Are our events truly advancing our mission? Are they meeting fundraising goals? Are they worth the staff time and volunteer energy they require?

We are thrilled to welcome an outstanding panel of local leaders who bring diverse perspectives from higher education, nonprofit fundraising, and the private event sector. Dana Matteson, who oversees Presidential Events and Programs at California Polytechnic State University, Cody Dawson, Benefit Auctioneer Specialist, and Azuare Shults, Wedding and Event Coordinator at Ciel Bleu Event Design, will share what they are seeing across the industry, what is trending, what is fading, and where opportunity exists. Guiding the discussion will be moderator Emily L'Heureux, CEO of Woods Humane Society.

Together, we will explore creative ways to refine and elevate our own events, whether the goal is stronger net revenue, deeper donor engagement, or greater community awareness. We will discuss practical adjustments that can help events better align with fundraising or visibility goals, and bold ideas for reimagining what events can look like as our community continues to grow.

Come ready for candid insights, fresh thinking, and a conversation that will challenge and inspire you to see your events in a whole new way

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher AFP San Luis Obispo County Chapter