Donna Ramos, Elena Ramos-Peffly – owner, Brian Peffly – owner, George Jercich – artist Bobby deLancalotti – Kindness founder, Katie deLancalotti – advancement director. Photo by Dean Sullivan
The Estero Bay Kindness Coalition celebrated a triumphant community gathering on Sunday, August 2, as “Kindness: An Art Show and Fundraiser” filled Casa Ramos Art Gallery with joyful energy and overwhelming support. Nearly 200 neighbors attended the lively afternoon, helping the Kindness Coalition raise more than $20,000 to strengthen its food programs ahead of the new school year.
The exhibition spotlighted special guest artist Arthur Carrillo of Homeboy Art Academy (Los Angeles) and featured a live wood-carving demonstration by local craftsman Jonny Miller, who generously donated the finished piece to the event raffle. Casa Ramos further supported the cause by donating 40% of art sales that day to the Estero Bay Kindness Coalition, totaling a $4,000 donation.
The event was action-packed: live music from Shane Stoneman and Miss Leo’s String Trio set a warm, festive tone; Durham Wine + Cider generously provided all pours for attendees; an ice cream truck and a spirited raffle added to the excitement.
Funds raised will be used to bolster the Kindness Coalition’s core programs Got Your Back and Bags of Love ensuring kids and families in Estero Bay receive reliable, nutritious food as they head back to school. Got Your Back provides discreet weekend backpacks filled with meals and snacks for food-insecure K–8 students, while Bags of Love delivers three balanced, protein-rich and nutrient dense grocery bags weekly to households in Los Osos, Morro Bay, Cayucos, Cambria, and San Simeon.
“We’re deeply thankful to Casa Ramos, the artists and performers, our generous donors, and every community member who bought raffle tickets or came out to support us,” said Estero Bay Kindness Coalition Founder Bobby deLancellotti. “This event shows the power of community — when we come together, we strengthen food security and restore dignity for our neighbors when they need it most.”
To learn more about the Estero Bay Kindness Coalition or to donate, go to esterobaykindnesscoalition.org.
