We had a wonderful 7th Annual Butterfly Ball supporting our local State Parks and the western monarch butterfly.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for a night of dancing and entertainment, informative presentations, dinner by Popolo, a silent auction, and an awards ceremony. We honored local young leaders and community champions making a difference in conservation. Read about last year’s winners and submit your 2026 nominations here.
We award the John Laird Lifetime Achievement Award for exceptional contributions to the conservation profession and the advocacy for preservation of the State of California’s natural and cultural resources, parks and open spaces over the course of one’s career. Senator John Laird dedicated much of his career to advocating for policy that addresses his top priorities: climate change, water conservation, access to state parks, and ocean sustainability. The inaugural John Laird Lifetime Achievement Award will be granted on September 12th, 2026 in San Luis Obispo at the Central Coast State Parks Association’s Butterfly Ball gala event.
The count is almost in… we hope to raise $50,000 to ensure 2027 educational programs continue to thrive in Central Coast State Parks, including:
Education Program Support: Free school field trips, guided hikes, school supplies, and volunteer program support to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
Community Engagement: Local events, internship programs, and Nature Stores that deepen connections between the community and our environment.
Park Maintenance & Signage: Museum exhibit upgrades and trail signage to improve access and visitor experience.
Western Monarch Conservation Programs: Support for Monarch Trailer staffing, updated brochures, and educational signage to help protect the western monarch butterfly.
View photos from our 2025 event here.
View photos from our 2024 event here.
View photos from our 2022 event (photographer Tim Wills de Tone) here.
