PURPOSE raises record $2.8 million in Paso Robles

By Staff Report · Wed Aug 12 2026

PASO ROBLES — PURPOSE 2026 raised a record $2.8 million during its Aug. 8 fundraising event at Law Estate Wines, bringing the annual invitation-only event’s total raised to nearly $13 million.

The event, benefiting Must! Charities, brought approximately 125 invited guests together for an evening of wine, food, entertainment and philanthropy. Hosted by Paso Robles winemakers and winery owners, PURPOSE is designed as an intimate fundraising experience rather than a traditional large-scale gala.

A highlight of the evening was the auction of Lot 6: Uncorked Masterclass, a private wine and culinary experience at SÉDUIRE Wine in Paso Robles’ Willow Creek District. The lot, featuring Chef Julien Asseo of Les Petites Canailles, Champagne, caviar, dinner and rare wines, sold for $360,000.

The event’s Fund-a-Need generated another $1.3 million, with donations supporting the launch of Dentistry in School, a partnership with Tolosa Children’s Dental Center that will bring dental care directly to children in San Miguel.

Must! Charities CEO Becky Gray credited donors, winemakers, sponsors, volunteers and event organizers for the record-setting result.

“People will see $2.8 million and understandably focus on the amount,” Gray said. “But what moves me is everything it took to get there.”

The event was hosted by Law Estate Wines and supported by sponsors, vintners, donors, auction partners and volunteers. Must! Charities invests in long-term solutions intended to strengthen children, families and communities throughout San Luis Obispo County.

Learn more about the nonprofit at MustCharities.org