Alma Rosa Winery will host its “Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps in the Right Direction” fundraising walk May 31 at its El Jabali estate in Buellton, bringing together community members, sponsors and local organizations to support mental health services and research.
The event, set for 9 a.m. at the winery property on Santa Rosa Road, benefits the One Mind and Santa Barbara’s Mental Wellness Center, which focus on mental health treatment, education and support services.
The walk was founded by Alma Rosa owners Bob and Barb Zorich and has raised more than $1.2 million over the past six years, according to organizers. This year, the couple will match the first $100,000 in donations to the beneficiary organizations.
“Surpassing the one-million-dollar milestone last year was an incredibly meaningful moment,” Bob Zorich said in a statement. “As we gather this May again during Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re committed to building on that momentum.”
Participants will complete a 4.5-mile route through the Sta. Rita Hills area, with pre-walk remarks planned from mental health leaders and advocates before the 9 a.m. start.
Following the walk, a reception at the estate will feature local wines, food vendors, live music and community sponsors. The event will also include raffle prizes and refreshments provided by a range of corporate and in-kind donors.
Lisa André covers lifestyle and local news for Santa Ynez Valley News and Lompoc Record, editions of the Santa Maria Times.