10/11/2026
There are so many people to thank, and I truly don’t know if we could ever adequately express just how grateful we are!
I’m sharing this wonderful post from the VFW Post 2814 Auxiliary because they really couldn’t have said it better.
Together, we raised over $1,500 to help Ponderosa continue its mission!
Since Ponderosa began in June 2023, we’ve helped dozens of senior, veteran, and disabled homeowners in our community with home safety improvements, maintenance, and repairs that allow them to remain safer and more comfortable in their homes.
To everyone who pre-ordered dinners, purchased meals to donate, purchased individual meals yesterday, helped deliver meals to those who couldn’t make it, volunteered their time, contributed financially, or simply helped spread the word — THANK YOU!
And a few very special thank-yous are absolutely in order:
❤️ VFW 2814 Atascadero, CA — For your continued support of Ponderosa and your generous financial donation during this fundraiser. Your commitment to our veterans and community means so much.
❤️ VFW Post 2814 Auxiliary — For your donation of meals to those in need, your incredible help with this fundraiser, and the support you provide year after year. We are so fortunate to have you in our corner!
❤️ My sister, Heidi Phillips— our Ponderosa Volunteer Queen! If you know Heidi, you know she has one of the biggest hearts. She gives so much of herself to helping others, and I genuinely don’t know how we would pull off these fundraisers without her running the show! She is an amazing human, and I’m so grateful for her.
❤️ Chef Ron — For generously donating your time, food, and incredible talents in the kitchen and at the grill. You helped make this fundraiser something truly special (and delicious!).
❤️ Locals Helping Locals (Kristina Newby) — For helping us connect with families in our community who could truly benefit from a donated meal. Sometimes something as simple as a warm dinner can bring a little comfort and a big smile, and we’re so grateful you helped make those connections.
❤️ JoAnn Conner and the Atascadero Elks Vet Team — For coming out, picking up donated meals, and making sure they reached veterans in our community. Thank you for always showing up for those who have served.
❤️ Margarita Adventures — For your generous donation of a family adventure night to support our fundraiser! We know our winner Zeke & Zoe Porter will have a great time at the escape room!
And to the countless others who helped behind the scenes, offered a helping hand, made a donation, or cheered us on — please know how much you are appreciated.
One of the greatest parts of this fundraiser was knowing that 11 veterans and families were able to enjoy a BBQ dinner at no cost to them, thanks to the generosity of others. That’s what community is all about. Neighbors helping neighbors, people looking out for one another, and kindness finding its way to exactly where it’s needed.
Ponderosa may be a small nonprofit, but the heart behind it is enormous — because that heart belongs to an entire community of people willing to give, help, and care.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in what we do and helping us continue doing it❤️
