Our Story

After family and friends gathered to brainstorm ideas to honor Emily’s legacy and her unwavering dedication to volunteerism, a heartfelt plan began to take shape. Inspired by her spirit of giving, the community came together to create a lasting tribute. The Central Coast Exchange Club graciously embraced the idea and stepped forward to host this meaningful program, ensuring Emily’s inspiring commitment to service will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

Emily's Day Mission: To promote community engagement and encourage volunteerism in SLO County while recognizing outstanding community service projects.

CENTRAL COAST EXCHANGE CLUB

VISION STATEMENT: A strong America, safe communities, and unified people. Exchange, inspiring communities to become better places to live.

Exchange is comprised of

•More than 650 local-level Exchange Club throughout the United States and in Puerto Rico

•Nearly 20,000 dedicated members serving their communities

•11 regions and 30 districts working alongside The National Exchange Club Headquarters to help clubs serve communities and uphold Exchange’s Mission.

For more: www.NationalExchangeClub.org.

Project Ideas

Community Clean-Up – Organize local clean-up events for parks, streets, and public spaces.
Food Bank Assistance – Help sort, package, and distribute food to those in need.
Homeless Shelter Support – Provide meals, clothing, or companionship to homeless individuals.
Environmental Conservation – Participate in tree planting, recycling drives, or habitat restoration.
Fundraising Events – Help organize charity events, runs, or donation drives.
Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns – Promote social issues like mental health, anti-violence, or community safety.
Youth Program Development – Create mentorship or recreational activities for youth.
Clothing Drives – Collect and distribute clothes to those in need.
Building Projects – Assist with constructing homes, community centers, or playgrounds.
Anything that promotes volunteerism!

Guidelines

This award incentive does not seek any money from the organization, it’s simply to encourage volunteerism!

Participation:
- Open to non-profits and community based organizations.
- Participants organize and carry out a "Day of Service" with activities of their choice. It can be as small or as big as the participants want.
- Eligible time of participation: July 1st, 2025-March 31st, 2026. Applications must be received by March 31st, 2026 11:59pm.
- Political Action Committees are not eligible.
Activity Guidelines:
- Activities can include, but are not limited to:
  - Community clean-up events
  - Fundraising BBQs or bake sales
  - Educational outreach
  - Environmental conservation projects
  - Supporting local shelters or food banks
- Participants MUST label their chosen volunteer day as "Emily's Day"
- Participants can customize their "Emily's Day" to align with community priorities or personal passions (PDFs and JPEGS are available below)
Documentation & Submission:
- Participants must document their activities with photographs, videos, and/or written reports.
- Complete a brief questionnaire detailing the activity, impact, and organization involved.
- Submit their documentation and questionnaire through the google form.
Selection & Awards:
- A selection committee composed of Emily’s family and friends plus key leaders in the community will review submissions based on creativity, community impact, and participation. Awardees will be based on a sliding scale as determined by the committee.
- Winners will be announced and receive up to a $1,000 award in April during National Volunteer Week.
- The award money will go directly to the organization facilitating the activity.

Emily's Day Logos