Livermore Valley Leans In

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As the seasons shift and the vines settle after harvest, something deeper takes root across Livermore Valley—an unwavering spirit of generosity. Here in wine country, we know that the strength of our community isn’t just measured in vintages bottled or acres planted, but in how we show up for one another. Whether through fundraising for local youth, collecting toys for families in need, or extending support to fellow wine regions in crisis, Livermore Leans In—with compassion, collaboration, and purpose. This year, our wine community rallied behind multiple philanthropic efforts that reflect who we are and what we stand for: the 2025 Livermore Valley Wine Auction, which raised vital funds for local youth and health services; our annual Holidays in the Vineyards partnership with Toys for Tots, bringing joy to families during the season of giving; and a heartfelt show of solidarity with the Texas Hill Country Wineries’ Rosé to Rebuild fundraiser, supporting flood relief efforts in a fellow wine region. In Livermore Valley, we are committed to making an impact, one glass and one gesture at a time.

The 31st Livermore Valley Wine Auction

On Saturday, September 20, 2025, Livermore Valley came alive in its most festive form as friends, supporters, and wine lovers gathered at the Wente Family Vineyards Event Center for the 31st Livermore Valley Wine Auction. It was more than a garden party—it was an afternoon infused with purpose, elegance, and heart.

Guests strolled the lawn, tasting an array of award‑winning local wines paired with seasonal gourmet bites prepared by artisan chefs. The atmosphere was relaxed but electric—wine in hand, good company, and a shared sense that this gathering was about more than sipping; it was about lifting lives. The live auction featured exclusive bottles, wine collections, travel experiences, and other special lots that reflect the creativity and generosity of our wine community. 

What makes this event especially meaningful are the beneficiaries chosen for 2025—nonprofits doing critical work for underserved children and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Funds from the auction will go to:

  • CALICO, which provides trauma‑informed forensic interviews and family advocacy support for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
  • Open Heart Kitchen, which runs the largest hot meal program in the Tri‑Valley and offers grocery distribution to families in need. 
  • Sunflower Hill, an organization creating inclusive residential and day programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Valley Humane Society, which uses pet‑assisted therapy to support the emotional needs of children, bringing compassion and comfort in unique ways. 

Over its three‑decade history, the Livermore Valley Wine Auction has raised over $6.8 million for local nonprofits. Last year alone (2024), the event raised more than $375,000 to support local children’s nonprofits.

This year’s event continued that legacy, combining celebration and community in a way that shows exactly how Livermore Leans In. Whether donating auction items, sponsoring tables, volunteering behind the scenes, or simply attending and bidding, every person in the room helped raise up the lives of children in our region.

Toys for Tots: A Tradition of Giving

As the holiday season approaches once again in 2025, the Livermore Valley Wine Community is gearing up to continue a cherished tradition of generosity through its partnership with Toys for Tots. Reflecting on the 2024 campaign, participating wineries and community members came together to collect over 1,200 toys and $5,000 in donations, bringing joy and hope to local children and families in need during the festive season.

The annual Holidays in the Vineyards event serves as the heart of this initiative, with tasting rooms offering seasonal experiences while encouraging guests to donate new, unwrapped toys. Many wineries also provide special incentives—such as waived tasting fees or exclusive pours—to thank visitors for their generosity. This collaboration between wineries, Pacific States Petroleum, and the community has been a shining example of how Livermore Leans In to support those who need it most.

Looking ahead to the 2025 holiday season, the spirit of giving remains strong. Visitors are encouraged to bring toys and donations to participating wineries throughout December, helping to ensure the tradition continues and that no child in the Tri-Valley is left without a gift during the holidays. Because in Livermore, the season truly is about more than just wine—it’s about giving back, lifting up, and sharing hope.Keep an eye on the Toys for Tots website for information on this year’s festivities!

Rosé to Rebuild: Sipping for a Cause

On Saturday, September 6, 2025, the Livermore Valley Wine Community extended its reach beyond California to support fellow wine enthusiasts in the Texas Hill Country. In partnership with Texas Hill Country Wineries (THCW) and Horseshoe Bay Resort, Livermore wineries contributed to the Hill Country Road Show: Rosé to Rebuild fundraiser, which raised $33,467 for flood relief efforts in the Texas Hill Country.

The event featured over 35 Texas wineries pouring a selection of rosé and other Texas varietals, accompanied by light appetizers and live music. Guests had the opportunity to meet winemakers and owners, experiencing firsthand the resilient spirit of the Texas Hill Country. Proceeds from ticket sales, silent auctions, sponsorships, and merchandise sales were directed to two local organizations: Ark of the Highland Lakes and the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, both of which are playing a vital role in supporting families, businesses, and communities affected by the devastating July floods.

This collaboration exemplifies the Livermore Valley Wine Community’s commitment to supporting fellow wine regions in times of need. By participating in events like Rosé to Rebuild, Livermore Leans In to help rebuild and strengthen communities beyond its borders.
As we move through the heart of the season and reflect on a year already filled with meaningful moments, we’re reminded that generosity is one of Livermore Valley’s most enduring traditions. Through the Wine Auction, our holiday partnership with Toys for Tots, and our outreach to Texas Hill Country, we’ve seen what’s possible when a community comes together with intention and care. These efforts are more than moments—they’re part of our identity. And while the events may come and go, the impact they create continues to grow. We invite you to stay involved, give where you can, and celebrate the power of coming together. Because when Livermore Leans In, lives are changed—and that’s something worth raising a glass to.