Rotary Club of Atascadero and Habitat for Humanity SLO County Partner to Build Imaginative Places for Kids

Atascadero, Calif. – June 20, 2025 — In a touching act of community collaboration and creativity, the

Rotary Club of Atascadero and Habitat for Humanity SLO County (Habitat SLO) came together to build

more than just structures—they built joy, imagination, and cherished childhood memories.

The two organizations recently completed a special project: the design and construction of two

handcrafted playhouses for local children in the Atascadero community. These one-of-a-kind

playhouses, lovingly built and painted by volunteers, were created to spark creativity and provide safe,

whimsical places for children to play and dream.

One of the playhouses features a blue, white, and green color scheme, playfully adorned with cheerful

little bugs and critters. The second bursts with pink, white, and purple hues, beautifully detailed with

delicate, hand-painted flowers.

“This was such a joyful project for everyone involved,” said Gaby Romo, Incoming President of the

Rotary Club of Atascadero. “Our mission has always been to be deeply connected to our community,

and projects like this remind us of the power of small gestures that make a big impact.”

Volunteers from the Rotary Club painted, assembled and decorated the playhouses, each contributing

their time, creativity, and care. The result is two enchanting spaces that reflect the vibrant spirit of

childhood and the heart of Atascadero’s service-driven community.

“We are so grateful to the Rotary Club of Atascadero for their generosity and hands-on commitment to

this project,” said Dawn Smith, Director of Development for Habitat SLO. “Thanks to their support, two

local families now have something truly special in their own backyards. The volunteers brought so much

heart to the build—it’s a beautiful example of community coming together to create joy for others.”

While Habitat SLO is best known for building affordable homes for families, the Playhouse Program

highlights their broader commitment to building hope and joy — values that are also central to the

Rotary Club’s community vision.

“Partnering with Habitat SLO allowed us to combine our strengths and create something truly

meaningful for two deserving children,” said Ken Weather, Club Executive Secretary and Membership

Chair. “These playhouses are small in size but immense in joy.”The Rotary Club of Atascadero continues to serve the Central Coast with a hands-on, heart-forward

approach. Together with Habitat for Humanity SLO County, they’ve brought to life a project that not

only gives children a place to play, but also reminds us all of the beauty of kindness and teamwork.

Community members are invited to nominate local families to receive a playhouse. Nominations are

accepted year-round at habitatslo.org, and sponsors are always needed to fund materials and supplies.

The Playhouse Build Program also serves as a powerful team-building opportunity for businesses, civic

groups, and clubs looking to give back in a tangible, family-focused way.

To nominate a family, learn more about sponsoring a Playhouse Build, or view a short video about the

program, visit habitatslo.org.

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About Habitat for Humanity SLO County

Habitat for Humanity SLO County is a non-profit organization that brings people together to build

homes, communities, and hope. Habitat SLO County began building homes in 2003 and has completed

26 homes from Cambria to Grover Beach.

Since 1997, we have built, repaired, and rehabilitated houses throughout San Luis Obispo County. We

believe in a world where everyone has a decent place to live. By building and improving homes, we

create strong and stable communities. Habitat for Humanity SLO County strives to make decent,

sustainable, and affordable housing a reality for all.

About the Rotary Club of Atascadero

A proud chapter of Rotary International, the Rotary Club of Atascadero is dedicated to serving the

community through projects that uplift, inspire, and connect. From youth outreach to international

service, the club believes in creating lasting positive change.