Coastal Roots Gives Back: Hosting Charitable Events That Make an Impact
Monterey’s sense of community is one of its strongest assets—and nothing brings people together like a shared cause and a shared meal. Whether it’s an elegant fundraising gala, a nonprofit luncheon, or a community mixer, charitable events have the power to uplift, inspire, and generate real change. When thoughtfully executed, these gatherings don’t just raise money—they build relationships and leave a lasting impression.
Coastal Roots Hospitality (Tarpy's, Montrio, Rio Grill and Coastal Roots Events & Catering) is proud to support local causes through exceptional food, service, and heartfelt collaboration. With decades of experience and a mission rooted in community, we believe in the power of hospitality to serve beyond the plate.
Supporting the Community Through Purpose-Driven Events
More Than a Meal
Charitable events offer more than fundraising opportunities—they’re a chance to bring people together in a meaningful way. When guests enjoy a beautifully prepared menu, attentive service, and a thoughtfully designed experience, they feel valued and inspired. These details help shape the emotional connection between your organization and its supporters.
Whether it’s an auction dinner, awards brunch, or donor appreciation night, the event should reflect your mission while creating a welcoming and polished atmosphere.
Food That Reflects the Cause
Menus can be crafted to suit the tone and focus of the event—simple and comforting, elegant and refined, or playful and celebratory. All while using local, seasonal ingredients that make the most of what Monterey County has to offer.
Examples of what we might serve:
- Fresh Dungeness crab cakes with lemon aioli
- Watermelon and feta salad with mint vinaigrette
- Roasted tri-tip with chimichurri
- Grilled vegetable platters with herbed couscous
- Individual berry tarts or chocolate mousse cups for dessert
Our team can create buffet-style stations, plated dinners, passed appetizers, or custom cocktail pairings—all tailored to your guest list and fundraising goals.
The “Pick It Up — Pay It Forward” Initiative
Giving Back with Every Takeaway
Launched during the pandemic, our “Pick It Up — Pay It Forward” program was created to meet growing needs across Monterey County. This initiative allows guests who place takeout orders from our restaurants to support local nonprofits—turning a meal into a meaningful donation.
The program has supported dozens of local organizations by providing:
- Meals for families in need through food bank donations
- Advocacy and aid for survivors of sexual violence
- Funding for mental health support and crisis services
- Technology access and digital literacy through community grants
Organizations We’ve Helped Serve
Over the years, the initiative has benefited a range of incredible nonprofits including:
- Community Partnership for Youth
- Monterey Children’s Museum
- Monterey County Food Bank
- Kinship Center
- CASA of Monterey County
- Monterey Rape Crisis Center
- Loaves, Fishes & Computers
Each of these organizations plays a vital role in supporting children, families, and underserved communities throughout the region.
What’s Ahead for 2025
As part of our continued commitment, six new nonprofits will be selected for the 2025 “Pick It Up — Pay It Forward” program. One organization will benefit every two months, receiving direct financial support and increased community visibility. It's a small way to make a big impact—and we're proud to help drive this work forward.
Event Types That Support Local Missions
Fundraising Galas
A classic choice for major nonprofit organizations. These events offer a chance to celebrate accomplishments, highlight mission-driven work, and invite guests to give generously. Coastal Roots provides seamless planning support, elegant menus, and professional service to ensure the experience reflects the gravity of the cause.
Donor Dinners and Recognition Events
Whether it’s a private wine-paired dinner or a casual rooftop reception, honoring your donors with an exceptional culinary experience shows genuine appreciation. These gatherings are an opportunity to build loyalty and deepen relationships.
Community Celebrations and Awareness Campaigns
Events designed to engage the broader community—like summer picnics, open houses, or walk-and-talk mixers—can still feel polished with high-quality food and thoughtful planning. Our catering team ensures that even relaxed events have a professional touch.
School and Youth Organization Events
We’ve worked with local schools, mentorship programs, and youth-serving nonprofits to deliver impactful event catering that works within budget and time constraints. Whether it’s a scholarship banquet or an end-of-year celebration, our team is proud to serve the next generation of community leaders.
Planning with Coastal Roots
Venues That Support Your Vision
We work closely with many beautiful and accommodating event venues across the Monterey Peninsula, from oceanside estates and vineyards to cozy community centers and historic buildings. Whether your event is large or intimate, indoor or outdoors, we help find a location that suits your needs.
Service that Reflects Your Values
Every event is handled with care, from the setup to the final toast. Our service staff is trained to work quietly behind the scenes while maintaining a warm and welcoming presence. Whether it’s coordinating speeches, setting up silent auction tables, or managing a plated service for 200 guests, we ensure the logistics never take attention away from the mission.
Menus That Make an Impression
We don’t believe in cookie-cutter catering. Every event is a chance to reflect your cause’s identity and tone—whether that means rustic farm tables and family-style platters or sleek trays of seasonal hors d’oeuvres. Guests leave feeling nourished, connected, and inspired.
Let’s Celebrate What Matters
When charitable events are planned with heart and intention, they create more than memories—they build momentum. At Coastal Roots Hospitality, we’re honored to support the causes that uplift Monterey County and make this community stronger every day.
Whether you’re organizing a benefit dinner, nonprofit luncheon, or an awareness campaign with a catered component, our team is here to help execute it with professionalism, creativity, and compassion.
Contact Coastal Roots Hospitality today to plan a charitable event that leaves a lasting impact. We are proud to serve the Monterey, CA community with purpose and pride.
