ECHO’s Long Walk Home raises over $70,000 for homeless services

By Camille DeVaul · Thu Oct 02 2025

14th annual fundraiser in Atascadero unites more than 200 community members in support of shelter, meals, and resources for unhoused individuals and families on the Central Coast

ATASCADERO — More than 200 community members gathered on Saturday, Sept. 20, for the 14th Annual Long Walk Home, a fundraising event benefiting El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) and its mission to provide shelter, services, and support for individuals and families experiencing homelessness on the Central Coast.

The walk began at ECHO’s Atascadero campus, located at 6370 Atascadero Ave., where participants checked in before setting out on a symbolic journey through downtown. The annual walk highlights the challenges of homelessness and serves as a reminder that the road back to stability is often long and difficult.

“The Long Walk Home Fundraiser is more than just a walk — it’s a powerful statement about the journey out of homelessness. Each step represents the long and challenging road that individuals and families must take to return to safe, stable housing,” ECHO Development Manager Stephanie Potter told Atascadero News. “We walk together as a united community: ECHO staff, board members, volunteers, donors, sponsors, current residents, and program graduates. Side by side, we symbolize the collective support it takes — compassion, resources, and encouragement — for people to rebuild their lives and succeed. This event raises vital awareness about the complexity of homelessness and reminds us that no one should have to walk that road alone.”

Following the walk, attendees returned to the campus to enjoy a community celebration complete with a barbecue lunch, live music, and fellowship. The event not only raised funds for ECHO’s programs but also provided an opportunity for the community to come together in a show of compassion and solidarity.

This year, ECHO surpassed its fundraising goal, bringing in more than $70,000. The funds will directly support the organization’s daily operations, including its 130 shelter beds and meal program that provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner for residents. Beyond food and shelter, proceeds ensure access to case management and wraparound services designed to help individuals and families achieve long-term stability.

“We are thrilled to share that we raised over $70,000 — surpassing our goal,” Potter said. “This incredible achievement was made possible by the overwhelming support of our walkers, community, and generous sponsors.”

The 2025 Long Walk Home was also notable for its surge in business and organizational sponsorships. Thirty-eight sponsors contributed to this year’s event — 10 more than the previous year.

“The growth in community support is nothing short of inspiring, and we are so grateful to be part of such a compassionate and committed community,” said Potter.

For over two decades, ECHO has operated as a lifeline for unhoused individuals and families across the Central Coast. The organization’s services include emergency shelter, case management, job readiness training, and connections to long-term housing solutions.

As attendees concluded the day with music, food, and celebration, the message of the walk was clear: when a community comes together, no one has to face the journey out of homelessness alone.

For more information on ECHO, visit echoshelter.org

Feature Image: More than 200 people who took part in the 14th annual ECHO Long Walk Home pose in front of the Atascadero Administration building during the event Sept. 20. Photo by Rick Evans/ATN