The Heffernan Foundation, the charitable arm of Heffernan Group, has announced a series of community events for 2026 aimed at raising funds and awareness for causes including breast cancer research, education, and food insecurity.
The foundation will kick off the season with its annual Kentucky Derby Party at Frankie’s – Pier 40 in San Francisco. Guests can support Heffernan’s Breast Cancer Walk Team and the foundation’s ongoing community initiatives.
Later in the year, participants can take part in the Breast Cancer Walk in San Diego, which offers one- to three-day walking experiences. The event raises awareness and provides support for breast cancer research.
The foundation will also host its 5th Annual Tuscan Fundraiser at Vin Antico in San Rafael. Chefs Mike Heffernan and John Prichard Jr. will curate an Italian-inspired menu featuring handpicked Italian wines. Proceeds will benefit the foundation’s local community programs.
“These events reflect our commitment to creating meaningful community engagement while supporting important causes,” said Michelle Lonaker-Lavine, executive director of Heffernan Foundation. “From festive gatherings to impactful walks, we invite everyone to participate, celebrate, and help make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.”
The 2026 events follow an active stretch of philanthropic activity by the foundation in the second half of 2025.
In June 2025, the foundation announced the Frank and Lenore Heffernan Scholarship, a three-year initiative that awarded five one-time $20,000 scholarships annually, for a total investment of $300,000 across 15 recipients. The program was open to students at ICA Cristo Rey Academy in San Francisco, Cristo Rey De La Salle High School in Oakland, and Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School.
The following month, in July 2025, the foundation marked the 20th anniversary of the Garee Lee Smith Scholarship Program, established in memory of one of Heffernan’s earliest employees. Since its inception, the program has distributed more than $865,000 in scholarship funds. In 2025, the foundation expanded the program from five annual awards of $5,000 each to 12 awards of $10,000 each.
The foundation’s mission focuses on changing futures through access to education, reducing homelessness and food insecurity through nonprofit collaboration, and promoting community and employee engagement. Each year, it supports nonprofits working in education, shelter, and food insecurity through a grant program, with awards ranging from $2,500 to $25,000.
More information and event registration are available at heffernanfoundation.org.
