Solvang Man Leaves $200,000 to SYV Foundation

By The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation

The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation received a $200,000 bequest from the estate of Lloyd Dobney, formerly of Solvang. The funds will support community grants and other foundation operations, and a portion will be added to the foundation’s $5 million endowment

“We are inspired and grateful for this remarkable gift from Mr. Dobney,” says Debbie Jones, President of the Foundation Board of Directors. “His generosity will contribute to the essential financial support for community organizations that the Valley Foundation provides year after year.”

Born in Los Angeles, Lloyd G. Dobney served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War before attending California State University in Los Angeles.  He worked for AT&T for over 25 years as a technical engineering manager, and moved to Santa Ynez in 1983. His wife Ada passed in 2006, and Lloyd moved to Atterdag Village until he passed at age 92.  

Dobney’s estate also made contributions to the Friends of Library in Solvang and Solvang Humane Society.

“Remembering the Valley Foundation in your will is such an important and enduring gift,” added Anne Christensen, Executive Director of the foundation. “When one member of the community leaves assets to the Foundation, they ensure the entire community benefits for years to come.”

At its August meeting, the Valley Foundation also announced its quarterly grants to local organizations. Recipients include Angels Foster Care, Atterdag Village, Atterdag at Home Meals on Wheels, Rancho Alegre Camp, Nature Track Foundation, the SYV Children’s Museum, SYV Veggie Rescue, SYV Therapeutic Riding, United Boys and Girls Club of Santa Barbara, and the VNA Health Foundation.

The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation improves the lives of people in the Santa Ynez and Los Alamos Valleys by investing in programs that feed the poor, promote health, nurture seniors, challenge our youth and inspire the community to make a difference. 

The Valley Foundation is able to fulfil its mission thanks to the tax-deductible donations from members of the communities it serves. To create a donor advised fund or to discuss an estate gift, contact Executive Director Anne Christensen at 805-688-2991.