Napa Valley may be Sonoma’s more established neighbor, but that doesn’t mean it’s a heartless place. Among the bevy of festivals and auctions that mark the summer, not a few are devoted to charity.

We spoke with Garen Staglin, owner of Staglin Family Vineyard, who points out that “philanthropy is a robust activity here.” His family vineyard hosts the Music Festival for Mental Health, which has raised over $32 million for mental health research since its inception in 2001. Events include wine tasting, a gourmet dinner and, of course, live musicians such as soul singer Gladys Knight. That’s music to my ears. (September 8 www.music-festival.com)

Napa also hosts the long-running Auction Napa Valley, which features one-of-a-kind lots and includes dinners and tastings with local wine experts. The auction has given over $68 million for health care, housing, and other special projects since 1981. This year’s auction is on June 6-8, 2007; if you can’t make it in person check out the E-Auction at www.napavintners.com.