Nov 28, 2023 | Featured Nonprofits
Edna donned her fanciest blouse and a bright blazer in anticipation of her favorite activity. Perched on the half-wall to await her chariot she kept her eyes glued to the entryway. At 89, she felt giddy as a schoolgirl. She heard the trishaw before she saw it....
Nov 21, 2023 | Featured Nonprofits
Giving Tuesday— the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving and the internationally recognized day to contribute to charity — is upon us. Unlike Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday invites us to improve our community by donating to causes that resonate with us. “I...
Oct 28, 2023 | Featured Nonprofits
Marsha Bailey worked hard all through her college years at Michigan State University striving toward her dream of one day becoming an art teacher. But soon after graduation she realized all the teaching positions were taken. There was no room for her. Schools did not...
Oct 28, 2023 | Featured Nonprofits
As each year draws to a close, I encourage organizations look back over the past months and make a list of their accomplishments. Most nonprofits are so focused on projects lying ahead that they forget to reflect on their successes. Yet, acknowledging triumphs can...
Oct 28, 2023 | Featured Nonprofits
Oscar Gutierrez always knew he wanted to serve his community, but he never dreamed that shifts in the election process and his unique connection with people would propel him to the dais as a member of the Santa Barbara City Council. Gutierrez was born and raised on...
Aug 19, 2023 | Featured Nonprofits
In 1973, Barney Melekian, our recently retired Santa Barbara Police Chief, began his first venture in his 50-year career in law enforcement. During the next 20 years, he worked patrol, including being part of the first locally funded dog handler team in California. He...