United Way of Santa Barbara

l-r Alexis de Tocqueville Society member Eleanor Simpson, with son Gary Simpson and daughter in law Diana Simpson

Beautiful weather graced another Leadership Reception at the stunning home of Marcia and Jim Wolfe. Over one hundred members of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society and Leadership Circle arrived to celebrate the second consecutive year of the group's raising over a million dollars. Leadership boasts 451 members who contribute to United Way of Santa Barbara County's Community Campaign.

Eleanor Simpson received the 2003 Alexis de Tocqueville Award for Outstanding Leadership Giving. Eleanor has been a part of United Way of Santa Barbara County for more than twenty years and her generosity to our community truly makes a difference. Tom Thomas, CEO of Santa Barbara Bank & Trust, was honored as the Outstanding Volunteer of Time, Talent & Treasure in Leadership Giving. Tom personifies Leadership and has proven himself invaluable to United Way of Santa Barbara County as a Volunteer, especially at United Way's Fun in the Sun program.

Merit Program musicians Daniel Sommerman and Sara Barber impressed our Leadership members with their skill and poise

The theme of the Reception revolved around the importance of Volunteerism and the opportunities available to participate in a number of United Way's programs like Fun In the Sun, Safe Summer For Kids and Pre-Kindergarten Institutes. Executive Director Paul Didier concluded the program by introducing two young violinists who had participated in a United Way music collaborative called the Merit Program.

Thank you again to Jim and Marcia Wolfe for a delightful afternoon and helping United Way salute Leadership members for their dedication, professionalism, and presence in the Santa Barbara Community.