“United Way has grown into an entire suite of programs, from award-winning academic initiatives such as Fun in the Sun, to childcare scholarships, rental and utility support, and tax preparation assistance. They work with anyone and everyone – from school districts to philanthropy to business and to government. They’re there to step in when other can’t and are always ready to do so as soon as our community needs it.”

“Over the past several years, the County has had to respond to several major disasters, including the 2017 Thomas Fire, the January Debris Flow, and most recently, the COVID-10 pandemic, with its disastrous economic impact on low-income households. United Way of Santa Barbara County has successfully developed trusted relationships across government, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors to develop strategies and respond to community needs in a humane and compassionate way. We look forward to continued collaboration.”

“United Way has completely transformed the way we are able to have impact here in Santa Barbara. I partner with them because they’re always there for me. Between their Fun in the Sun program in the summer and then an entire year of tutoring after school, really bridges a gap in students’ academic careers. This partnership with United Way completely changed these children’s support system for a secondary system and their future.”

“Our partnership with United Way allows us to support residents who may be falling through the cracks during a disaster. As a government agency, we’re partnering with United Way to really enhance what we can provide as a government agency to support the community. Our county has had an amazing partnership with United Way, both in blue skies and grey skies, and we continue to build that. We tap into United Way as a partner to help our residents to build their resiliency and help them recover with the resources they need. It’s a partnership I haven’t seen in other counties and it's so appreciated.”