During the Great Depression, the Santa Barbara Foundation supported outdoor summer concerts at what was then known as Plaza Del Mar. The public concerts raised community morale during the hard economic times.
The Santa Barbara Foundation (SBF) exists for one reason – to improve the lives of the residents and the vibrancy of the unique and diverse communities throughout Santa Barbara County.
We do that by mobilizing our county’s best resources – our people, our knowledge, and our desire for change and improvement. As a leader and partner, we gather people to address the communities’ most pressing needs. Our goal is to harness the intellectual and philanthropic resources available and invest in solutions to the problems that challenge our community.
For 94 years, our donors have entrusted us to invest their charitable dollars with empathy and an eye toward significant and measurable impact. Our work is only possible through our donors and partners, who support initiatives ranging from the essential necessities of everyday life to the innovative programs that will lead us collectively to a better future.
At SBF, our team and our organizational culture are essential to the efficiency and impact of our work. We value and foster a workplace that is inclusive, accountable, and innovative. By advancing a happy and healthy workspace, we work better together.
SBF was honored as 2020 Citizen of the Year by the Santa Barbara Downtown Organization and was recognized as one of Pacific Coast Business Times Best Places to Work in the Central Coast. We humbly accepted these honors on behalf of our communities across Santa Barbara County. Thank you!
The Santa Barbara Foundation continues to build a team dedicated to our tradition of improving the quality of life in Santa Barbara County.
Our commitment to you is to offer clear, transparent information about our financial position and activities as we continue to further the long-term vision and mission of the foundation through solid financial practices. Our Audited Financial Statements and IRS Form 990 are available to view. We encourage you to contact us with any specific questions.
Contact our team to help you with your specific needs.
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