Helping Kids Find Their Strengths

When Diego first joined the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County last year, severe separation anxiety made each day a struggle. He clung to his mom, tears streaming, trying to bolt out the front door, too overwhelmed to join any activities.

“Through our programming and the support of our staff, Diego was able to build up his confidence,” says Taylor Swan, Chief Development Officer of United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County. “He’s now one of our student guest hosts – if a shy kid comes in, he takes care of it.”

Diego’s progress reflects a common experience at the Club, where children facing challenges find a safe, supportive space to grow. The Club becomes more than an after-school program – it’s a support system that helps children overcome fears, build resilience, learn skills, and provide stability for their families.

The Club engages youth through five key program areas: education and career, character and leadership, health and life skills, sports and fitness, and the arts. These programs offer dynamic, learning experiences that encourage kids to tap into their strengths, master essential skills and spur their empowerment.

Founded with the mission to enable all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens, the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County has supported youth since 1938.

Over the decades, the organization expanded into a countywide network with sites in Goleta, Carpinteria, Lompoc, Buellton, and Solvang. They also opened a 94-acre Campsite in 1988 in the Santa Ynez Valley.  

“We level the playing field so that children can have a childhood,” says Michael Baker, the Club’s Chief Executive Officer.

Baker says “many of the kids the Club serves face harsh realities in their daily lives that force them to grow up too quickly – worrying about bills, food, and housing as if they were already adults. Within the Boys & Girls Club, they are allowed to be kids, enjoy their childhood, and receive the tools they need to succeed in life,” Baker says.

Santa Barbara County ranks as the third highest county in California for student-age children who are homeless or houseless. “Seventy-three percent of our organization’s members qualify for the free or reduced lunch program at their local school,” Swan says. To tackle these challenges, the Club runs its Zero Hunger food program, offering healthy snacks and full meals after school and on Saturdays.

Scholarships are available for club membership, summer camps, and even transportation. But no child is ever turned away for financial reasons. 

“We focus on vulnerable kids. It’s a top priority for us to create an easy onboarding space for those who need access to what we offer: food, family, and safety,” says Swan.

Over the past year, Diego has transformed. He now chats comfortably with staff, helps new kids feel welcome and loves giving tours, proudly sharing all the things he enjoys at the Club. Diego’s mom, often calling in gratitude, shared how the Club’s patience and understanding have helped her through tough times. With support from the Club, she was able to return to work and continue her own education.

“The Club has become a vital part of their lives, offering unwavering support and a sense of community,” Swan says.