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.
United Boys & Girls of Santa Barbara County
unitedbg.org
Chief Development Officer: Taylor Swan
(805) 681-1315
Mission
The United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County believes that every kid deserves a great future, and provides the stepping stones that put every kid on the path to unlocking their potential.
Begin to Build a Relationship
We know you care about where your money goes and how it is used. Connect with this organization’s leadership in order to begin to build this important relationship. Your email will be sent directly to this organization’s Director of Development and/or Executive Director.
Uniting Makes Us Stronger
As a long-time supporter of the United Boys & Girls Clubs, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative impact these programs have on our community. The dedication and passion of the staff create an environment where every child feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Whether it’s providing a safe space after school, offering academic support, or fostering creativity through arts and sports, the Club is truly changing lives. Investing in the United Boys & Girls Clubs is more than just philanthropy—it’s a commitment to the future of our children and the strength of our community.
Help Kids Reach Their Potential
The United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County is changing lives and helping kids reach success as leaders, learners, and creators.
•$40/year gives one child a full-year Club membership, opening doors to education, character-building, and the arts.
•$2,500 sponsors a child for a year with tutoring, meals, transportation, and life-changing experiences.
•Bigger gifts fund critical upgrades like gym renovations, keeping our spaces vibrant and safe.
“Your support is more than a donation – it’s a chance to shape a brighter future,” says Michael Baker, Chief Executive Officer.
Board of Directors
Nicholas Behrman, Chairperson
Janyce Creery, Vice Chairperson
Travis Ortega, Treasurer
Louise Cruz, Secretary
Marcos Alvaro
Eric Beecher
Jim Crook
Carol Del Ciello
David Edelman
Andrea Keefer
Mark Korte-Nahabedian
Mike Lopez
Luis Mendez
Peter Muzinich
Jeff Omdahl
Eloy Ortega
John Petote
Omead Poure
Javier Quezada
Rich Ridgway
David Shea
Jim Turner
Tony Vallejo
Brandon Vallin