A Note from our Executive Director
Dear friend,
June has been a month for gathering together in celebration and in community. After the last few years I have immense appreciation for opportunities to hug, laugh, and share a meal with friends, family, and new acquaintances. Feeling seen, welcomed, and supported by our community is vital for our well-being.
This month, our LEAP families and staff spent time dancing, eating and playing games at our June Family Fiesta. We also learned about the significance of Juneteenth and had a wonderful meal that celebrated this holiday – which you will learn more about below. We thanked our staff and made time to enjoy one another at our annual staff picnic. I was delighted to participate in the raising of the Pride flag at Goleta City Hall, and to attend the Santa Barbara Juneteenth Nourish the People block party. In addition, many families are celebrating graduations this month. Joy abounds!
One of LEAP’s core values is joy. We believe that everybody deserves to experience joy and that we need to be intentional about cultivating and recognizing joyful moments. What brought you joy this past month? I wish you a joyful summer.
Lori Goodman
Executive Director
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Introducing our new Director Of Development: Kara Shoemaker!
Meet Kara Shoemaker, our new Director Of Development! Kara moved to Santa Barbara in 2007 and like many UCSB Gauchos, fell in love with the community. With a strong desire to drive positive change, she has dedicated the past 12 years to the nonprofit sector.
"Santa Barbara County is a stunning and incredibly diverse place. There is a lot of beauty but also a lot of challenges for those who live here. I am honored to join this incredible organization and be a part of this work to make Santa Barbara County a place where all can thrive."
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We are LEAP: Learn, Engage, Advocate, Partner.
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Juneteenth Family Fiesta
This month, our Family Fiesta theme was Juneteenth! Juneteenth is an important day in American history, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It is also a celebration of Black culture and joy. Our Children's Center Chef, Matthew, crafted a spread of red-themed foods, representing sacrifice, transition, and power.
A special shoutout to the Santa Barbara Dance Institute for leading our multigenerational dance!
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Safety Town at the Children's Center
Safety Town came to visit our Children’s Center! During this five-day session, our pre-kindergarten students learned how to safely cross the street, follow traffic signals, dial 9-1-1 and other valuable safety concepts through role play and interactive lessons. We are so proud of our pre-kindergarteners for participating!
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Harvest of the Month
Did you know that red and green cabbage have a fascinating history Cabbage has been cultivated for over 4,000 years, making it one of the oldest known vegetables! But that's not all—these veggies are nutritional powerhouses too. Bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, red and green cabbage contribute to overall well-being. Their high fiber content supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
This asian slaw is packed with flavor, freshness, vibrance, and the perfect crunch.
Read the full recipe here
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Bingo Fundraiser
We are so excited for a fun filled night at Old Town Coffee! Mark your calendars for July 12th from 6pm - 9pm.
Test your luck to win prizes from local vendors and enjoy food and drinks from a food truck. Proceeds from the event will be donated to LEAP. We can't wait to see you there!
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LEAP needs your support as we work hard to support our community. We’ve stepped up and we need your help to continue. Please consider a donation to LEAP’s General Donation Fund to help us continue to provide the caring, proactive and flexible support our community needs.
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Be a diaper champion by sponsoring the cost of diapers for local families. Diapers are one of the most consistent requests from our families at our FRC. Disposable diapers can cost as much as $100 per month per baby so every contribution makes a big difference.
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LEAP is hiring! Are you interested in serving the children and families of the Goleta Valley? We have several program positions available including:
If you or someone you know is interested in joining our team click here
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LEAP: Learn • Engage • Advocate • Partner
Mailing Address
PO Box 1332
Goleta, CA 93116
Administrative offices
5638 Hollister Ave Suite, 320
Goleta, CA 93117
Children's Center
6842 Phelps Road
Goleta, CA 93117
805-968-0488
After School and Summer Enrichment Programs
Isla Vista Elementary
El Camino Elementary
La Patera Elementary
805-968-1624
Family Resource Center
5638 Hollister Ave Suite 200
Goleta, CA 93117
805-685-6900
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