Season of Thanks
The expression of gratitude is a practice well integrated into
AHA!’s work with teens, teachers, and staff.
In this season of thanks, we’d like to express our deep gratitude for the generosity of the supporters and partners who make our work possible.
With teen anxiety at an all-time extreme, and with the stakes seemingly higher
than ever, we are determined to use expertise as Santa Barbara’s leading SEL consultants to make our community feel safe, seen, celebrated, and
emotionally connected . If you are moved by our mission,
please remember us in your end of year giving .
Please click SB Gives logo above to donate now
Santa Barbara Gives
AHA! has again been chosen as a featured nonprofit for Santa Barbara Gives , a joint Fund for Santa Barbara and SB Independent campaign.
All donations made through this platform to AHA! benefit the increased number of Parent Groups AHA! is offering this year. Teens and teachers are not alone in experiencing unprecedented levels of stress—parents are confronted with situations many feel unprepared to address. AHA! Parent Groups provide guardians with tools from the AHA! Method to help them stay connected to their teens and effectively navigate this exciting ⎯ and, often, challenging ⎯ chapter.
Littlest Little Farm
Inspired by the documentary Biggest Little Farm (a MUST see!) and mentored by the creators of Apricot Lane Farms, Molly & John Chester , AHA! has created our very own “Littlest Little Farm.” Friends of AHA! have generously donated their land for this unique youth-driven project. Luke Loggins , a knowledgeable horticulturist and gifted teacher, is heading a rotating group of AHA! teens with a beautiful embodiment of the AHA! spirit. Participating youth will learn to grow and harvest seasonal vegetables and develop an understanding of all that goes into creating and sustaining a collaborative small farm, all while deepening their connection to nature.
If you’d like to support this effort, here are ways to help:
  • Call Matt at Island Seed and Feed (805-967-5262) and reference The Little Farm AHA!; then, charge an amount over the phone. He's giving us a generous discount and in turn we are supporting a very fine local business. 
  • Buy a gift card to ACE Home Improvement or Home Depot to help us buy a shed to house our increasing farm inventory.
AHA! in West Palm Beach
In November, AHA! Programs Director Melissa Lowenstein and Grant Writer Jenna Tico attended the 2019 Wallace Foundation PSELI Convening in West Palm Beach, Florida! Given the theme of this year’s convening, “Deepening Adult Practice,” AHA! was approached to lead a breakout session on our signature Method of relationship repair, clearing, and staff culture. Melissa and Jenna also chose to incorporate a practice of embodied mindfulness, which was a hit with teachers and administrators alike. It was also an excellent networking opportunity, and hopefully the first of many similar experiences to take AHA! on the road!
NoVo Foundation Conference
AHA! was honored to present at the NoVo Foundation’s yearly conference for educators who are implementing SEL across schools and districts .

This year, alumni facilitators Viri Barrera and Perla Sandoval were featured as breakout session presenters. Over 30 educators attended their workshop, and they were received with exceptional praise and gratitude for bringing both youthful energy and professionalism to their presentation.

Additionally, AHA! Founders Jennifer Freed and Rendy Freedman were invited to be panelists at the NoVo keynote presentation, which focused on the intersection of nature and social-emotional learning. Following the presentation, a full house of 350 educators participated in meaningful discussions focusing on the importance of reconnecting young people with their true nature by integrating SEL with wilderness and camping experiences and farming initiatives.
Art Exhibit
This month, Assemblymember Monique Limón has adorned her Santa Barbara Office with artwork of youth in AHA! programs. On November 7, the community was invited to an evening reception celebrating these creative endeavors. The show featured art created by participants in AHA! summer and fall groups, Carpinteria Middle School, and Rincon High School.
Our programs happen ONLY with your support!