LEAP News

August 2026

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A Note from Our CEO


Greetings!


I recently visited our Children's Center and was struck by the remarkable artwork displayed in each classroom. On one wall, I found something special - a photo of each young artist, along with a little bit about them and their work.


"Kayla loves using bright colors and sponges. Her next project will feature a rainbow."


"Noah is interested in painting cars and trees. He loves to use his fingers when creating art."


It warmed my heart to see our students' creativity not just displayed, but celebrated - each child recognized as a real artist with their own style, interests, and creative process. They're being taken seriously. They're being respected.


That matters more than we often realize. Creativity isn't just an activity to fill time; it's a way children explore the world, express their feelings, and build confidence. And honestly, it's important for all of us - children and adults alike - to find ways to be creative and to appreciate creativity in others.


As we head into the new school year, I look forward to seeing how our students and teachers continue to express themselves through art, block building, dramatic play, and all the beautiful ways children make meaning of their world.


If you'd like to support our art curriculum, we always welcome donations of art supplies - they go quickly with so many young artists at work!



Warmly,



Lori Lander Goodman

Chief Executive Officer

A Limited-Edition Print Inspired by LEAP

We're so excited to share a special collaboration with artist Ali Mac, who created an original felt illustration inspired by LEAP! Signed prints are now available, with proceeds benefiting LEAP.


We're incredibly grateful to Ali for choosing to support our mission through her Felt for the Future initiative, which pairs her artwork with organizations making a meaningful impact.

For Art's Sake: LEAP Art Show

We had so much fun celebrating our young artists at LEAP's inaugural Art Show! 



The exhibit featured Process Art—a child-led approach that focuses on creativity, exploration, and self-expression rather than a perfect final product. Along the way, children build fine motor skills, confidence, imagination, persistence, and problem-solving skills while learning to trust their own ideas.

Host a Diaper Drive This September!

In recognition of National Diaper Need Awareness Week, we're looking for community partners to host diaper drives in support of LEAP's Diaper Bank. Every donation helps local families access an essential resource they need to keep their babies healthy and dry.


Interested? Contact DarcyB@leapcentralcoast.org to get started!

Learn Lifesaving Skills with LISTOS

Dates: Mondays, September 14–October 5 (final class held in person)

Time: 6:30–8:00 p.m.


Help your family prepare for the unexpected with LEAP's free LISTOS Individual and Family Disaster Preparedness Program. Over four weeks, you'll learn practical skills to prepare for emergencies, create a family emergency plan, respond to injuries, provide emotional support, and more.


To register, call Ana Maya at (805) 869-3303.

HOPE Building Block: Supportive Relationships

At LEAP, trusted relationships are at the heart of everything we do—and they're a key part of the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) framework. Whether through caring teachers in our Children's Centers or trained peer mentors in our NextLEAP Mentorship Program, we help children build meaningful connections with trusted adults. These relationships help children feel safe, valued, and supported, laying the foundation for confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging.

Diaper Packing

Join us on Wednesday, August 26th, from 10-11:30 AM to help pack diapers for local babies and families! Volunteers will help bundle, sort, and repackage diapers for families who need a little extra support. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a direct impact in our community while supporting LEAP’s Diaper Bank.

Many Ways to Give

Volunteer


Looking for a hands-on way to help the community? Visit our volunteer page for the latest opportunities


Become a Monthly Donor


$5, $10, or $25 a month makes a huge impact over time! Your monthly gift ensures a steady stream of resources, allowing us to plan and execute long-term projects and reach more families.


Donate Food or Diapers


Help hungry families by donating shelf stable food to our Emergency Food Pantry. Or donate diapers and wipes to our Diaper Bank so babies stay healthy and dry.


Contact Ana Maya to drop off these necessary supplies.


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