Notes from the Gas Station

IVRPD Newsletter

March 2026 Newsletter

Greetings! Welcome to our monthly newsletter from all of us here at Isla Vista Recreation & Park District. We’re excited to be sharing updates, news, staff spotlights, and meeting notices from the Park District.

What’s Inside

Special Board Meeting March 11th

Forward Ever, Backward Never Event Recap

Pop-Up Pantry and Resource Fair

Isla Vista Narcan Distribution

IVRPD Spring Events Calendar

Special Board Meeting Announcement

March 11th

Foward Ever, Backward Never Event Recap!

Our Forward ever, Backward Never event was a huge success, welcoming community members to celebrate Black History Month together. Activities included live music from The Rahkas, a spoken word poetry program, drum circles, trivia games, and a DJ performance. Click the links below to view press coverage from the event:

Daily Nexus: IVRPD holds 5th annual ‘Forward Ever, Backward Never’ Black History Month celebration | The Daily Nexus

The Independent: 'Forward Ever, Backward Never' Honors Elroy Pinks and Celebrates Black Culture in Isla Vista - The Santa Barbara Independent

Keyt.com: “Forward Ever Backward Never” Celebrates 5th Year of Black History Tradition in Isla Vista | News Channel 3-12

Pop-Up Pantry and Resource Fair

Please join the AS Food Bank and UCSB Thrive for this month's Pop Up Pantry and Resource Fair at Estero Park on Tuesday, February 24th from 2-4pm. Stop by for free produce and get connected with basic needs resources, including CalFresh enrollment services! This event is open to everyone, including UCSB students and Isla Vista community members. Families are encouraged to attend!

Ilsa Vista Narcan Distribution

IVRPD Spring Events Calendar

Park Rental Inquiries Changes

Isla Vista Recreation & Parks District is changing its park rental inquiry protocols. From now on please request and mail all park rental inquiries to ivrpd@ivparks.org. Thank you for your understanding!