The Joy of New Beginnings

LEAP News

August 2025

A Note from our Executive Director

Greetings!

When I was growing up, the first day of school was always exciting. We wore new clothes, got to meet our new teacher, and wondered who would become our new friends. The beginning of the school year is a time of potential and renewal, for children and for adults.

At LEAP, we are getting ready for the first day of school on August 20. I’m especially excited to let you know that we will be expanding our hours, opening at 7:30 AM in Goleta and at 7:00 AM in Lompoc. In all children’s centers, it’s a struggle to find enough qualified teachers. Despite that, we are figuring out how to meet the needs of our community.

When we face a new beginning, all things are possible. This month, we’re at the beginning of a new adventure. Who knows what joy and pain the next year will bring for our students, our families, our staff, and our community. I do know that whatever happens this year, LEAP will be here to support, care for, and nurture a resilient, connected community.

Warmly,

Lori Lander Goodman

Executive Director

Standing with Immigrant Families

Thank you to the City of Goleta for awarding LEAP funding to support our work with immigrant community members impacted by immigration enforcement. Your support helps us continue providing critical services and resources to those who need it most.

Support LEAP: Drop Off Food at the Unitarian Society of SB

Throughout August, the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara is hosting a food drive to support LEAP’s emergency food pantry. Drop off shelf-stable items to help local families facing food insecurity.

Location: 1535 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Dates: August 3-31, 2025

Hours: Sun-Thurs, 9am-4pm

Interested in adopting the pantry? Sign up here!

Meet Laura, our Community Engagement Specialist!

As LEAP’s Community Engagement Specialist, Laura builds meaningful connections between families, staff, and our agency.

“Working at LEAP has been more than a job—it’s been a calling and a passion that’s helped shape me into the person I am today. My mission is to continue learning to be the best leader I can be, while helping others build their confidence, because when we grow together, we rise together. I’m committed not only to leading, but to helping shape the next generation of leaders—because that’s how community continues to thrive.”

Thank you, Laura, for the heart and leadership you bring to LEAP every day.

Upcoming Webinar: Coping with Discrimination and Xenophobia

Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Time: 6:30 - 7:30 pm

Location: Zoom

Join us for the fifth session of LEAP’s wellness series! This session, Coping with Discrimination and Xenophobia, will address the emotional impact of discrimination, racism, and xenophobia by offering strategies for engaging in positive social activities, building a strong sense of self-worth and reducing feelings of marginalization.

This workshop is free and open to all!

Host a Diaper Drive for LEAP!

Diaper Need Awareness Week is September 15–21, and you can help by hosting a diaper drive for LEAP! Whether you team up with coworkers, friends, classmates, or your faith group, organizing a drive is a simple way to make a big impact. LEAP distributes over 6,000 free diapers every month to local families, and your support helps keep babies clean, dry, and healthy.

Many Ways to Give

Volunteer

Looking for a hands-on way to help the community? Volunteer at our monthly food distribution in Goleta. To sign up, visit our website.

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.

Donate

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