Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Assistance League: Supporting Local Youth, Seniors & Community Since 1948
Founded in 1948, Assistance League is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives through hands-on service and community programs. Our all-volunteer structure, with over 350 members and two auxiliaries, allows us to efficiently fund and implement 15 philanthropic initiatives that support youth, seniors, health, and community outreach across Santa Barbara County. Our thrift shop, entirely staffed by volunteers, serves as our primary funding source, enabling us to maintain low operating costs while maximizing community impact. With a legacy of local service spanning more than 75 years, we remain committed to addressing evolving community needs through education, compassion, and practical support. Our programs include school clothing assistance, senior luncheons, dental health services, and emergency outreach, all sustained by generous donations and community participation.We operate three facilitiesincluding a thrift shop, administrative offices, and a multi-purpose buildingwhile maintaining transparency and fiscal responsibility. Our board of directors and committee chairs are elected annually by members, ensuring democratic governance and community representation. As a tax-exempt organization under EIN 95-2094202, we provide donors with tax-deductible contribution opportunities that directly benefit local residents. Our Auxiliaries, including Community Friends Auxiliary and TeenServe, expand our reach through flexible volunteer opportunities for adults and students. Every purchase in our thrift shop and every donated item strengthens our ability to deliver meaningful, sustainable support to Santa Barbara residents.
Services
Thrift Shop
Youth Programs
Senior Services
Health & Wellness
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1948
Highlights and features
- We have operated continuously in Santa Barbara since 1948 with proven community impact
- Our all-volunteer structure ensures 92% of funds directly support local programs
- Donations to our thrift shop are tax-deductible and sustain community services
- We implement 15 targeted programs addressing specific local needs
- Our Auxiliaries provide volunteer opportunities for all age groups
Services
Thrift Shop
Our volunteer-staffed thrift shop offers gently used clothing, home goods, and unique finds while supporting local programs. Donations from community members and businesses fund this operation, with all proceeds directly benefiting Santa Barbara residents through education, health, and senior initiatives. Shopping here provides affordable options while contributing to meaningful community impact.
Youth Programs
We provide school clothing, college scholarships, and foster youth support through initiatives like Student Clothing Connection and Teen Clothing Connection. These programs remove financial barriers for students while promoting confidence and academic success. Our efforts serve over 1,000 local youth annually across multiple school districts in Santa Barbara County.
Senior Services
Our senior programs include monthly luncheons, Faux Prom events, and isolation prevention initiatives. These services offer social connection, dignity, and practical support for older adults. Through Bear HUGS and Operation BookShelf, we deliver comfort items and educational materials to homebound seniors throughout the region.
Health & Wellness
We address health needs through dental care programs, disability support services, and medical equipment donations. Santa Barbara Smiles provides dental treatment for underserved individuals, while our historical medical donations continue improving local healthcare access. These initiatives focus on preventative care and essential health resources.
Community Outreach
Our outreach efforts include emergency comfort bear distribution, nonprofit resource sharing, and intergenerational activities. The Kids on the Block puppet program educates young children about safety and inclusion. These initiatives respond to both immediate crises and ongoing community needs with compassionate, hands-on solutions.
Questions
What types of items can I donate to your thrift shop?
We accept gently used clothing, home goods, books, toys, and furniture during our donation hours Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Are donations to Community Friends of Santa Barbara tax-deductible?
Yes, all donations to our nonprofit organization are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law as we operate under EIN 95-2094202.
How can teens get involved with your organization?
Teens can join TeenServe to earn community service hours through program participation, event planning, and creating their own philanthropic projects benefiting local residents.
What areas do your programs serve?
Our programs serve all of Santa Barbara County, including Goleta, Carpinteria, and the surrounding communities through education, health, and senior support initiatives.
Do you have volunteer opportunities for adults?
Yes, our Community Friends Auxiliary offers flexible volunteer opportunities for adults with monthly evening meetings and various program support roles available year-round.
How are program recipients selected for assistance?
We collaborate with local schools, healthcare providers, and social service agencies to identify individuals and families in need throughout Santa Barbara County.
