United Way of Santa Barbara County CEO Steve Ortiz with members of the Cottage Health team at United Way’s 96th Annual Awards. (Courtesy photo)

United Way of Santa Barbara County (UWSBC) and its partners from throughout the community gathered for the 96th Annual Awards Celebration May 8 at the Santa Barbara Hilton Beachfront Resort.

Local volunteers, businesses, schools and organizations were recognized for their contributions to UWSBC’s work in the community during 2018.

“Everyone in this room, whether you take home an award tonight or not, has made a significant contribution to the Santa Barbara community,” said United Way of Santa Barbara County CEO Steve Ortiz.

“We would not be able to impact the lives of local children, families, and seniors without the tremendous support of our partners. Thank you for continuing to give back and helping make Santa Barbara County such a wonderful place to live and work,” he said.

The 2019 award winners are:

United for Literacy Partner of the Year: Diana Rigby – Carpinteria Unified School District

Community Impact Partner of the Year: Family Service Agency

Fun in the Sun Partner of the Year: Santa Barbara Unified School District Nutritional Services

Spirit of Giving Award: AGIA Affinity Services

Spotlight Award: Community West Bank

Extraordinary Newcomer Award: Procore

Live United Award: UC Santa Barbara

Most Outstanding Campaign: Cottage Health

Outstanding Leadership in the Workplace: County of Santa Barbara

Outstanding Employee Campaign Manager: Mei-Ling Fry – AGIA Affinity Services

For more information, visit www.unitedwaysb.org/awards.

— Andy Silverman for United Way of Santa Barbara County.