Assistance League of Santa Barbara celebrated its 73-year connection to Hillside — a residential home for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities — with joyful and loud Christmas caroling by some 20 Assistance League members dressed in holiday attire.

Led by program chair Ann Rudolph, clad in a reindeer sweater, Assistance League members carried on a long tradition of caroling for Hillside residents. Last year the event was scaled back due to the pandemic, but this year it came back in full force outside.

“They walked over with Santa Claus who lit the holiday lights of the display outside, and the excitement was palatable,” said Michael Padden-Rubin, Hillside director of development. “It was a tremendous showing.” Assistance League and Hillside share the same property on Veronica Springs Road.

Gail Campanella got everyone in the spirit of the evening with her lively accordion music. Hillside residents were bundled in sweaters, coats and blankets, and wore smiles of delight. The carolers also sang “Happy Birthday” to four beaming residents.

“Our evening of caroling for the residents was a very special event, a warm and wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season,” said Ann Rudolph.

Assistance League volunteers have raised more than $1.4 million for the purchase of critical supplies and equipment, as well as sharing in the expense of the physical therapy program to enhance the lives of Hillside residents. Assistance League volunteers serve as Secret Pals, celebrating birthdays and holidays, bringing in entertainment, playing bingo — and raising their voices in song for the holidays.

Along with its auxiliaries, Las Aletas and Assisteens, Assistance League of Santa Barbara’s 350 members volunteer 50,000 hours a year to improve the lives of local residents. The Assistance League Thrift Shop, at 1259 Veronica Springs Road, is the major source of funding for the programs. www.assistanceleaguesb.org.