Diana Ornelas, director of the Carpinteria Club with the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, has been named District 1 Woman of the Year by the Santa Barbara County Commission for Women.

The annual award recognizes women across Santa Barbara County who are making meaningful contributions to their communities through leadership, service and advocacy.

Ornelas was honored for her work creating and leading safe after-school programming that supports youth and families in Carpinteria.

Programs like those offered at the Boys & Girls Club provide a safe and welcoming place for young people after school, while also helping families access reliable childcare that is something that continues to be a challenge for many working parents, particularly women, the club said.

“At the Carpinteria Club, Ornelas and her team work every day to create an environment where kids can get homework help, explore new interests, participate in enrichment activities, and build positive relationships with mentors and peers,” the club said. “Her leadership has helped ensure that local youth have a safe place to go after school and that families in the community have the support they need.”

For more about the United Boys & Girls Club of Santa Barbara County, visit www.unitedbg.org.