The Solvang Senior Center’s new home will be named Elings Square in recognition of a major $1 million gift from Dr. Virgil Elings, a renowned physicist, entrepreneur and philanthropist.
Elings Square, scheduled to open in mid-2026, will serve as a welcoming hub where seniors can gather, connect and thrive.
This marks the first building in the Santa Ynez Valley to bear Elings’ name — a lasting testament to his extraordinary generosity and deep commitment to the well-being of the region, Senior Center officials said.
“Naming this space for Dr. Elings underscores the profound difference one individual can make,” said Linda Johansen, capital campaign co-chair. “His leadership gift, along with other major donations, ensures that this new building will be a place of warmth, vitality, and joy for generations to come.”
Elings is recognized across Santa Barbara County for his visionary contributions to health, science, education and recreation. His philanthropic impact includes:
• $4 million to establish the Elings Oncology Building at Ridley-Tree Cancer Center, plus multi-million-dollar contributions to Sansum Clinic for the Elings Pavilion and Elings Eye Center.
• Multi-million-dollar gifts to UC Santa Barbara, Iowa State University, and Grand View University, each resulting in a building bearing his name.
• A $5+ million gift to support Cottage Hospital and name its Santa Barbara lobby.
• Funding free colonoscopy programs for uninsured residents, earning him Philanthropist of the Year in Santa Barbara County.
• $1.5 million to purchase land to expand Elings Park, featuring fields, trails, a BMX track, and paragliding areas.
• Ongoing support for UCSB, Elings Park, United Boys and Girls Clubs, and the Dos Pueblos Engineering Academy.
“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Elings for believing in our mission and helping make our growth possible,” said Ellen Albertoni, executive director of the Senior Center.
Since 1978, the Solvang Senior Center a 501(c)3 nonprofit has served as a welcoming space for older adults in the Santa Ynez Valley. Its mission is to help older adults live vital, independent lives through programs that nourish the body, mind and spirit.
The center’s offerings include fitness classes, wellness workshops, social and creative activities, nutritious meals, and essential resources, such as free AARP tax preparation, to support seniors’ day-to-day lives.
Construction is well underway at the site, located behind the Solvang Veterans Memorial Building. Programs continue uninterrupted during construction, thanks to support of the city of Solvang sharing space in the Legion Wing at 1745 Mission Drive.
For a list of services, events, construction updates and additional information, visit www.solvangseniorcenter.org.
The Solvang Senior Center is supported by individual memberships, donations, and grants from foundations, businesses, and government entities.