Friendship Center’s 50th Anniversary Summer Polo Soirée brought together nearly 100 community members and raised more than $75,000 during an afternoon of celebration, philanthropy and polo.
“The fundraising effort exceeded its goal, ensuring continued compassionate daytime care and support for older adults living with dementia and their family caregivers throughout South Santa Barbara County,” organizers said.
Held at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, the event drew longtime supporters and welcomed more than 30 new friends to the Friendship Center family.
Guests enjoyed polo viewing, lite bites, a hosted bar, silent auction, and a Polo 101 experience led by polo expert Claudia Uretz and her horse Peanut.
Funds raised will support Friendship Center’s specialized care programs, enriching activities, caregiver resources, and financial assistance, helping local families have access to high-quality dementia care.
“We are incredibly grateful to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, auction donor, and guest who helped make this event such a tremendous success,” said Kathryn Westland, executive director of Friendship Center.
“Celebrating our 50th anniversary alongside so many dedicated supporters while exceeding our fundraising goal is a testament to how deeply our community cares about ensuring older adults living with dementia receive the dignity, connection, and compassionate care they deserve,” she said.
Friendship Center thanks everyone who contributed to the success of the Summer Polo Soirée and Summer Campaign. Their generosity will make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families navigating the challenges of dementia, organizers said.
As Friendship Center continues celebrating its 50th anniversary, the community is invited to two new signature events.
Friendship Center will host its inaugural Dementia Care Conference, Saturday, Sept. 26 at The Leta Hotel, bringing together local and national experts to provide education, resources, and best practices for professionals, caregivers, and community members.
The event continues on Sunday, Sept. 27 with the first Friendship Center Family Reunion & Picnic at the Carousel House in Chase Palm Park. The reunion will welcome generations of participants, families, staff, volunteers and supporters to celebrate five decades of community, care and connection.
For more about the events, visit fcsb.org/50-years/.
Founded in 1976, Friendship Center is a nonprofit adult day services organization dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults living with dementia and providing support, education, and respite for their families.
Learn more at fcsb.org.