Today is #GivingTuesday—a global day dedicated to generosity and giving back. This is your chance to invest in something truly meaningful: supporting the nonprofits that strengthen our community and transform lives.
At Noozhawk, we’re proud to partner with local nonprofits to inspire action and make a difference. Explore our Giving Guide and consider donating to one (or more!) of the incredible organizations working tirelessly to create change right here at home. Together, we can make this #GivingTuesday one to remember.
In this feature, Noozhawk spoke with Angela De Bruyn, Director of Marketing & Events at Hillside, to learn more about the nonprofit’s dedication to providing a home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Let’s celebrate the spirit of giving and take action today!
Hillside
Question: What is the name of your nonprofit, and what is its mission?
Answer: We are Hillside and our mission is to provide a home for adults with moderate to severe intellectual and developmental disabilities that supports their efforts to maximize their physical, cognitive, social and emotional abilities, so that they can attain their highest level of independence in an environment where they are treated with dignity and respect.
Q: How long has your organization been serving the community, and who founded it?
A: Hillside first opened its doors 80 years ago as an organization serving children with cerebral palsy and was conceptualized by George Cukor, Muriel Evans, and Joan Flanders. In 1978 we transitioned from serving only children into care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Q: How is your nonprofit primarily funded, and what are its biggest needs right now?
A: Hillside is primarily funded by Medi-Cal reimbursements however, those funds only cover the costs of our residents’ basic needs. Programs and activities, therapies, uncovered medical costs, and outings are all critical elements for enhancing our residents lives and supporting their dreams and goals. Expenses such as these are covered by fundraising.
Q: What types of events or programs do you run to engage your community and raise funds?
A: Hillside will hold a Disability Independence Day event in July 2025 and an 80th anniversary fundraising gala in October 2025. Each December we have our spectacular Shining Light on Abilities light display on our property, which is free, open to the public, and enjoyed by thousands every year. We have direct mail appeals for Spring, Summer, Year-End, Staff Holiday Bonus, and IRA Distributions. Hillside also has a robust grants department, and emerging monthly giving (“Hillside Heroes”), planned giving and endowment programs.
Q: How is your team structured? Have there been any major changes in your operations since you started?
A: As you can imagine, the best practices, models of care, and reimbursements within the non-profit I/DD sector have all changed drastically since Hillside’s inception. Today, we closely adhere to all recommendations and guidelines for resident care set in place by our licensing agency, the California Department of Public Health. Additionally, we implement a Person-Centered approach to developing care plans, programs, and goals for each resident. This individualized approach ensures optimized attainability of their success and independence.
Q: How can people get involved with your nonprofit or volunteer?
A: Anyone who is interested in learning more about Hillside or volunteering may visit our website or call (805)687-0788 x110.
Q: What sets your nonprofit apart from similar organizations?
A: At Hillside, the quality of care and personal attention individuals receive is unmatched. Many of our staff have been here for years and have developed meaningful connections and relationships with residents. Their loyalty and dedication shines through every day.
Q: How do you share your nonprofit’s impact and updates with the public?
A: Hillside is a leader in I/DD advocacy through community groups like the Santa Barbara Access Advisory Committee and Tri-Counties Regional Center Vendor Advisory as well as programs such as the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara Grants in Action Forum. Our community participation extends to support for projects such as Gwendolyn’s Playground and The Michael Towbes Library Plaza.
We offer a lunch and learn program open to the public on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at Noon called “Getting to Know Hillside” (you may visit our website for more information and to RSVP). Hillside has started participating in more public relations outreach through campaigns and publications such as Noozhawk’s Good for Santa Barbara and Montecito Journal’s The Giving List as well as increasing our social media presence.
Q: What makes your organization trustworthy for donors, and are there other ways people can support your cause beyond donations?
A: With 80 years serving the Santa Barbara community, Hillside’s reputation is well documented, transparent, and credible. This is perhaps most evident in the longstanding relationships with, and support of Hillside by, Santa Barbara’s leading philanthropists and foundations.
Q: Is there anything important or unique about your nonprofit that we haven’t covered yet?
A: Hillside is committed to being part of the local, state, and nationwide efforts promoting community inclusion for all people with disabilities.
By transforming our existing property and building a new, mixed-abilities neighborhood (the first of its kind in Santa Barbara), Hillside will accomplish several goals… To ensure our residents’ future, and our community’s ability to care for individuals with disabilities for generations to come. To establish a thriving, diverse, integrated neighborhood with adaptive housing for Hillside residents. To provide ADA/ABA housing that meets state and federal standards. And to facilitate greater integration, inclusion and acceptance, thereby generating greater equity for all members of the Santa Barbara community. Follow along on our journey at hillsidesb.org
Click here to support Hillside’s mission to provide a home for adults with moderate to severe intellectual and developmental disabilities centered on dignity and respect.
Check out Noozhawk’s Guide to Giving for a full list of nonprofits to donate to this giving season.
If you would like to include your nonprofit in our Good for Santa Barbara section and Giving Guide click HERE.