OASIS (Orcutt Area Seniors in Service), a volunteer-driven nonprofit center based in Orcutt, celebrated its 40th anniversary with a luau-themed birthday party at Newlove Picnic Grounds on Aug. 23.
“OASIS has become a lively health and wellness destination for thousands of local seniors ages 50 and older throughout our community,” said Michelle Southwick, OASIS Center executive director.
Earlier in August, OASIS held its fifth annual fundraising concert at Presqu’ile Winery that featured the Tepusquet Tornadoes, food trucks, and an anticipated crowd of 400.
“Something else to look forward to is our March 2026 St. Patrick’s-themed fundraiser repledging our continued dedication to the local community,” Southwick said.
The non-traditional St. Patrick’s Day gala on March 14 will have casino games and “plenty of Irish shenanigans at the nearby Santa Maria Fairpark,” according to OASIS.
During its 40th year, OASIS expects to also celebrate the groundbreaking for a new 14,000-square-foot building, an increase from its current 4,000-square-foot facility.
The new building will offer improved services for seniors’ health and lifestyle including safer, ADA-accessible recreational facilities, a more technologically advanced computer lab and increased capacity for large gatherings, OASIS said.
The larger facilities will include grounds for classes and activities in and surrounding the building, plus walking and biking trails.
Participation in OASIS’s programs is membership-based: $35 for an individual or $60 for two in the same household.
OASIS features some 50 opportunities a month for health and wellness, including aerobics instruction, ceramics, and investment group, with more creative arts and outdoor yoga classes expected to be added in the future.
Invitees to the 40th anniversary event included County Supervisor Bob Nelson, Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino, U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal, and Assemblymember Gregg Hart.
OASIS is a [501(c)(3)] organization for seniors in northern Santa Barbara County seniors.
“Each year we deliver enriching programs, resource navigation, and social connection that help older adults remain engaged, independent, and safe,” the nonprofit said. “At OASIS, we believe growing older should mean growing in community — not growing isolated,”
“We create welcoming spaces, meaningful programs, and practical supports that help local seniors stay active, informed, and connected. Our team also works across agencies to strengthen the safety net for older adults, preventing the loneliness, neglect, and abuse that too often go unseen.”
For more, visit www.oasisorcutt.org.