California Foundation for Stronger Communities Makes Generous Donation to Hillside

Hillside has received a generous donation from the California Foundation for Stronger Communities of $25,920 to continue providing a home, medical and therapeutic care, skills training, and community engagement opportunities for individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Santa Barbara. 

The California Foundation for Stronger Communities (“CFSC”) is a California non-profit public benefit corporation. “(Hillside’s) service to the community is heartwarming and we are honored to help support (their) goals”. This unsolicited contribution will directly support Hillside’s programs and services, ensuring that Hillside residents can live with dignity, independence, and a true sense of belonging.

The Board of Directors of CFSC acts as the Board of Directors for the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA”). The CMFA is a Joint Powers Authority created to strengthen local communities by assisting with the financing of economic development and charitable activities throughout the State of California.  With the goal of giving back to California communities, the CMFA assists local governments, non-profits and businesses with the issuance of taxable and tax-exempt financing aimed at improving the standard of living in California.  This contribution to Hillside by the CFSC is a direct result of the financing facilitated by the CMFA. 

For 80 years, Hillside has been a place where abilities are nurtured, residents are empowered, and where the community has come together to support those most in need. Hillside’s origins trace back to a group of families and civic leaders who recognized the urgent need for compassionate care and opportunities for children and adults with disabilities in Santa Barbara. Among the visionary founders was Hollywood director George Cukor. Frustrated by the lack of resources and care for his niece with cerebral palsy, Cukor brought not only his influence and passion to the cause, but also his steadfast commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities could live with dignity, opportunity and joy. His involvement helped spark a movement of community support that continues to sustain Hillside today. 

Brad Frohling, Hillside Board Chair states, “We see ability, not limitations. By supporting each resident in living a life of purpose, connection, and dignity, we are able to provide an inclusive environment where people thrive.”  As Hillside looks towards creating a new, integrated, mixed-abilities community on its property on Veronica Springs Road, support from the community will be critical.  For information on how you can support the work of Hillside, please visit www.hillsidesb.org, or contact Cheryl Sweeney, Chief Development Officer, at [email protected] or (805)-687-0788 x123.