Join Hospice of Santa Barbara in Celebrating 42nd Annual Light Up a Life Ceremonies, Honoring Loved Ones This Holiday Season
Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is honored to invite the community to its 42nd Annual Light Up a Life ceremonies. This cherished holiday tradition returns to offer a warm, uniting space for the communities of Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Carpinteria to remember and honor the loved ones whose absence is felt during the holiday season. The ceremonies are free and open to the public.
Media Contact: Chris Davis/Jake Wong (858) 449-5234
chris@wavecommsb.com, jake@wavecommsb.com
Santa Barbara, CA, December 2, 2025 – Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is honored to invite the community to its 42nd Annual Light Up a Life ceremonies. This cherished holiday tradition returns to offer a warm, uniting space for the communities of Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Carpinteria to remember and honor the loved ones whose absence is felt during the holiday season. The ceremonies are free and open to the public.
While the holiday season is often associated with joy, it frequently stirs a complex mix of feelings. For individuals navigating this time while grieving a loss, the emotions can be especially raw. HSB understands that this period requires both remembrance and support, which is why we proudly host Light Up a Life annually to honor those who are deeply missed.
HSB will host four ceremonies featuring speakers, entertainment, refreshments, and the lighting of a memorial tree. This year, HSB is excited to welcome back Lois Mahalia, John Vale, Dos Pueblos Jazz Choir, and the Laguna Blanca School Choir to certain ceremonies, along with cookies from Robin Himovitz and Aunt Janet’s Cookies, poetry by Perie Longo and George Yatchisin, and other amazing speakers and guests.
Guests will be able to hang one or more stars in memory of a loved one who has died or in honor of someone living. The Trees of Remembrance will remain lit at each site through the end of the year.
Dates and locations include:
Saturday, December 6th at 5PM - Montecito - The Corner Green @ 1504 E. Valley Road (Program begins 30 minutes later, after star sales and music)
Sunday, December 7th at 5:30PM - Santa Barbara - Lobero Theatre @ 33 E. Canon Perdido (Program begins 30 minutes later, after star sales and music)
Saturday, December 13th at 5PM - Carpinteria - Seal Fountain @ 884 Linden Avenue (Program begins 30 minutes later, after star sales and music)
Sunday, December 14th at 5PM - Goleta - Camino Real Marketplace near Theater @ 7040 Market Place Drive (Program begins 30 minutes later, after star sales and music)
Stars and refreshments will be available at each event.
Those who would like to participate but are unable to attend the in-person ceremonies can dedicate a star to a loved one on HSB’s Virtual Tree of Remembrance. For a suggested donation of $15, individuals can dedicate a digital star(s) with their loved one’s name, photo, and a special message.
“We invite the community to join us as we take a moment to honor those we hold dear, whether they are with us in body or spirit,” said David Selberg, Hospice of Santa Barbara CEO. "Light Up a Life is a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season and come together to share love and foster a spirit of unity."
All events are free. To dedicate a paper or virtual star, or for more information, please visit: www.hospiceofsb.org/lual
INTERPRETACIÓN SIMULTÁNEA AL ESPAÑOL DISPONIBLE
Hospice of Santa Barbara provides professional counseling, support groups, and patient care services free of charge to individuals and families who are grieving the death of a loved one or experiencing the impact of a life-threatening illness. Hospice of Santa Barbara also provides counseling in our offices and on 17 local elementary, junior high, and high school campuses to children and teens who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
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Hospice of Santa Barbara Celebrates 2025 Heroes of Hospice Luncheon
Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) celebrated the 2025 Heroes of Hospice award recipients at its sold-out 13th Annual Heroes of Hospice (HOH) luncheon on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort (1759 S Jameson Lane, Montecito). The event recognized individuals and organizations for their outstanding service and dedication to the health and well-being of the community, while also marking 51 years of Hospice of Santa Barbara’s compassionate care.
Media Contact: Chris Davis/Jake Wong (858) 449-5234
chris@wavecommsb.com, jake@wavecommsb.com
Santa Barbara, CA — September 18, 2025 — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) celebrated the 2025 Heroes of Hospice award recipients at its sold-out 13th Annual Heroes of Hospice (HOH) luncheon on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort (1759 S Jameson Lane, Montecito). The event recognized individuals and organizations for their outstanding service and dedication to the health and well-being of the community, while also marking 51 years of Hospice of Santa Barbara’s compassionate care.
CenCal Health received the Medical Award in recognition of its leadership in championing healthcare access for children. Providing health coverage for 1 in 4 people in Santa Barbara County, CenCal Health has been in operation since 1983, making it the oldest Medicaid-managed care program of its kind in the country.
“CenCal Health is an incredible partner to Hospice of Santa Barbara and provides access to high-quality health services, along with education and outreach, for thousands of low-income and marginalized families in Santa Barbara County,” said David Selberg, CEO of HSB. “They know that our entire community thrives when we all achieve optimal health together.”
YouthWell was honored with the Partner Award for its essential work in coordinating mental health and wellness services for youth across the region. YouthWell collaborates with HSB to support children navigating grief, mental wellness, and the development of self-care practices.
"YouthWell plays a critical role in providing an important safety-net of support in our community for children and teens and their families in crisis,” said Selberg.
Angel Flight West received the Volunteer Award for its unwavering commitment to providing free medical transportation to individuals and families in need. The organization connects volunteer pilots and commercial airlines with people whose non-emergency health needs require long-distance travel to access care.
“Angel Flight West is a gift to all the communities they serve, including here in Santa Barbara,” said Selberg. “With their donated flights, they serve as the transportation bridge for those in need of medical care and the facilities that can help them.”
The luncheon also featured keynote speaker David Kessler, best-selling author and one of the world's foremost experts on death and grief. Kessler shared his insights, including his experiences working with children in grief, a key focus of this year’s event.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, September 14, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, Santa Barbara, CA
For more information about Hospice of Santa Barbara and its programs, visit www.hospiceofsb.org.
Hospice of Santa Barbara
Hospice of Santa Barbara provides professional counseling, support groups, and patient care services free of charge to individuals and families who are grieving the death of a loved one or experiencing the impact of a life-threatening illness. Hospice of Santa Barbara also provides counseling in our offices and on seventeen local elementary, junior high and high school campuses to children and teens who are grieving the loss of a loved one. For more information
about Hospice of Santa Barbara, including volunteer opportunities, call (805) 563-8820 or visit www.hospiceofsb.org/
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Every Bottle, Every Visit, Every Order: Folded Hills Donates 100% of Friday Sales in September to Hospice of Santa Barbara
Every Friday in September, Folded Hills Winery will match 100% of every purchase – whether it’s bottles of wine, visits to the tasting rooms, or orders from the online store—with a donation to Hospice of Santa Barbara. Through its Philanthropy Fridays initiative, made possible by the Kim and Andy Bush Family Foundation, Folded Hills shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and their amazing work. This month, wine lovers have the unique opportunity to raise a glass while supporting Hospice of Santa Barbara’s mission of providing compassionate care to those in need.
Media Contact: Chris Davis/Jake Wong (858) 449-5234
chris@wavecommsb.com, jake@wavecommsb.com
Santa Barbara, CA — September 11, 2025 — Every Friday in September, Folded Hills Winery will match 100% of every purchase – whether it’s bottles of wine, visits to the tasting rooms, or orders from the online store—with a donation to Hospice of Santa Barbara. Through its Philanthropy Fridays initiative, made possible by the Kim and Andy Bush Family Foundation, Folded Hills shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and their amazing work. This month, wine lovers have the unique opportunity to raise a glass while supporting Hospice of Santa Barbara’s mission of providing compassionate care to those in need.
Kim Busch, Owner and Founder of Folded Hills, who has a close connection to Hospice of Santa Barbara, said, “When my husband faced a very difficult diagnosis, we first called a neuro-oncologist. Our second call was to Hospice of Santa Barbara. They were able to recommend a wonderful grief counselor who helped us to navigate this challenging and confusing new world. We continue to depend on Hospice of Santa Barbara for their in-depth knowledge, programs, and loving care. It is a privilege to be able to help support and give back to these incredible Heroes.”
Since 1974, Hospice of Santa Barbara has provided free support to individuals and families affected by serious illness and to those bereaved in our community. “We are incredibly grateful for Folded Hills’ generosity and support. Contributions like theirs allow us to be there for anyone in our community who needs our services during life’s most challenging moments,” said David Selberg, CEO of Hospice of Santa Barbara.
HSB’s partnership with Folded Hills offers a meaningful way to give back—simply by enjoying local wine. It’s also the perfect opportunity to stock up early on holiday gifts! Visit either tasting room or shop online during the remaining Fridays in September for Folded Hills Philanthropy Fridays.
To participate in Philanthropy Fridays at Folded Hills, you can:
Shop online at foldedhills.com on any Friday in September
Visit either Folded Hills tasting room on any Friday in September
Montecito Tasting Room: 1294 Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA, 93108
Homestead Tasting Room: 2525 Old Coast HWY, Gaviota, CA, 95117
Golden Hour this Friday!
Don’t miss Golden Hour at Folded Hills on Friday, September 12, from 4:00–7:30 PM at the Estate Homestead Tasting Room. Enjoy a relaxed evening with live music, wood-fired pizzas, and award-winning wines by the glass. No RSVP required—first come, first served!
Hospice of Santa Barbara
Hospice of Santa Barbara provides professional counseling, support groups, and patient care services free of charge to individuals and families who are grieving the death of a loved one or experiencing the impact of a life-threatening illness. Hospice of Santa Barbara also provides counseling in our offices and on seventeen local elementary, junior high and high school campuses to children and teens who are grieving the loss of a loved one. For more information about Hospice of Santa Barbara, including volunteer opportunities, call (805) 563-8820 or visit www.hospiceofsb.org/
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Heroes of Hospice of SB Luncheon to Showcase Unique and Valuable Artwork for Auction
Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 13th annual Heroes of Hospice luncheon will include a silent art auction, thanks to the generous donation by Suzanne Grimmesey and Edwin Feliciano of three giclée prints by Armenian artist Gevorg Yeghiazaryan. While bids are only available online at https://paybee.io/@hospiceofsb@23, the prints will be on display at this year’s event. Each is valued at as much as $2,000 or higher.
Media Contact: Chris Davis/Jake Wong (858) 449-5234
chris@wavecommsb.com, jake@wavecommsb.com
Santa Barbara, CA. September 9, 2025 – Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 13th annual Heroes of Hospice luncheon will include a silent art auction, thanks to the generous donation by Suzanne Grimmesey and Edwin Feliciano of three giclée prints by Armenian artist Gevorg Yeghiazaryan. While bids are only available online at https://paybee.io/@hospiceofsb@23, the prints will be on display at this year’s event. Each is valued at as much as $2,000 or higher.
About the Artist
Yeghiazaryan, born in 1963 in Gyumri, Armenia, graduated from the Yerevan School of Fine Arts in 1983 and the Yerevan Fine Arts and Theater Institute in 1991. In 1994, he became a member of the "Union of Artists" of Armenia, and in 1998, he became a member of the International Association of Arts (UNESCO). In 2005, he founded an experimental pottery studio and has had art exhibitions in Boston, Atlanta, New York, Jerusalem, Beirut, and many other cities.
Yeghiazaryan’s artwork is known for its study of surrealism and poetic lyricism. Art critics cite Yeghiazaryan’s ability to walk the boundary between reality and fantasy as part of his work’s appeal. Much of his artwork is dominated by contrasts of light, space, color, and transparency while exploring themes of music, memory, and introspection. His limited edition giclée prints are highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts.
The artwork up for auction at the Heroes of Hospice event includes the following:
“Symphony of Souls” 57.5 h x 46.5 w
A study of music and motion unfolds as a dreamlike ensemble of musicians dissolves into abstract shapes with fluid forms and vivid colors, blending reality and imagination into a cohesive vision.
“Don Quixote” 32.5 square
The classic story of Don Quixote is brought to life with expressive brushwork and contrasts of light and dark, highlighting the dreamer’s face as he gazes pensively into the distance.
“Silence of the Night” 50.5 h x 58.5 w
A nocturnal scene evokes a sense of calm and introspection with bold brushstrokes, inviting viewers to pause and reflect on the night’s beauty and the contemplative space it makes for the mind and soul.
Other online auction items include a range of items, including vacations and staycations, theater and cultural event tickets, sporting opportunities, including rounds of golf and pickleball lessons, wellness and day spa sessions, wine tastings, dinners at local fine dining restaurants, and much more. Visit: Online Auction items to pursue items and to make a bid.
Heroes of Hospice Award Recipients
The luncheon’s silent auction will complement the main event, which is a celebration of individuals and organizations in the community who have shown compassionate dedication to supporting those facing life-threatening illness or grief. This year’s award recipients include CenCal Health, YouthWell, and Angel Flight West, in recognition of their service to local children, teens, and marginalized families.
The keynote speaker will be David Kessler, a best-selling author and one of the world’s foremost experts on death and grief. He will be sharing his unique experience of children in grief, the focus of this year’s event.
The luncheon will take place on Sunday, September 14, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort. Tickets are on sale now.
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Hospice of Santa Barbara Announces 2025 Heroes of Hospice Award Recipients
Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is honored to announce the 2025 Heroes of Hospice award recipients, recognized for their outstanding service and dedication to the health and well-being of our community. The honorees will be celebrated at Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 13th Annual Heroes of Hospice (HOH) luncheon on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort (1759 S Jameson Lane, Montecito). The event also marks 51 years of Hospice of Santa Barbara’s compassionate care and service to the community.
Media Contact: Chris Davis/Jake Wong (858) 449-5234
chris@wavecommsb.com, jake@wavecommsb.com
Santa Barbara, CA — August 18, 2025 — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is honored to announce the 2025 Heroes of Hospice award recipients, recognized for their outstanding service and dedication to the health and well-being of our community. The honorees will be celebrated at Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 13th Annual Heroes of Hospice (HOH) luncheon on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort (1759 S Jameson Lane, Montecito). The event also marks 51 years of Hospice of Santa Barbara’s compassionate care and service to the community.
CenCal Health will receive the Medical Award in recognition of its leadership in championing healthcare access for children. Providing health coverage for 1 in 4 people in Santa Barbara County, CenCal Health has been in operation since 1983, and is recognized as the oldest Medicaid-managed care program of its kind in the country.
“CenCal Health is an incredible partner to Hospice of Santa Barbara and provides access to high-quality health services, along with education and outreach, for thousands of low-income and marginalized families in Santa Barbara County,” said David Selberg, CEO of HSB. “They know that our entire community thrives when we all achieve optimal health together.”
YouthWell will be honored with the Partner Award for its essential work in coordinating mental health and wellness services for youth across the region. YouthWell collaborates with HSB to help children navigating grief, with their mental wellness and with developing self-care practices.
"YouthWell plays a critical role in providing an important safety-net of support in our community for children and teens and their families in crisis,” said Selberg.
Angel Flight West will receive the Volunteer Award for its unwavering commitment to providing free medical transportation to individuals and families in need. The organization links volunteer pilots and commercial airlines with people whose non-emergency health needs require long-distance travel to access care.
“Angel Flight West is a gift to all the communities they serve, including here in Santa Barbara,” said Selberg. “With their donated flights, they are the transportation bridge for those in need of medical care and the facilities that can help them.”
In addition to recognizing this year’s outstanding honorees, Hospice of Santa Barbara is incredibly excited to have best-selling author and one of the world's foremost experts on death and grief, David Kessler, as this year's keynote speaker. It is a privilege to have him share, among other things, his unique experience of children in grief, which is the focus of our event this year.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, September 14, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, Santa Barbara, CA
For more information and tickets, visit hospiceofsb.org/heroes
Hospice of Santa Barbara
Hospice of Santa Barbara provides professional counseling, support groups, and patient care services free of charge to individuals and families who are grieving the death of a loved one or experiencing the impact of a life-threatening illness. Hospice of Santa Barbara also provides counseling in our offices and on seventeen local elementary, junior high and high school campuses to children and teens who are grieving the loss of a loved one. For more information about Hospice of Santa Barbara, including volunteer opportunities, call (805) 563-8820 or visit www.hospiceofsb.org/
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Compassionate Care of Carpinteria hosts the 6th Annual The Light Shines Ahead Luncheon to Bring Awareness and Raise Funds for its Free Services in Carpinteria
Compassionate Care of Carpinteria (CCC), an initiative of Hospice of Santa Barbara, will host its 6th Annual luncheon, The Light Shines Ahead on Thursday, May 16, 2024 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Rincon Beach Club, located at 3805 Santa Claus Ln, Carpinteria, CA.
Media Contact: Chris Davis/Citlali Erazo (805) 403-3170
chris@wavecommsb.com, citlali@wavecommsb.com
Carpinteria, CA, April 12, 2024 - Compassionate Care of Carpinteria (CCC), an initiative of Hospice of Santa Barbara, will host its 6th Annual luncheon, The Light Shines Ahead on Thursday, May 16, 2024 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Rincon Beach Club, located at 3805 Santa Claus Ln, Carpinteria, CA.
The Light Shines Ahead luncheon will feature special guest speaker Jessica Clark, owner and founder of The Connected Co. Clark’s dedication to her community was forged through both triumph and tragedy. After enduring the loss of her first husband and her father within a year to cancer, she found solace and strength in the support of her community. This profound experience ignited her commitment to giving back. She went on to establish, manage, and sell multiple restaurants in the region, and has recently ventured into business coaching and consulting. But beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Clark is deeply engaged in grassroots initiatives aimed at fostering community support and empowerment.
The luncheon will also feature steering committee chair, Marybeth Carty, Virginia Benson Wigle, founder of the Starfish Connection, a nonprofit organization offering bridge gap grants to individuals who would otherwise fall through the cracks, and David Selberg, Hospice of Santa Barbara’s CEO.
Since the beginnings of Hospice of Santa Barbara fifty years ago, the organization has been proud to serve children and families in Carpinteria struggling with the loss of a loved one or coping with life-threatening illness. Due to a variety of factors, including a reduction in the stigma surrounding mental health, there is an increase in demand for services, and in some cases, an increase in wait times to receive services. CCC’s goal is to reduce wait times by expanding its core capacity for counseling and launching new innovative programs that can reach more people.
This luncheon will have a special focus on remembering loved ones who have passed away and their impact on our lives. Guests will be provided with an opportunity to donate and support the wonderful work of CCC in the name of their loved ones, helping bring programs and services, completely free of charge, to adults, children and seniors who are struggling with grief or life-threatening illness. Guests are also invited to bring a photograph of their loved ones to place at their table.
"The Light Shines Ahead has become a beloved annual event that brings this compassionate and close-knit community together to support our work in Carpinteria," said David Selberg, CEO of Hospice of Santa Barbara. “We look forward to once again gathering with fellow CCC supporters, united in our dedication to offering assistance to anyone affected by serious illness or coping with the loss of a loved one.”
The Light Shines Ahead is the annual fundraiser for CCC, an initiative of Hospice of Santa Barbara that offers programs and services, completely free of charge, to adults, children and seniors who are struggling with grief or life-threatening illness. Services include counseling, practical care, and medical navigation. All services are offered in English and Spanish throughout Carpinteria.
To buy tickets, view sponsorship opportunities or learn more about the event, please visit www.CompassionateCareofCarpinteria.org.
Hospice of Santa Barbara provides professional counseling, support groups, and patient care services free of charge to individuals and families who are grieving the death of a loved one or experiencing the impact of a life-threatening illness. Hospice of Santa Barbara also provides counseling on 17 local elementary, junior high, and high school campuses to children and teens who are grieving the loss of a loved one. For more information about Hospice of Santa Barbara, including volunteer opportunities, call (805) 563-8820 or visit www.hospiceofsantabarbara.org.
Tips For Navigating The Holidays After The Loss Of A Loved One
Hospice of Santa Barbara encourages our community to not just “get through” the holidays, but to embrace the season as a time for healing. Read more for a few tips we hope will be helpful.
Hospice of Santa Barbara - November 22, 2023
Hospice of Santa Barbara encourages our community to not just “get through” the holidays, but to embrace the season as a time for healing. Here are a few tips we hope will be helpful to you:
As the holidays near, there may be hard times ahead as you mourn your loved one. Remember that everyone grieves differently, and that it’s okay to not feel okay. If there are children in your family who are also coping with loss, focus on their needs and help them process through their grief.
Make a conscious decision when it comes to carrying on your holiday traditions, or considering starting new ones. Continuing the old traditions may help keep your loved one’s memory alive, but setting new ones may help you to move on.
Honor your loved one’s memory, whether it is through a beloved holiday tradition, or by sharing stories about them with your friends. Remember that although they are gone, their memory will always live on in your heart.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself by getting a proper amount of sleep, eating healthy and exercising when you can, but without forcing too much of your energy. Taking care of your body will help alleviate stress and improve your overall well-being.
Surround yourself with a supportive community that will be with you every step of the way as you cope with your grief. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
And, in hopes of making the holidays brighter for you and your family, we cordially invite you to celebrate and honor the lives of your loved ones at Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 40th annual Light Up A Life ceremonies.