A NIGHT OF GLITZ AND GLAMOUR – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18

Hillside to Celebrate 80 Years of Service with Gala at the Santa Barbara Club

Hillside, a nonprofit that has been serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Santa Barbara since 1945, will celebrate its remarkable 80th Anniversary Gala on Friday, October 18, 2025, at the Santa Barbara Club. The milestone evening will honor Hillside’s enduring legacy of fostering abilities and creating community—a mission that has touched countless lives over the past eight decades.

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 Academy award winning Hollywood director George Cukor, best known for classics such as My Fair Lady and The Philadelphia Story. 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. The event’s Old Hollywood theme is a nod to his foundational support of Hillside.

The 80th Anniversary Gala will not only be a night of celebration and impact, but a memorable evening bringing together community leaders, supporters, and friends of Hillside. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception and gourmet dinner at the historic Santa Barbara Club, with wine pairings from Chanin Wines. Also featured will be the silent and live auctions, inspiring stories and tributes from Hillside residents and families, live jazz music from The George Mamalakis Trio, and recognition of longtime partners, donors, and volunteers whose dedication has fueled Hillside’s growth. Lauren Horowitz, the featured guest speaker, is a cerebral palsy advocate, educator, and extreme sports enthusiast.

Silent and live auction items which will include two platinum passes to the 2026 Santa Barbara International Film Festival, a week-long stay in Incline Village, a sunset boat cruise, a weekend Sunstone Villa stay and winery experience, private cooking lessons, yoga classes, a professional photo session, spa treatments and more!

“This celebration is about honoring the past while looking toward the future,” said Michael Rassler, President & CEO of Hillside. “For 80 years, Hillside has been a place where abilities are nurtured, where residents are empowered, and where the Santa Barbara community has come together to support those most in need. This Gala is both a thank you to our supporters, and a call to continue building a more inclusive tomorrow.”

Proceeds from the Gala will directly support Hillside’s programs and services, including residential care, a variety therapies, vocational training, and community engagement opportunities. These resources ensure that Hillside residents can live with dignity, independence, and a true sense of belonging. 

Tickets for Hillside’s 80th Anniversary Gala are available for purchase by visiting hillsidesb.org or using the QR Code. You may also contact Elizabeth Arendt, Development Assistant at earendt@hillsidesb.org (805) 687-0788 x109. 

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information, please us the QR code, visit hillsidesb.org, or contact Cheryl Sweeney, Chief Development Officer, at csweeney@hillsidesb.org or (805)-687-0788 x123.