Speakers

Fellow Rotarian and Interim Executive Director, Eryn Shugart, of SYV Fruit & Vegetable Rescue (Veggie Rescue), will share the story of Veggie Rescue’s innovative mission: recovering surplus produce and other fresh food that would otherwise go to waste and distributing it to local nonprofits feeding food-insecure community members. In a county with the second highest poverty rate in California, this work is vital—and it also protects the environment, as food waste in landfills emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas. In 2024 alone, Veggie Rescue rescued 630,000 pounds of nutritious food and distributed it to 45 nonprofit partners across the county.

Eryn Shugart is a Santa Barbara native and graduate of Dos Pueblos High School. She earned her BA from Chapman University and went on to complete both an MA and PhD at Claremont Graduate University. After returning home to raise her family—now proud mom to a grown son and daughter who both live locally—Eryn launched a career rooted in service. She began in social work, supporting foster youth and vulnerable adults, before transitioning to nonprofit leadership. Over the past 21 years, she has held senior leadership positions at organizations such as Friendship Adult Daycare Center, Jodi House Brain Injury Support Center, and Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation. Most recently, she spent three years helping launch Savie Health, Santa Barbara County’s only free health clinic. Eryn now leads this Santa Ynez–based nonprofit that serves all of Santa Barbara County. She is a proud member of the Montecito Rotary Club.

We are thrilled to showcase three outstanding organizations that have benefited from our Rotary Grants over the past two years!

New Beginnings
New Beginnings has utilized our funding to enhance their services for veterans by acquiring new kitchen appliances and furnishing their Collaborative Center. This support has been instrumental in their mission to provide essential services and a welcoming environment for those they serve.

Kiwanis Club
The Kiwanis Club has been a proud recipient of our funding for the last three years, specifically for their impactful Old Navy Back to School Day program. This year, they were also awarded the district grant, further enabling them to support local youth with necessary resources and opportunities.

Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF)
Our partnership with the Santa Barbara International Film Festival is a cherished tradition. We are delighted to support the Teen Film Camp, an inspiring program hosted at UBGC Camp Whittier. This initiative empowers young filmmakers to explore their creativity and develop their skills in a nurturing environment.

We are proud to support these organizations and their valuable contributions to our community!