18th Annual Celebrate Philanthropy 
Call for Nominations Open through August 20

           Nominations are now open for the 18th Celebrate Philanthropy awards and luncheon. Community members in the Santa Maria Valley are invited to submit a nomination for any individual, couple, or family who, through direct service or financial support, have demonstrated outstanding civic and charitable work to make the Santa Maria Valley a better place. The Santa Barbara Foundation serves as organizing sponsor of the event and, with an independent committee, coordinates the nominations process. 
          Nominations for the 18th Celebrate Philanthropy program may be submitted at SBFoundation.org/CPAwards through midnight August 20, 2026. An independent committee representing Santa Maria Valley’s diverse communities will choose the 2026 Celebrate Philanthropy honorees. 
          The Celebrate Philanthropy luncheon will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the Santa Maria Country Club, 505 West Waller Lane in Santa Maria. Luncheon tickets will go on sale in mid-September. 
As the organizing sponsor of Celebrate Philanthropy, the Santa Barbara Foundation is grateful for the support of sponsors. Individuals or organizations interested in sponsoring the 2026 Celebrate Philanthropy awards and events, may reach out to Julia Kelly at JKelly@SBFoundation.org or call (805) 880-9384.  
          Kate Ferguson and Mike and Tricia Bouquet were named Celebrate Philanthropy honorees last year.