PASF / Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation
Founded by the late Mrs. Lincoln Dellar (Sylvia) in the early 80s, this organization has become a large part of my life. After befriending Sylvia during an opera trip with a local classical music radio station, she asked me and my husband, Peter, to attend the annual competition. It was inspiring and we soon became board members. When Sylvia called me on a random Sunday afternoon to ask if I could meet with her, I had no idea how that meeting would change my life. Her main concern was that the organization (of which she was very proud) would continue after her. Her diagnosis with cancer prompted her to find a successor to oversee the organization and she said I was perfect for that. That was 2002 and here I am...still President of this vitally important local foundation that assists young musicians in their performance career goals. I have an awesome Board of Directors to rely on and help me with keeping this non-profit going. We are grateful for the financial support of our wonderful donors, and couldn't accomplish what we do without them. I'm humbled and honored to serve the community (and the very talented young people we have here) in this way!
CAMA / Community Arts Music Association
CAMA is one of the oldest presenting arts organizations in the United States. We celebrated the CAMA Centennial in 2019 and I was thrilled to serve as the Centennial Celebration Committee Chair for over three years in preparation for, as well as execution of, festivities and special events. It is no small accomplishment that CAMA has been bringing the world's best classical orchestras and soloists to Santa Barbara for over a century. Its rich history has been immortalized in a book: Celebrating CAMA's Centennial written by Santa Barbara's illustrious historian, Hattie Beresford. As Chair of the CAMA Board and former President of the Women's Board, I have a deep appreciation for all that goes into presenting such high-calibre talent. For many years I served as a docent through CAMA's Music Matters program. Sharing great classical music (and how it is still relevant) with elementary school students is fun and fulfilling. Great music feeds the soul!
Opera Santa Barbara
My affection for this organization runs deep. About the time this local non-profit was just finding its feet, I married my husband and moved to Santa Barbara. Having earned a Bachelor's Degree in Voice Performance at Bob Jones University, I was looking for a creative outlet and a way to use my talent in the way I was trained. For almost 20 years, I was a coordinator and participant in OSB's education outreach programs. It was also a profound pleasure to sing as a member of the opera chorus for many years, as well as singing as a main stage and comprimario artist. I worked with amazing directors, conductors, and shared the stage with incredibly talented singers from around the country. I made lifelong friendships that make life much brighter. Our shared passion for this inimitable art form keeps us forever connected.
Royal Family Kids
The most rewarding thing in life is finding the ministries and the purpose that God has for you. RFK is a faith-based organization designed for children in the foster care system in this country. When it started over 25 years ago, the goal was to make sure foster kids had a summer camp where they could just be a kid and not worry about their heavy life burdens. RFK planned to someday be in every State in the USA. They have surpassed that goal and are now international. One of the best parts of every summer (for the past 20 years) has been my work as Music and Breakfast Club Director, doing puppeteering, drama, and watching these dear children blossom under the love and care of counselors and staff. Every moment is a teachable moment. Showing these kids God's love and modeling life as it can be - and should be - is simply the greatest experience. RFK expanded over a decade ago to include Royal Family Club - a monthly club meeting that is like a mini-camp experience. I have enjoyed being a mentor for the past 10 years. This has changed my life as much, if not more, than it has for the kids.