Auxiliaries

Member-Volunteers In Action, Across Generations

Our Auxiliaries

76 Years of Giving Back

Community Friends

TeenServe

Community Friends of Santa Barbara™ is proud to include two vibrant auxiliaries: Community Friends Auxiliary (formerly Las Aletas) and TeenServe™ (formerly known as Assisteens®). These dedicated member-volunteer groups are an essential part of our mission, helping expand our reach and deepen our impact through flexible, hands-on service.

Auxiliaries are subgroups of our organization made up of passionate individuals, including both adults and teens, who share our commitment to giving back. Whether a busy professional with limited time or a student looking to make a difference, there's a place for everyone here.

Community Friends Auxiliary 

Evening-based meeting. Anytime volunteering. Lifelong friendships. Real community impact.

Since 1964, the Community Friends Auxiliary has offered women a meaningful way to give back on a flexible schedule. The group meets monthly on a weekday evening from September through May and welcomes new members year-round.

Auxiliary members play a hands-on role in programs that support local children and seniors. They also help staff the Community Friends of Santa Barbara™ Thrift Shop and contribute to other organization-wide efforts.

Our Philanthropic Programs

Student Clothing Connection (formerly known as Operation School Bell®)
Support preschool and elementary-aged children from Goleta Union School District, Head Start, and LEAP as they pick out brand-new school clothing and supplies at our mini store near the Goleta Valley Community Center.

Teen Clothing Connection (formerly known as Teen School Bell)
Join local teens from Goleta Valley Junior High, San Marcos High, and Dos Pueblos High for shopping trips where they can choose clothing that makes them feel confident and comfortable.

  • Kids on the Block
    Perform educational puppet shows for pre-K to first grade students, teaching them important lessons about safety, kindness, and inclusion.

  • Operation BookShelf
    In partnership with the Goleta Valley Library, deliver books, audiobooks, and large-print materials to homebound seniors along with a friendly visit each month.

Join the Auxiliary – A Flexible Way to Give Back

Membership

Community Friends Auxiliary

Community Friends of Santa Barbara™ is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization over 350 dedicated members and two auxiliaries: Community Friends Auxiliary and TeenServe™. Together, our members support and implement a wide range of hands-on philanthropic programs that directly serve students, families, and individuals across the Santa Barbara community.

We operate three facilities, including a thrift shop, administrative offices, and a dedicated multi-purpose building where students are welcomed and supported. With no paid staff or executive director, our members manage every aspect of the organization. The Board of Directors and committee chairs are elected annually and take an active role in leading and organizing all programs, events, and operations.

Our member-volunteer run thrift shop provides the primary source of funding for our programs, and because we keep our operating expenses low, we are able to return significant support back to the community each year.

Interested in becoming a member of our Auxiliary? Community Friends welcomes individuals who want to make a meaningful impact, connect with others, and take part in hands-on service. Auxiliary membership is open year-round, and we offer opportunities for involvement in all areas of the organization but with a flexible schedule.

What to Expect:

  • Support at least one Community Friends Auxiliary philanthropy project
  • Fulfill the responsibilities of your chosen role or committee
  • Volunteer in the Thrift Shop
  • Attend regular meetings
  • Track and report your volunteer hours
  • Maintain active membership with $75 annual dues
CONTACT US TO JOIN

TeenServe™

TeenServe™ is a dynamic group of middle and high school students, including those who are homeschooled, who come together to make a difference. Our organization created TeenServe™ in 2006 to give young people a way to lead, serve, and build community.

Members design their own philanthropic and fundraising projects while also supporting Community Friends of Santa Barbara™'s philanthropic programs. TeenServe™ is a great way to earn community service hours, gain leadership experience, and be part of something meaningful.

Where tomorrow’s leaders give back today

  • A Favorite Annual Event

    Faux Prom for Seniors
    TeenServe™ members host an intergenerational dance party for local seniors, complete with handmade corsages, live music, and dance lessons from Santa Barbara Dance Center. It's one of the most anticipated events of the year.

  • Interested in Joining TeenServe™?

    We're now accepting applications for the upcoming school year. Students must be enrolled in middle school, high school, or a homeschool equivalent.

    CONTACT