The Thrift Shop at the Heart of Community Impact Gets a New Name
The Californer/10315153

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Californer -- For over 76 years, a small but mighty nonprofit has quietly helped transform thousands of lives across Santa Barbara County. Best known for operating one of the community's most beloved thrift shops, the organization will share its new name and refreshed identity with the community on Saturday, May 31, during a special reveal at the shop.

The day marks the official renaming of Assistance League® of Santa Barbara to Community Friends of Santa Barbara™, a move that reflects the organization's evolving mission and deep local roots. While shoppers know the thrift shop for great deals and hidden gems, few realize that proceeds directly fund programs in Youth & Education, Health & Wellness, Seniors & Assistance, and Community & Outreach.

"For decades, the thrift shop has been more than just a store. It's been the heartbeat of our service," said Tomi Topinko, President of Community Friends of Santa Barbara™. "This new name honors our history while opening the door to a more inclusive and recognizable future."

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The community is welcome to stop by the Thrift Shop on Saturday, May 31 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., located at 1259 Veronica Springs Rd., to be part of this meaningful moment in the organization's history. The nonprofit will reveal its new name and refreshed identity to the public that day, with longtime member volunteers on hand and a few small surprises planned for shoppers throughout the day.

Entirely volunteer-powered, Community Friends of Santa Barbara™ includes a diverse network of members. Two active auxiliaries, Community Friends Auxiliary and TeenServe™, help support the organization's 15 community programs across Santa Barbara County.  From dental screenings for children to backpacks filled with uniforms and school supplies, prom attire for teens, and connection for isolated seniors, their four core program areas serve thousands of local residents each year.

This name change isn't just symbolic. It marks a renewed commitment to serving Santa Barbara County with heart, purpose, and impact. It's a chance to celebrate the volunteers, shoppers, and community partners who make that work possible every day.

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About Community Friends of Santa Barbara™
Community Friends of Santa Barbara™ is a nonprofit powered entirely by member volunteers. Since 1948, the organization has supported people across Santa Barbara County through programs that provide school supplies, dental care, clothing, senior engagement, and emergency assistance. Formerly known as Assistance League of Santa Barbara, the group includes two active auxiliaries: Community Friends Auxiliary, formerly known as Las Aletas, and TeenServe™, formerly known as Assissteens®.
To learn more, visit www.assistanceleaguesb.org, new website launches on May 31 www.CFofSB.org.