FSA Celebrates Generosity and Service Since 1899

By Maria McCall

Longtime supporters Michael and Marni Cooney hosted a donor appreciation reception at the Valley Club to honor Family Service Agency (FSA) and its vital work.

Marni highlighted that FSA has been serving those in need in our community since 1899, today reaching over 26,000 individuals with services like senior programs, family support, mental health counseling, and education programs like Dedicated Dads and Connected Couples, Connected Families. “We believe a community’s strength is measured by how it supports its most vulnerable members, and FSA is here to improve outcomes for those in crisis,” Cooney said, before introducing FSA CEO Lisa Brabo.

Brabo, known for her collaboration with nonprofits, spoke about FSA’s partnership with the Santa Barbara Public Library (SBPL) through its Community Connections program. Librarians Jennifer Stetson and Jace Turner shared stories about how FSA’s Community Support Specialist Mersy Lopez helps connect people to essential resources – housing, health services, nutrition, employment, and education – in a safe, welcoming space. “SBPL values our partnership with FSA, and we’re excited to deepen our collaboration,” Turner said.

When asked about how FSA prioritizes its broad range of services, Brabo explained, “We focus on what I call core services, which remain constant, no matter the crisis. Whether it’s a disaster, pandemic, or the challenges we face today, these two pillars are essential: meeting people’s basic needs for a reasonable quality of life and providing mental health support. These needs are always present, and we remain committed to them.”

Guests included Linda Sessler, Sandy Nordahl, Paul Cordeiro, Rod Durham, Keith Moore, Pegeen White, Kathy O’Leary, Mary & Jim Morouse, Karen Poythress, Dana & Andrea Newquist.

He’s keeping up with The Journal — pip pip!