Third Annual Santa Barbara WILD! a Huge Success!

A WILD! group of conservationists! Photo by Geoff Green

Our Santa Barbara WILD! fundraiser on Sunday, October 22 was a phenomenal success! With the support of our sponsors, guests, members, volunteers, and community, we welcomed 250 people and raised over $120,000 to protect our region’s iconic landscapes, nearly twice as much as last year!

Guests prepare for dinner and the live auction. Photo by Pete Davis

Our sponsors and attendees make this unique event possible. Seasons Catering served a sumptuous dinner and delectable appetizers, and Ventura Rental Party Center provided the elegant tenting. Our event production needs were generously supported by Delicate Productions and Ed Kish. Geoff Green expertly emceed our event, auctioneer Jim Nye worked his magic, and The Bryan Titus Trio provided the perfect soundtrack for the day.

The Bryan Titus Trio provided rustic jams throughout the silent auction. Photo by Pete Davis

Our thanks also go to Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co., Beckmen Vineyards, and Solminer Wine. We are truly grateful to Carol Gravelle’s stellar graphic designs and Ashley Lee’s beautiful program, and contributing photographers Luke Butcher and Pete Davis — watch for more postings of event photos on our Facebook page and at SBwild.org.

Our impressive silent auction featured unique items from local vendors and businesses. Highlights included an original Marcia Burtt painting, a hand-crafted table by Keefrider, wines from Harrison Clarke, A Tribute to Grace, and F2, and gear from Toad&Co and Patagonia.

Some of the many stellar silent auction items up for grabs. Photo by Pete Davis

Capping off the evening, our live auction proved to be a grand success! Fund-A-Need raised $56,400 for our land conservation and advocacy programs, inspired by a matching challenge from an anonymous donor.

Our deep appreciation goes to our tireless event committee who contribute months of their time and talents to bringing our silent and live auction to life, and for making this event run smoothly and successfully — Sammie, Jim, Lyndsey, Steve, and Chris — we salute you!!

And we are truly grateful to our volunteers who ignite the event with their enthusiasm, energy, hard work and willing contribution of their precious time. Santa Barbara WILD! would not be possible without them.

Guests enjoyed delicious wines from Solminer Wine Co. and Beckmen Vineyards. Photo by Pete Davis

With the momentum generated at this event, we are prepared to forge ahead with even more might and determination to protect our local backcountry.

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