By Redacción
Redaccion@latinocc.com
Hospice of Santa Barbara announced the recipients of the 2025 Heroes of Hospice Awards, which will be celebrated during the organization’s 13th annual luncheon on Sunday, Sept. 14, at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort.
The event, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., will honor organizations and volunteers for their outstanding contributions to health and community well-being. It also marks Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 51st year of providing compassionate care to the region.
Honorees
CenCal Health will receive the Medical Award for its leadership in expanding children’s healthcare access. Since 1983, the organization has provided coverage to one in four Santa Barbara County residents and is recognized as the oldest Medicaid-managed care program of its kind in the United States.
“CenCal Health is an incredible partner to Hospice of Santa Barbara and provides high-quality health services and outreach to thousands of low-income and marginalized families,” said David Selberg, CEO of HSB.
YouthWell will be honored with the Partner Award for coordinating youth mental health and wellness services across the region. The group works with HSB to support children navigating grief and encourages self-care practices.
“YouthWell plays a critical role in offering a vital safety net for children, teens and families in crisis,” Selberg said.
Angel Flight West will receive the Volunteer Award for its commitment to providing free medical transportation. The nonprofit connects volunteer pilots and airlines with patients who need long-distance travel to access care.
“Angel Flight West is a gift to all the communities it serves, including here in Santa Barbara,” Selberg said. “Their donated flights create a bridge between patients and the facilities that can help them.”
The luncheon will also feature David Kessler, bestselling author and one of the world’s leading experts on death and grief, as the keynote speaker. Kessler will share his unique insights on children in grief, which is this year’s focus.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, 1759 S Jameson Lane, Montecito
More information and tickets: hospiceofsb.org/heroes
