Pictured here are Kendall Pata (upper right) and four members of SB4EVA with some children from the United Boys & Girls Clubs during the site visit at the Carpinteria center.

To get to know one of our newest membership groups, SB4EVA, we interviewed Group Captain Kendall Pata.

What is the one word you would use to describe the Women’s Fund?
Effective. Easy. Empowering. Do I have to choose just one? Plus, I seem to like alliteration.

Why did you join the Women’s Fund?
I learned about the Women’s Fund when I was the Community Programming chair for the Junior League (JL). I knew the WF research committee was unparalleled in their knowledge of what was happening in Santa Barbara and where our town was most in need. Knowing where to place my focus helped me plan hands-on projects for the JL membership, and I could rest easy knowing that we were keeping our finger on the pulse of our community.

What inspired you to create your group?
I joined the Women’s Fund a few years ago with a group of Junior League sustainers. It was such an easy way to have an impact that I wanted to share this experience with my close friends. We are a group of young, working moms who are looking for an easy and effective way to make a difference.

What is the significance of your group name?
All of us met here in Santa Barbara, and no matter where we end up, we will always have Santa Barbara. SB4EVA!

How many members do you have?
We are 10 members strong!

How often do you meet?
We meet socially almost every week, but it’s my goal to get the group together at least four times a year to focus on our Women’s Fund tasks, do site visits, and attend WF events.

How will your annual voting process work?
I plan to host an evening where we can come together, discuss the grantees, and vote to distribute all the funds. It will be a group effort.

What is the one thing you would like people to know about your group?
We are a group of hardworking young moms who want to make an impact, ensure that our community is a healthy place for all children and families, and drink a little wine in the process.

What are the qualities that make you a good group captain?
I truly enjoy connecting people and fostering a sense of connection and achievement. I was a Division I college athlete and spent three years as co-captain…so I do have some serious experience in leading large groups of women!

Anything else you would like us to know about your group?
Come meet us! We love meeting new people and learning about other groups. We can’t wait to get more involved in the Women’s Fund!