CommUnify to host first ‘Upward Mobility Summit’ to address poverty in Santa Barbara County | Local News

CommUnify, in collaboration with 14 local organizations, will hold the inaugural “Upward Mobility Summit” on Friday, Jan. 24, to tackle the issue of poverty in Santa Barbara County.

The event, which will take place simultaneously at Santa Barbara City College and Allan Hancock College, will be available to attendees digitally from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The summit marks the start of a two-year initiative aimed at creating meaningful change through community collaboration and innovative solutions, according to organizers.

Matthew Desmond, author of the books “Evicted,” and “Poverty, by America,” will be the keynote speaker, presenting virtually to both campuses. The event will feature in-person panel discussions with community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and experts in the field, discussing strategies to address the county’s high poverty levels.

The summit is organized by CommUnify alongside a coalition of partners including Allan Hancock College, the County of Santa Barbara Department of Social Services, Dignity Moves, Food Bank of Santa Barbara County, and others. 

“CommUnify is thrilled that so many public and private organizations across our county have come together to address the high level of poverty here,” said Patricia Keelean, CEO of CommUnify. “Many of these organizations, like CommUnify, have been working to improve conditions for our county’s residents who are struggling to access the resources, support, and services they need to have better futures. By joining forces, we can determine where the roadblocks are and devise solutions. I feel confident that collectively we can create pathways to upward mobility for all.”

The event will kick off the county’s participation in the Upward Mobility Framework, a nationwide initiative led by the Urban Institute to promote equity and mobility. Santa Barbara County is part of a network of 26 localities across the United States aiming to change the narrative around poverty and foster upward mobility for all residents, from those in poverty to the middle class, according to organizers.

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