Community Safety Net

New Beginnings

By Katrina McDowell on Jan 22, 2025 in Giving

Yardi-supported nonprofit New Beginnings was established in 1968 in Santa Barbara, Calif., as a counseling center and has since added various programs and services. New Beginnings provides psychological counseling and housing assistance services to the homeless, low-income families and individuals throughout Santa Barbara County. The organization serves approximately 2,000 people each year through its programs:

• Counseling Center
• Safe Parking Shelter
• Rapid Rehousing
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families
• Life Skills Parenting and Education

“Our mission is to provide quality, affordable counseling, shelter, case management, and education that strengthen our community and provide our clients with the ability to lead healthy and productive lives,” said Linnea Haskett, community engagement and development manager for New Beginnings.

In 2025, New Beginnings will continue its work with the California Encampment Resolution Funding (CERF) grant, which will resolve 21 vehicle encampments throughout the county. It also plans to expand and retain staff, training them to be the best versions of themselves within and without the scope of New Beginnings. It also hopes to bring Veteran homelessness to zero within Santa Barbara County.

Yardi’s funding is instrumental in helping New Beginnings achieve its goals. This support enables New Beginnings to go beyond what government grants allow, covering costs like security deposits, car repairs, pet insurance, psychiatrist visits, and more. Contributions are crucial to its success.

“We are SO grateful,” exclaimed Haskett! She continued, “It is an honor to be recognized by such a successful and world-renowned company such as Yardi. We hope to continue to work together— particularly as Permanent Supportive Housing is becoming such a crucial piece to help solve homelessness.”

Neil and Jesse’s Hope for the Future

Neil is a gentle spirit whose journey has been filled with unexpected challenges. Neil was originally from Florida. He spent years traveling in his van, seeking freedom on the open road. But life took a turn when a car accident led to expensive repairs, and the pandemic cost him his job. Just when things seemed bleak, things came crashing down when he received a cancer diagnosis.

Amidst these hardships, Neil found comfort in Jesse, a sweet puppy he adopted during the pandemic. Their bond becomes his lifeline, bringing joy to his most challenging days. For over eight years, Neil navigated life without a stable home, yet he remains one of the kindest, most reliable people.

New Beginnings made a significant difference in Neil’s life by moving him into an apartment using CERF funds. When asked what he was most excited about, he said, “Being able to do dishes over an actual kitchen sink.” This small comfort symbolizes hope and stability, demonstrating the effectiveness of New Beginnings’ work.

Neil can finally focus on his health and seek employment, knowing he can leave Jesse safe at home for a few hours. This resilience demonstrates the work New Beginnings offers and hopes for a better future.  

Volunteer Opportunities

New Beginnings offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, including those provided within its Safe Parking Program, at the counseling center with administration tasks, and more. Whether you’re interested in direct client interaction or prefer behind-the-scenes work, there’s a role for you. Any Yardi employees interested in volunteering can contact Linnea Haskett at (805)963-7777 ext. 122.

“We are a lifeline to those most in need, of whom have often been turned away by other resources and individuals,” explained Haskett. “People come to us when they are at their very lowest – and they are greeted with empathy, kindness, and a type of patience and understanding that make most people feel seen and safe. It is an honor to be a part of New Beginnings, and we are so grateful to be recognized for our work.”

Find future non-profit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. If New Beginnings’ work inspires you, consider supporting them by donating or volunteering. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.

Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic reach.