Community of Friends
Founded by Jay Fortman, Community of Friends brings together schools, volunteers, and donors to provide meaningful support for students and families. A retired GUSD school psychologist and MFT, Jay inspired the program with deep compassion and experience. This holiday season, the initiative made a powerful impact by supporting needy families through a successful giving effort that included nearly 100 holiday boxes filled with food, stockings, donated gifts, and gift cards—made possible by 7 participating schools and a room full of dedicated volunteers. The response from the community reflects the program’s impact. “Our families truly felt supported during the holidays,” shared one educator, while a volunteer noted, “Being part of Community of Friends reminds you how much good a caring community can do.” Together, these voices underscore the difference Community of Friends continues to make in Goleta.
“Seeing our school come together to support families during the holidays was incredibly moving,” shared one volunteer. An educator noted, “Community of Friends helps our families feel cared for and supported when it matters most.”
