Celebrating 40 Years: OASIS Nonprofit Empowers Seniors in Orcutt

OASIS Nonprofit Celebrates 40 Years of Service

The nonprofit organization OASIS (Orcutt Area Seniors in Service) has been a beacon of hope and community service for seniors in Northern Santa Barbara County for the past four decades. Founded in 1985, OASIS aims to provide support and opportunities for individuals aged 50 and older, fostering wellness, social connections, and independence. On August 23, 2025, OASIS plans to celebrate this significant milestone with an exciting luau-themed birthday party at Newlove Picnic Grounds, drawing the participation of local dignitaries and community members alike.

OASIS has evolved into a prominent health and wellness hub for the region's elderly population, as stated by its Executive Director, Michelle Southwick. She emphasizes that OASIS is much more than just a center; it represents a vibrant community where seniors can engage in enriching programs and activities designed to improve their quality of life.

This anniversary celebration is paired with an upcoming fundraising concert on August 9, 2025, at the picturesque Presqu'ile Winery, featuring local band The Tepusquet Tornadoes. This popular annual event is expected to attract around 400 attendees enjoying live music and diverse food truck offerings. Further engagement opportunities for the community will continue into March 2026, when OASIS hosts a lively St. Patrick's Day gala featuring games and themed festivities.

A major highlight of OASIS's 40th year will be the groundbreaking ceremony for a new 14,000-square-foot facility. This state-of-the-art building will replace the current 4,000-square-foot setup, providing enhanced services for seniors, including ADA-accessible recreation spaces, a modern computer lab, and increased capacity for events and gatherings. The new location is also designed to include beautiful grounds dedicated to classes and activities, along with safe walking and biking trails, thereby promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle among seniors.

Membership at OASIS is affordable, costing just $35 for individuals and $60 for couples living at the same address. Members benefit from an impressive variety of over 50 wellness opportunities each month. These include fitness classes, creative arts, and educational groups that cater to a range of interests. With the new facility, OASIS expects to roll out an even wider selection of programs, including more arts and outdoor yoga classes.

OASIS serves as a vital lifeline for seniors in Northern Santa Barbara County, fulfilling its mission of keeping older adults active, informed, and integrated into the community. Each year, OASIS provides a vast array of enrichment activities, navigational resources, and social connections, promoting safety and independence. The organization is committed to reinforcing the community fabric, ensuring that growing older equates to growing together rather than isolation.

For those interested in becoming part of the OASIS family—whether as a member, volunteer, or supporter—there are numerous opportunities to engage and contribute positively to the lives of local seniors. To learn more about OASIS and their programs, visit www.oasisorcutt.org.

OASIS is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting the lives of seniors and enhancing their overall well-being within the community.

For media inquiries, please contact Frank Tortorici at (908) 875-8908 or via email at [email protected].