Local Businessman Contributes 10 Acres for Senior Community Development

In a heartwarming act of community support, local entrepreneur Len Knight has made a significant donation of ten acres of land to OASIS (Orcutt Area Seniors in Service), a volunteer-oriented nonprofit located in Northern Santa Barbara County. This generous gesture, coinciding with OASIS's 40th anniversary, aims to enhance public spaces for seniors and families in Orcutt.

About three years ago, Knight and his son, Matthew, purchased multiple land parcels adjacent to Orcutt Creek, envisioning a community space that catered to the recreational needs of residents. Recognizing a clear shortage of publicly accessible areas, they sought to create a solution that would benefit all community members.

Approximately 18 months ago, Knight approached Michelle Southwick, the Executive Director of OASIS, with a proposal. His intention was clear: to donate the land with the stipulation that it would not be developed into housing but instead transformed into a public area fully open to the community. Southwick expressed her gratitude, stating, "Len's offer was genuine and came from a desire to improve the quality of life within Orcutt."

Knight has been a regular supporter of OASIS, contributing financially to operational costs on an annual basis. The current plan for the donated land includes the construction of a half-mile walking and biking trail, expansive green lawn areas, serene meditation gardens ideal for yoga sessions, as well as picnic tables and large barbecue facilities for community events.

Having been actively involved in numerous community projects, including the restoration of Mussell Fort in Tepusquet Canyon, Knight's commitment to enhancing local quality of life resonates deeply within the community. With the newly acquired property, OASIS will be able to expand its operations significantly, catering to community members young and old, and fostering interactions between generations.

Furthermore, the Orcutt Library is set to share part of the land, allowing families and seniors to engage in community activities. Southwick remarked on the opportunities for intergenerational connection: seniors can read stories to toddlers or assist high school students with college preparation. High school students will also participate actively, taking part in OASIS's initiatives like aquaponic gardening and smartphone training.

In a significant development, Southwick confirmed that Santa Barbara County is set to acquire five acres from OASIS, which will then be leased back at a minimal cost, significantly reducing annual maintenance expenses. "This partnership will enable us to enhance our programming while saving considerable money for upkeep," she added. This financial support will also go towards the County covering initial site work, further easing OASIS's financial strain.

The donation from the Knight family is projected to bolster OASIS’s Capital Campaign, unlocking additional resources for programming aimed at improving the senior community’s well-being. Kathleen Sullivan, Vice President of Post-Acute Care at Dignity Health, applauded this collaboration, reinforcing OASIS as a vital resource for seniors looking to lead fulfilling lives. Her organization has committed $200,000 towards the campaign, emphasizing that this initiative is not merely about constructing a new center, but about enriching the entire community’s future.

Festivities marking OASIS's 40th anniversary have already begun, featuring a themed luau party in August, with more celebrations planned, including a non-traditional St. Patrick's Day gala in March 2026.

During its landmark anniversary year, OASIS is also anticipating groundbreaking on a new 14,000-square-foot building to be an upgrade from its existing facilities, offering a plethora of new services aimed at enhancing seniors' health and lifestyle. Planned improvements include ADA-accessible recreational facilities and state-of-the-art computer labs to keep seniors engaged with technology.

With over 50 programs scheduled monthly, OASIS remains a beacon of activity for seniors, from aerobics to ceramics. The future promises even more expanded offerings with new art classes and outdoor activities expected.

OASIS stands as a dedicated resource for seniors, affirmatively stating that aging should welcome communal growth rather than isolation. By providing safe and welcoming spaces, OASIS helps local seniors stay active, informed, and connected with their surroundings, proving that community spirit can make a difference at any age.

For more information, visit OASIS.