On September 17, 2024, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution introduced by Supervisor Laura Capps, proclaiming Santa Barbara County as a Compassionate Community. The resolution affirms the County’s commitment to the principles of the Charter for Compassion—fostering kindness, equity, and care for all residents.

Supervisor Capps emphasized that the declaration is more than symbolic—it reflects a community-wide commitment to “extend empathy in policy and practice, ensuring that compassion is woven into the fabric of public service and daily life.”

The resolution aligns Santa Barbara County with nearly 600 communities in 55 countries that have officially endorsed the Charter for Compassion. By joining this growing movement, the County strengthens California’s leadership in promoting compassion as a foundation for civic life and global citizenship.

You can view the official resolution here.

The Charter for Compassion warmly celebrates Santa Barbara County’s leadership and welcomes its residents to the international family of Compassionate Communities working to build a kinder, more connected world.