PathPoint Thanks First Responders at 1st Thursday Event

(June 18, 2018) PathPoint thanked local first responders for their efforts during the Thomas Fire and Montecito Mudslides at an evening reception in conjunction with 1st Thursday, Santa Barbara Downtown Association’s monthly evening of art and culture. Santa Barbara County Fire Department Chief Eric Peterson and Captain Dave Zaniboni were presented with an original painting depicting the Thomas Fire created by an artist with developmental disabilities. The Santa Barbara Police Department also received custom artwork and acknowledgement while the office of Assemblymember Monique Limón presented special recognition to all first responders. During the three-week Thomas Fire, PathPoint’s residential support services for people with developmental disabilities were impacted by the poor air quality and evacuation orders. Of the more than 80 people receiving those supports, 41 evacuated to safe and healthy locations.

“Between good teamwork and communication and the help of many community organizations including first responders, all the individuals we support remained safe during the Thomas Fire,” said Seth Miller, PathPoint’s South Santa Barbara Division vice president. “This was an opportunity for us to thank the first responders personally and to show our appreciation for their efforts.”

People supported by PathPoint helped in all aspects of the event, including: creating custom paintings for local fire, police, and emergency departments; distributing invitations around the community; and leading tours of PathPoint’s art studio and program office.

(Photo from left to right: Seth Miler, PathPoint South Santa Barbara Division Vice President; Dave Zaniboni, SB County Fire Dept. Public Information Officer; Sophia and Jeff, people served by PathPoint; and Eric Peterson, SB County Dept. Fire Chief.)