Unity Shoppe Holds Star-Studded Telethon
Event Raises Funds for Assistance Provided to Low-Income Individuals
On December 10th, a venerable Santa Barbara institution, Unity Shoppe, held its 30th annual star-studded Telethon to support its year-round provision of food, clothing, and other items and services to low-income members of the community.
Held at its Sola Street facility, the Telethon was broadcast live on KEYT and featured live performances and interviews as well as video clips from its 100th Anniversary Party held in September at the Granada Theatre. Turning out to show their support were many business leaders, community leaders and philanthropists, including Anne and Michael Towbes, Jelinda and Barry De Vorzon, Janet Garufis, Kenny Kahn, and David Borgatello. Live performances included American Idol star Gabriela Sepúlveda, songwriter Bridget Benenate, and the Pacific Sound Chorus. There were video clips from the Granada of Kenny Loggins, who in 1987 persuaded KEYT to broadcast the first Telethon, and who has participated in every Telethon since. Loggins shared his passion for Unity and performed alone and with Jim Messina. Other clips included the Beach Boys’ Bruce Johnston, Lois Mahalia, “Singing Cop” Dave Gonzales, and Barry De Vorzon.
Some of the volunteers staffing the phone banks have participated since the first Telethon, others traveled across the country to help out. While the support for Unity Shoppe runs deep and wide, so does the need for its services. So far this year, Unity has served nearly 20,000 people, with another 2,000 expected through the end of the year.
