What is the KIDS Network?

The KIDS Network is a planning and program development body created by the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors in 1991 to advise them on children, youth and family issues. It also operates as a countywide network of agencies and individuals dedicated to implementing comprehensive, collaborative and integrated services for children, youth and families. Standing and ad-hoc committees work on strategies to address a variety of issues.

The KIDS Network Vision for Children

"All children will grow up in safe, healthy and nurturing homes, schools and communities. Their resultant sense of self-worth, along with equal access to resources, will empower children to develop their unique potential, with a strong sense of responsibility to self, culture and society."

The KIDS Network's Mission

... is to provide comprehensive, collaborative community services to children, youth and families by:

  • improving coordination, planning, communication and cooperation among service agencies;
  • identifying gaps and overlaps in services;
  • providing a forum for clarifying perceptions and expectations among and between county agencies and the community;
  • setting priorities for interagency projects;
  • implementing collaborative programs, public and private, to better serve children, youth and families; and
  • attracting resources from both the public and private sectors to meet children, youth and families' need

Our Leadership

The KIDS Network is chaired by Supervisor Joan Hartmann. The Community Vice Chair is Georgene Lowe. The KIDS Network Manager is Barbara Finch.

How to Become a Member or Get more Information

All our meetings are open to the public. We welcome all individuals or agency representatives living or working in Santa Barbara County with a particular interest in the well-being of families and children as members or guests. To become a member or if you would like more information on the KIDS Network or to be added to our e-mail distribution list, please contact us by phone (805) 681-4452 or via e-mail.