People Helping People (PHP), the leading nonprofit social services provider in the Santa Ynez Valley, proudly announces its Board of Directors’ leadership slate for the 2025–2026 fiscal year.
Becky Barieau will continue her dedicated service as Board President, bringing steady leadership and a deep commitment to community well-being. John Kuelbs, a longtime supporter and visionary philanthropist, will assume the role of Vice President. Joyce Talmadge will continue as Board Secretary, offering consistency and strong organizational stewardship, while Francisca Escobar will serve another term as Treasurer, providing thoughtful fiscal oversight during a time of growth and investment.
Becky and her husband, Billy Wathen, have deepened their philanthropic support tenfold during her tenure—support that is amplified by the continued commitment of Foxen Vineyard & Winery, which they co-founded. Their leadership has helped catalyze a new era of momentum for PHP, blending service and stewardship with community generosity.
“As we step into this new chapter, I am profoundly grateful for the commitment and leadership of this board,” said Erica Jane Flores, CEO of People Helping People. “Becky leads with humility and heart, and our entire board models what it means to serve with purpose.”
This year, PHP is undertaking critical exterior renovations to its Solvang headquarters and launching a corresponding capital fundraiser.
These efforts are paired with strategic initiatives to build capacity as a Medi-Cal provider under California’s CalAIM framework, grow the organization’s endowment, and launch a long-awaited rebuild of PHP’s website to better reflect its services, values, and community stories.
“With the board’s leadership and the community’s partnership, PHP is strengthening its foundation and expanding its reach,” Flores said. “We are positioning ourselves to meet the moment—and the future—with compassion, dignity, and resilience.”
For more information go to syvphp.org
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