Hillside Appoints New Executive Director

Source: Hillside

Hillside, the residential care facility for adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in Santa Barbara, is pleased to announce the selection of Michael S. Rassler as its new Executive Director. Prior to his appointment, Rassler was the Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara for more than 10 years.

Over the course of his Federation career spanning more than thirty-five years, Rassler has participated in or led Annual, Capital, Endowment, Israel Emergency and other Special Campaigns that have generated over $360 million to benefit Jewish communities, local, national and overseas agencies, and critical causes.

“We are excited to welcome Michael Rassler, who brings experience, compassion and vision at this crucial time with the pandemic, and our plans to redevelop Hillside’s facilities and property,” said Board Chair Brad Frohling. “Looking towards the future, I am confident Michael, who has spent his career serving others, will ensure Hillside residents receive the best quality of life possible.”

With extensive experience in nonprofit management as well as core competencies in strategic planning, community engagement and project management, Rassler holds three master’s degrees: Business Administration from Miami University, Ohio; Jewish Studies from Baltimore Hebrew College; and Social Work with a concentration in Community Planning & Social Administration from the University of Maryland.

“Hillside’s future requires a multi-dimensional leader who has the heart for adults with disabilities, and the business experience necessary to create an integrated, mixed ability community for our residents and the public. We are grateful Michael has the determination to move this vision to reality,” shared Board Vice-Chair Norris Goss.

At this time, Hillside would like to express its heartfelt thanks to our residents including Chris and David in the photo below, their families and loved ones, dedicated staff members like Ashley in the photo, donors, supporters, friends, volunteers, community partners, vendors, and so many others for their continued support. It means everything, especially during this ongoing pandemic.

For information, please visit hillsidesb.org or contact Michael Padden-Rubin, Director of Development, at 805-687-0788 x115 or mpaddenrubin@hillsidesb.org. To make a gift to benefit Hillside residents, please visit hillsidesb.org/donate. Thank you.