Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People CEO announces retirement

SOLVANG, Calif. - The leader of the Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People (PHP) Dean Palius announced his decision to step down as CEO starting at the end of August.

Palius served as CEO of the nonprofit organization for 25 years. The Board of Directors reluctantly accepted Palius’ resignation and said they understand and support his decision to change his pace of life.

“The Board is extraordinarily grateful for the quarter century that Dean dedicated to building a highly regarded and respected organization that has made such a profound difference in the lives of so many. He has graciously agreed to stay with PHP to advise the Board on the recruitment and selection of his successor,” said PHP Board President Francisca Escobar.

Palius received a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors at Humboldt State University. He followed that with a Master of Arts degree from UCSB with an emphasis in public administration and public law.

PHP said that Palius dedicated his work at PHP to positively impact the lives of those less fortunate. He was able to create partnerships, resources, and initiatives that focus on helping individuals and families “get back on their feet” and then supporting them to further improve their lives.

During Palius' 25 year tenure, PHP grew from two to eighteen programs and from an $80,000 budget to a $2.3 million one which includes $500,000 annually in donations of food, Christmas toys, office space and professional services.

Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People is nonprofit provider of human and social services in mid Santa Barbara County. They service people in Buellton, Solvang, Santa Ynez, Ballard, Los Olivos, Los Alamos, the Gaviota Coast and some of the Lompoc Valley.

PHP is located at 545 N. Alisal Road, Suite 102, in Solvang. For more information you can visit their website at www.syvphp.org.