Our Community of Support

Our board members

  • Ashley Jenkins, Founder & Creative Director

    Ashley Jenkins is the mother of 3 young boys and is happiest playing outside. She has worked in the outdoor ed and experiential education field for over 25 years and is honored to be the Founder and current Board President of the SYV Children's Museum.

  • Jenny Stepien, Secretary

    Jenny Stepien is currently a project manager for Urquidez Construction in Solvang California. She has extensive experience in community and youth programs and has her degree in Ecology and Environmental Education. It is her passion to link the environment, outdoors, health, volunteerism and overall well-being to youth and community through experiential education.

  • Casey Birthisel, Treasurer

    Casey Birthisel brings a wealth of operational expertise and community engagement to the SYV Children’s Museum board. As Vice President of Operations for Central Coast Agriculture for eight years, he has extensive experience in project management and organizational leadership. His passion for sustainable food systems is evident in his work coordinating a CSA in Colorado and his hands-on efforts in building and advancing construction at the Buellton Community Garden. Additionally, his volunteer work with Solvang Theatre Fest highlights his dedication to local arts and culture. Casey's expertise in operations and passion for sustainability contribute to the museum’s growth and development.

  • Dave Bemis

    Dave Bemis brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the SYV Children’s Museum board. After a 35-year career as a newspaper reporter and editor, he has devoted his time to community service through organizations like the Vikings of Solvang, Los Olivos Rotary, and the Buellton Senior Center. His deep roots in the community and extensive volunteer work help strengthen the museum’s outreach and engagement efforts.

We have wonderful existing partnerships with the local organizations listed below, sharing support and a common passion for enriching the lives of children and their families.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

City of Buellton

Chumash Foundation

Valley Gardener

Central Coast Agriculture

805 Concrete

Central Coast Agriculture

Elliott & Pohls

SYV Youth Rec

Santa Barbara Foundation

SYV Foundation

Los Olivos Rotary

Solvang Rotary

SYV Rotary

Buellton Rotary

UVA Design Studios

Trellis Landscape & Interior Design

SYV Botanic Garden

Maylene Cook

MOPS

Claudia Arnett

Russell Chamberlin

Cloacina

Rachael VanPelt

SYV Community Outreach

Peake Ranch Winery

Ralph Sijl

Jennifer Skytt

Shelley Shoemaker Silva

Ted & Joan Tanner

Schlinger Family Foundation

Vreeland Ford

Granite Construction

Screechy Cat Media

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© 2026 Santa Ynez Valley Children’s Museum

The Santa Ynez Valley Children’s Museum is a not for profit organization under federal tax ID #85-1229891.