Welcome to
The Pighetti Project
Real support for the ones who always show up.
The Pighetti Project is a volunteer-led nonprofit rooted in Santa Barbara, created to support first responders and their families with project-based care.
Founded in memory of retired firefighter Tony Pighetti, our mission is to bring compassion, healing, and practical tools to the people who protect us every day. Through initiatives like equine therapy, peer support training, and family retreats, we focus on the overlooked emotional and relational needs of first responders—especially after the crisis has passed.
Tony believed that asking for help wasn’t weakness—it was wisdom. He spent his life quietly advocating for mental wellness, open conversation, and better systems of support. We carry that work forward, one meaningful project at a time.
A Note from
the Pighetti Family
As a first responder family, we’ve lived the reality that service is both a sacrifice and a source of pride. We’ve known the joy that comes from purpose—and the weight that often follows it. We've seen firsthand how the challenges faced by first responders don’t end when the uniform comes off.
That’s why we created The Pighetti Project.
In honor of Tony—our husband, father, and friend—we are committed to offering project-based support that serves both the first responder and the family standing beside them. Whether it’s a moment of rest, a safe space to talk, or a resource that meets a specific need, we believe in helping one by one—with compassion, clarity, and care. This work is personal. It’s purposeful. And it’s just the beginning.
With Gratitude,
Andrea, Josh, Jake & Paige Pighetti
What We Do at
The Pighetti Project
We believe in meeting people where they are—with real, practical support that makes a lasting difference. Each of our programs is designed to respond to the often-unspoken needs of first responders and their families. Every initiative is personal, focused, and built to create healing.
Peer Support Training
Peer Support — trained first responders offer vital, peer-to-peer support after traumatic events and during everyday struggles. For the first time, this proven training is being extended to spouses and partners. On July 19th, 2025 we will offer tools to strengthen and support home life. Click here to request more details on participating in this training.
Equine Therapy
Equine Therapy enhances emotional healing and self confidence. By offering this support to our first responders they gain the tools to heal and be present. Studies have shown that equine-based programs sharpen and improve empathy, non-verbal communication, self-confidence, negotiation and partnering skills.
Retreats to Reconnect
A unique opportunity to reconnect with one’s family is an invaluable opportunity. Having a place in nature, with time to create new memories is sometimes the first step in strengthening the relationships within a family.
Please contact us if you would like to offer your property for a few days to a responder.
Support The Work.
Honor the Legacy.
Your donation goes directly to supporting first responders and their families through real, project-based care—just as Tony would have wanted.Whether it's funding a weekend retreat, providing equine therapy sessions, or offering peer support training to a first responder’s spouse, every dollar has purpose. Every gift tells someone: you're not alone.
One-Time Donation – Make an immediate impact
Recurring Monthly Gift – Provide steady, ongoing support
All donations are securely processed through The Santa Barbara Foundation, ensuring transparency and trust every step of the way.
A Celebration of
Tony’s Life & Legacy
On Sunday, April 27th, 2025, we gathered with Tony Pighetti’s friends, fellow first responders, and members of the Santa Barbara community to celebrate what would have been his 60th birthday.
It was a day of remembrance, reflection, and deep gratitude—a moment to honor the life of a man who gave so much to others, and to feel the lasting impact he continues to have. We’re especially thankful to Matt Kustura, who filled the beach with Tony’s favorite music, creating the kind of atmosphere Tony loved: open, warm, and full of connection.
To everyone who showed up in person or in spirit—thank you for helping us keep his memory alive.
You can help without
making a financial
donation
Tony loved his Santa Barbara Community and The Pighetti Project is going to be offering lots of opportunities to get involved! From volunteering at one of our First Responder Appreciation events, to helping us with specific outreach programs, we welcome your participation and would love to learn more about you.
Past Projects
Socks, Support, and a
Visit from Donuts 🐾
Our recent campaign to collect new wool socks for L.A. firefighters received an outpouring of generosity from across the country. Thanks to the support of REI Santa Barbara, REI Oxnard, and the Deckers Showcase, we were able to collect and deliver hundreds of high-quality socks to the brave men and women on the front lines.
To top it off, the firefighters received a surprise visit from Donuts the therapy dog, who brought even more smiles (and tail wags) to the day.
Thank you to everyone who gave, shared, and showed up. Small comforts make a big difference—especially for those who give so much, so often.
Contact Us
Whether you have a question, want to get involved, or simply want to learn more—we’d love to hear from you.
We’re a small team, but we read every message and do our best to respond quickly.
Let’s stay connected.