14 local nonprofits honored for their work supporting Ventura County residents
VENTURA COUNTY — The Foundation of Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) hosted its 3rd Annual Celebrating Our Community event on Thursday, Oct. 9, at VCCU’s corporate headquarters in Ventura, recognizing the remarkable efforts of local nonprofits and distributing a total of $100,000 in community grants.
This year’s celebration brought together community leaders, nonprofit representatives and credit union members to honor 14 grant recipients, selected from a competitive pool of 94 applications. Each recipient exemplifies The Foundation’s mission to support programs that strengthen health, education and financial well-being across Ventura County.
“Every year, we are inspired by the incredible organizations serving our community with such compassion and creativity,” said Rachel Bravo, The Foundation’s board president. “These grants are our way of giving back and helping them continue their vital work improving the lives of local families, youth and individuals in need.”
Two featured nonprofit grant recipients shared personal insights into their organizations’ impact and received an additional $2,500 check during the event:
- Dani Hutchison, CFO of Southeast Ventura County YMCA, received a $2,500 donation recognizing its dedication to youth development and healthy living.
- Brenda Heredia, board member of Nyeland Promise, accepted a $2,500 donation supporting its community outreach and empowerment programs.
The evening also included the presentation of the prestigious Roxy Ostrem Community Advocate Award, honoring Dena Jenson for her leadership at the Center for Nonprofit Leadership (CNL). The award included a $10,000 grant to CNL in recognition of its continued commitment to strengthening the region’s nonprofit sector.
The Foundation of VCCU 2025 Grant Recipients
- 4 Kids 2 Kids
- Assistance League® of Conejo Valley
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County
- Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.)
- Community Memorial Healthcare
- Creative Steps
- Gavin’s Village Foundation
- Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast
- Interface Children & Family Services
- Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association (LMVNA)
- Nyeland Promise
- Senior Veteran Home Solutions
- Social Justice Fund for Ventura County
- Southeast Ventura County YMCA
- Teen Challenge of Southern California (Ventura Chapter)
- The Samaritan Center – Simi Valley
Since its founding, The Foundation of VCCU has provided more than $500,000 in grants and donations to nonprofits serving Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. To learn more about The Foundation of VCCU or to support its mission, visit www.vccuonline.net/foundation.
About Ventura County Credit Union
Ventura County Credit Union was chartered in 1950. It is the largest credit union headquartered in Ventura County, with eight offices, more than 80,000 members and more than $1.5 billion in total assets. VCCU offers a complete line of loans, federally insured savings, 24-hour electronic access services and more. Call 1-800-339-0496 or visit http://www.vccuonline.net for more information.