See more courtesy photos below.
NEWBURY PARK — Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County (Habitat Ventura) brought together more than 70 volunteers this International Women’s Day weekend for its annual Women Build event presented by Bank of America. On Saturday, March 7, volunteers gathered at a senior mobile home park in Newbury Park to complete critical repairs on six mobile homes for the senior community. Throughout the day, volunteers worked side-by-side completing interior and exterior repairs, painting, replacing stairs, and addressing any additional needs that required support.
“It had holes in the floor, it had holes in the ceiling, but it’s all I could afford to stay in the Conejo Valley,” said Barbara York, a homeowner. “It’s overwhelming to me, the goodness of these people. I’m very blessed and I’m very proud of all these people. All of them have earned angel wings in heaven as far as I’m concerned.” Barbara’s home was also selected to receive new windows in the coming weeks.
By the end of the build, volunteers had completed improvements contributing tangible, immediate impact for senior households who might otherwise struggle to afford or complete essential repairs, allowing them to age safely in place.
“We want them to be able to stay in their homes, that’s a goal for today,” said Kathy, a Women Build volunteer. Kathy has volunteered with Habitat Ventura before, participating in Playhouse Builds that provide playhouses to children of military and veteran families throughout the year.
Women Build 2026 was made possible through the generous support of presenting sponsor Bank of America and community partners who share Habitat Ventura’s commitment to creating strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. Bank of America was represented by more than thirty employees and their friends.
“As a longtime sponsor and partner with Habitat for Humanity Ventura County, we know the incredible impact the organization makes for families and the community, and we are once again proud to be part of the annual Women Build,” said Midge Campbell-Thomas, Bank of America president for Ventura-Santa Barbara. “Events like this are important as they bring the community together through volunteerism and help seniors with essential home safety and other upgrades.”
“Our senior neighbors deserve to live in safety and comfort, and they deserve to stay right here in Ventura County,” said Darcy Taylor, CEO, Habitat Ventura. “We’re grateful to each of the volunteers who gave their day to make an impact that lasts a lifetime.” In addition to the hands-on volunteer work, the event raised funds to support Habitat Ventura’s ongoing Home Repair and Homeownership programs throughout Ventura County.
Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County – Together, we build a better future. Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County is a locally run and locally funded affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. For more than 40 years, Habitat Ventura has partnered with individuals and families to build over 85 homes and repair over 400, creating safe, stable places where people can thrive. Through our Home Repair Program, we work alongside homeowners to improve the safety, accessibility, and longevity of their homes. At Habitat Ventura, we believe that home is the foundation on which we build our lives and our communities. By working together, we’re creating a stronger, more connected Ventura County. Our homeownership program partners with families based on their need for housing, ability to afford a mortgage, and commitment to participating in the building process. Each Habitat homeowner invests hundreds of hours of sweat equity and purchases their home with an affordable mortgage – building not only their own future, but the future of our shared community. www.habitatventura.org | 805-485-6065
