Victoria Brady and CEDC Board. Photos courtesy of Cabrillo Economic Development Corp.
Evening honors the legacy of Dolores Huerta and launches “Tile the Future,” a resident-painted mural for Dolores Huerta Gardens
VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. (Cabrillo EDC) marked its 45th anniversary with its inaugural Roots & Roofs celebration, an evening market and program on Thursday, Nov. 5 at Camarillo Ranch. The evening brought together residents, community partners, sponsors, elected officials, and supporters. Built around the idea that strong roots create the foundation for a stronger future, the evening paired a look back at Cabrillo’s history with a preview of the more than 500 homes now in its pipeline.
“Building community is about more than housing. It’s about dignity, opportunity, and creating a better future for generations to come,” said Victoria Brady, CEO of Cabrillo EDC. “A roof provides shelter. But strong roots create belonging, opportunity, and a future.”
More than 4,000 residents call Cabrillo EDC developments home, living in 27 communities that include over 1,300 apartment homes. Through case management, advocacy, and community partnerships, our Resident and Community Services team also supports more than 3,500 residents each year.
The program also honored the life and legacy of Dolores Huerta, a champion for farmworkers and social justice, with an ofrenda. Her legacy is closely tied to Cabrillo’s own history, and the Dolores Huerta Gardens community is named in her honor.
Residents Anahi Diaz and Esperanza Solano shared personal stories of what a stable home has meant for them at Cabrillo EDC developments, like Dolores Huerta Gardens. Esperanza, a farmworker, shared how her family was able to move on from a small studio apartment with unsuitable living conditions for her children, into the home she always dreamed of while fighting injustices at work.
“I want to thank Dolores Huerta for the path she helped pave for farmworkers,” said Esperanza. “Her legacy reminds us that change begins with ordinary people who have strong hearts, powerful voices, and the courage to never give up. ¡Sí se puede!”
Anahi remembered her childhood at a Cabrillo EDC development fondly, recognizing the impact that affordable housing had on her family and the opportunities she was given. “I think we underestimate how much of an impact affordable housing can have,” said Anahi. “It’s not just about having lower rent. It’s about giving parents the opportunity to be present, children the freedom to enjoy their childhood, and families the chance to build lasting memories.”
The evening also launched “Tile the Future”, a hand-painted tile mural planned for Dolores Huerta Gardens. The project draws on the tile shop once run by the Cabrillo Improvement Association, Cabrillo’s predecessor, during the rehabilitation of the original 80 farmworker homes at Cabrillo Village. For the 45th anniversary, 45 residents painted tiles that reflect their own stories.
Cabrillo EDC also previewed its development pipeline, including Camino de Salud in the Ojai Valley, with 49 supportive and affordable homes, and Chaparral Place, with 50 homes for farmworker and low-income families. In addition, Cabrillo EDC is working to bring 567 apartments to communities from Ventura and Santa Paula to Santa Barbara, Fontana, and San Bernardino, in partnership with organizations including Ventura Housing, Homes & Hope, and Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services (NPHS).
Board President Aiza Galdo thanked the Board of Directors and event sponsors, including Neighborhood Partners sponsors Banc of California, Bank of America and Bank of the Sierra, as well as Market Plaza sponsor Primus Building Solutions. McCarthy Companies was recognized as a Cabrillo Legacy Builder for its year-long commitment to the mission.
Distinguished guests included Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer for the County of Ventura, Tie Gutierrez, City of Thousand Oaks Councilmember representing District 5, and Martita Martinez-Bravo, Vice Mayor of the City of Camarillo. Lisa Hasegawa and Donna Wright of NeighborWorks America also attended.
About Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation
Cabrillo EDC is the largest developer of affordable homes in Ventura County. Cabrillo’s success is the result of decades of passion, dedication and vision. With a mission of providing comprehensive housing services and community economic development activities, Cabrillo facilitates self-sufficiency for individuals and families who are lacking most in opportunity. Since its founding in 1981, the organization has been committed to providing affordable housing solutions and creating sustainable communities for those in need. Cabrillo EDC works with a range of stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, and community organizations, to address the housing needs of underserved populations.
Sarah McCarthy, McCarthy Companies.
Victoria Brady.
Victoria, Edwin, Bianca with residents.
Victoria Brady and Bank of America
