Visiting grantors to Cabrillo Village in 1979. Photos courtesy of Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. (Cabrillo EDC)
VENTURA COUNTY — On Sept. 28, Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) celebrated its 45th anniversary, marking more than four decades of developing and managing service-enriched, inclusive residential communities, ensuring access to affordable, secure, quality housing that creates the foundation for residents to grow and thrive. Founded in 1981 by a community of farmworker families who organized to save their own homes from eviction, Cabrillo EDC has grown into the largest developer of affordable housing in Ventura County, with a mission that now extends into Santa Barbara and San Bernardino Counties. Today, Cabrillo EDC manages 27 properties throughout Southern California.
“Over forty-five years ago, a group of farmworker families worked together to protect their homes, and everything we have built since carries that same spirit forward,” said Victoria Brady, Chief Executive Officer of Cabrillo EDC. “This milestone belongs to the residents who have trusted us, the staff who have dedicated their careers to this mission, and the partners and supporters who have stood beside us through decades of growth. We are proud of how far we have come, and just as excited about what the next 45 years will bring.”
Cabrillo EDC traces its roots to 1975, when 80 farmworker families at Cabrillo Village Labor Camp in Saticoy faced eviction from grower-owned land. Rather than lose their homes, the families organized, pooled their resources, and purchased the land in 1976, forming the Cabrillo Improvement Association. Over the following years, the association rehabilitated homes, built new housing, and offered social services and job training, laying the groundwork for Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation, formally established in 1981. In 1999, Cabrillo EDC was chartered into NeighborWorks America, a designation it has held for more than 25 years.
Looking ahead, Cabrillo EDC plans to grow its pipeline of affordable housing developments both within Ventura County as well as into neighboring counties, continuing 45 years of work while adapting to meet the needs of the communities it serves.
Cabrillo EDC will celebrate the milestone with an inaugural community event, Roots & Roofs 2026: Celebrating 45 Years of Cultivating Community & Building Opportunity, on Thursday, November 5th, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Camarillo Ranch (201 Camarillo Ranch Road, Camarillo). Inspired by the spirit of our agricultural roots, the event will feature market-style booths, locally inspired food and beverages, and entertainment, along with opportunities to learn how affordable housing and service-enriched programs help individuals and families thrive. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at https://www.cabrilloedc.org/roots-and-roofs/.
As part of its 45th anniversary, Cabrillo EDC has also unveiled a redesigned website featuring a refreshed look and improved user experience. The new site makes it easier for residents, partners and community members to find the information and resources they need, supporting Cabrillo EDC’s ongoing commitment to strengthening communities and expanding access to stable, affordable homes in California.
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.