Category: Business

AMR Ventura County paramedic and EMT receive recognition for life-saving CPR incident

VENTURA COUNTY — Following a nationally recognized day of giving thanks, American Medical Response Ventura County (AMR) and its affiliate Gold Coast Ambulance (Gold Coast) leadership hosted a private presentation on Nov. 29, to award CPR Save certificates to one of its crews for the life-saving support they provided this past March.

When a female patient in her 50s experienced cardiac arrest on March 30, 2024, AMR paramedic Johnny Villegas and EMT partner Brooke Keeling, along with Gold Coast paramedic intern, Nathanael McCourt — training with AMR — quickly responded on-scene to administer life-saving hands-only CPR aid.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Red Flag Warning Dec. 9-11

The National Weather Service is forecasting a dangerous wind event for Ventura County Monday December 9 – Wednesday December 11, and has issued a Red Flag Warning.

Winds are expected to start Monday afternoon, peaking during the early morning hours Tuesday, and tapering off by late Wednesday. The current forecast is calling for sustained winds at 35mph, with a potential for gusts to 60mph.

In addition to wind, very low relative humidity ranging from 5%-7% is anticipated, with no overnight recovery. While the impact of winds will cover most of Ventura County, the current forecast calls for high intensity conditions in Thousand Oaks, Piru and Fillmore.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Mountain Fire Recovery

As many members of our community are recovering from the Mountain Fire we have an opportunity to help a local farm that makes a big impact on the lives of many community members. You’re invited to help Mulberry Lane Farm with a Holiday Wreath-Making Workshop!

Come and join my office and community members throughout the county in supporting Mulberry Lane Farm and its inspiring mission. This small farm in Somis is home to The Upside of Downs, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with special needs in our community.

Through their Up on the Farm day program, participants engage in hands-on, hearts-in agricultural learning. They gain new skills, practice old-fashioned farming methods, and build meaningful connections with nature and one another—all while accompanied by caregivers, parents or job coaches. This incredible program, offered at no cost, provides a space for special needs adults to thrive and contribute in a way that uplifts our entire community.

Danielle Brinkman, CPA, launches accounting firm in Ojai and Oxnard

VENTURA COUNTY — Danielle Brinkman-Mallare, a chartered public accountant with over 20 years of experience, has launched her own accounting business with offices in Ojai and Oxnard.

Brinkman-Mallare has spent more than two decades helping her clients navigate the constantly changing tax system. Her expertise spans tax planning, preparation, and accounting for the service industry, manufacturing, retail and real estate sectors. She also has significant experience with trusts and estates. 

Agromin To Recycle Thousands Of Christmas Trees After The Holidays

OXNARD — Once the holidays are over, Oxnard-based composter Agromin will receive thousands of Christmas trees collected by waste haulers. The trees will be composted into mulch and soil amendments for use by growers, landscapers and consumers.

To help make the tree collection process run smoother, tree owners are asked to cut up their Christmas trees so limbs and branches fit in their green waste recycling barrel. Waste haulers will collect the trees on regular waste pick-up days and deliver them to Agromin.

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital Earn an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group

“We are incredibly proud that both Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital have earned an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group,” said Ron Werft, President & CEO of Cottage Health. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team to ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and care.”

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — First Look: 2023-24 Annual Impact Report | Primera vista: Informe de Impacto Anual 2023-24

We’re excited to share our 2023-24 Annual Impact Report, showcasing our milestones from the past year! Available in both English & Spanish, you can read the report and learn more about our mission at pshhc.org/impactreport.

Nos complace presentar nuestro Informe Anual de Impacto 2023-24, que muestra nuestros logros del año pasado. Disponible tanto en inglés como en español, puede leer el informe y obtener más información sobre nuestra misión en pshhc.org/impactreport-esp.

Bilingual report — Volunteers needed for annual Homeless Point-In-Time count

The annual Homeless Count is coordinated by the Ventura County Continuum of Care and County of Ventura, in partnership with community partners and cities.  The survey data will be collected through a mobile survey and mapping tool called Simtech Solutions “Counting Us”.  This data provides a Point-In-Time (PIT) “snapshot” as to what the homeless population in Ventura County looks like during a single day. This data helps community leaders better understand who is homeless, why and for how long. The survey data helps our community gain access to state and federal funding, as well as determine the greatest priorities to prevent and end homelessness in Ventura County.

Bilingual report ‚ Ventura County Certifies Nov. 5, 2024 Presidential General Election

VENTURA — Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion announced today the official certification of the November 5, 2024 Presidential General Election. A total of 394,197 ballots were cast in the general election; with 84.17% of the voters utilizing their vote-by-mail ballot and 15.83% voting in person. Ventura County had a 76.25% overall voter turnout for this election.

The November 2024 General Election marks Ventura County’s fourth election conducted under the Voter’s Choice Act (VCA) election model. It also marks a significant increase in the number of voters taking advantage of the expanded voting opportunities provided under the VCA.

Metal Supermarket now open Saturdays in Newbury Park

NEWBURY PARK — Local contractors working on a residential project, multinational companies requiring large-scale orders, or hobbyists working on car restorations and other creations at home, can now access the convenience of purchasing metal from Metal Supermarkets on Saturdays.

Community Environmental Council — Receive tax benefits for your year-end donation

Receive tax benefits for your year-end donation
If you are 70½ years of age or older, you can transfer up to $100,000 from your IRA to the Community Environmental Council (CEC) as a charitable gift, reducing taxable income and satisfying your required minimum distribution (RMD) for the year.

CSUCI receives $1.7 million grant to help students facing homelessness

“If you have nowhere to stay, you didn’t sleep, you didn’t get a shower and you didn’t get something to eat, you’re not going to be able to pay attention,” said Vice President of Student Affairs Eboni Ford Turnbow. “Maybe you don’t have a place to study once the library closes. Programs like Basic Needs help offset this burden, whether its food, emergency funds or shelter. And now our Basic Needs Program is so robust.”

Bilingual report — U.S. Small Business Administration to provide assistance to residents affected by the Mountain Fire

“We are pleased that the SBA will be on-site and available to provide guidance and individual support to residents affected by the Mountain Fire,” stated Melissa Livingston, Director of the Human Service Agency and Coordinator for the Local Assistance Center. “The financial assistance that will be offered through the SBA is an essential element of the recovery process for our community and will do much to help support residents as they navigate the financial impacts of recovery and rebuilding.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

SCORE: YEAR-END FINANCIAL REVIEW WITH QUICKBOOKS ONLINE

December 3 @ 10:30 am

Prepare for year-end with a comprehensive financial review using QuickBooks Online. EDC Small Business Development Center Advisor, Accounting Expert and QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor Juliana Ramirez from JR Bookkeeping will cover closing the books, reviewing financial health and preparing for tax season.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Guest contribution — The Ultimate Holiday Guide To Lompoc On California’s Central Coast

LOMPOC — It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Looking for festive fun, delicious treats, and unforgettable sights in Lompoc this holiday season? Dive into our roundup of festive delights and seasonal fun for you and your crew, and enjoy a magical holiday season.

Friendship Center — Matching memories

As the season of giving approaches, we at Friendship Center are excited to announce the launch of our Matching Memories campaign, a special initiative to raise funds for our nonprofit and help continue the meaningful work we do each day.

At Friendship Center, we strive to be a place where older adults with dementia feel safe, included, and supported, while also having fun and making lasting memories. For our members, it’s not just about the activities—it’s about creating an environment where they can continue to enjoy the things they once loved and also make new memories to cherish.

8 Must-See Murals In Lompoc California Along California’s Central Coast

LOMPOC — History buffs and art aficionados, start planning your trip to Lompoc. The city is home to over 30 murals depicting aspects of the town’s history, from the age of dinosaurs and beyond! Here are 8 of our favorite murals to explore when you get here as part of Lompoc’s outdoor mural gallery. 

Here’s a mural map to help you plan your journey!

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces Small Business Saturday

HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

With Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday approaching, the 2024 holiday shopping season is about to begin! According to the 2023 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey commissioned by American Express, last year, approximately $17 billion was spent on independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday. 

Local small business purchases this holiday season make a big difference for your neighbors and community. Now is a critical time to encourage friends, family members and local businesses to shop local and join the Small Business Saturday movement!

Rain or Shine, the Port of Hueneme continues ‘Committed to Community’ With Turkey and Food Drives

PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme hosted a food drive at Southwinds Park alongside community partners Lujan Transportation Services, Lucha Inc., Southwinds Neighborhood Council, and others. For the fifth year in a row, the Port joined local community efforts to provide residents of the Southwinds neighborhood, and surrounding communities, with food for the holidays. With Thanksgiving Day fast approaching, families were given a variety of food items for their holiday celebrations. The event occurred in “rain or shine” fashion and many folks brought their umbrellas and rain covers. With musical performances by the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center, community volunteers organized by the Port of Hueneme provided 300 local families with turkeys and bundles of food. Residents took home food items, cooking oil, and lettuce. The bundles of food also included items such as rice, beans, the Port’s signature bananas, and more.

Kaiser Permanente Announces 2025 Rose Parade® Float, ‘More Healthy Days for More Healthy Years’

PASADENA — Kaiser Permanente (which operates Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura) has announced its 2025 Rose Parade® float theme, “More Healthy Days for More Healthy Years.” The theme represents Kaiser Permanente’s belief that everyone should have the opportunity to live their best, healthiest life every day. The float celebrates total health – body, mind, and spirit – and how Kaiser Permanente supports the health and wellbeing of its members and communities.

This year, Kaiser Permanente’s 19th annual float entry embodies the 2025 Rose Parade presented by Honda theme, “Best Day Ever,” celebrating life’s best moments. The float symbolizes a day of healthy living, featuring a sun at one end and a moon at the other, with various healthy activities in between. The float includes depictions of nutritious foods, physical activity, and mental wellness for people of all ages and abilities.

Ventura County Supervisor Jeff Gorell District 2 Update – Mountain Fire and Community Resources

This Thanksgiving, I want to share how grateful I am to be part of a community that shows such extraordinary strength, compassion, and resilience—especially in the face of challenges like the Mountain Fire. For many of our neighbors, this season has been unimaginably difficult. If you’ve been affected, please know I am here to support you every step of the way.

Next week, we’ll be holding a Phase 2 Debris Removal Workshop to help residents navigate the next steps in recovering and rebuilding their properties. It’s part of an on going effort to make sure you have the tools and resources you need to move forward.

If you need assistance, resources like 211 and Food Share are available for you. For those looking to give back, donations and volunteer efforts are a powerful way to make an impact. Donations can be made with the Ventura County Community Foundation for the Wildfire Relief and Recovery Fund or you can learn about volunteer needs through the United Way volunteer program.

I continue to be moved by the stories of generosity and resilience that define our community. A neighbor using water from their pool to help protect a home before evacuating. First responders carrying disabled residents to safety. Volunteers standing shoulder to shoulder with families, helping sift through the ashes of what was lost. Past fire victims gathering with those currently impacted, sharing insights, lessons, and hope.

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — This Thanksgiving Week, Let’s Honor Immigrant Farmworkers

With the approach of Thanksgiving, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the people who make this holiday possible. Many of the fruits, vegetables, and other staples of our Thanksgiving feasts are harvested by immigrant farm workers. 

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Giving Thanks

Happy Thanksgiving, from my family to yours!

This year, I hope we can all reflect on why we celebrate this holiday. It’s the celebration of the first harvest in the New World by the Pilgrims. The Pilgrims settled in America to escape religious persecution and seek opportunity. The story of Native Americans welcoming them with open arms is a vital part of our history that we should not forget. Understandably, given the Navajo half of my family, what happened next also leaves us with many mixed feelings. But the symbol of Thanksgiving nevertheless defines who we strive to be.

Just as America has been the destination of people all over the world who seek refuge from danger and to build a better life, intolerance towards those people has also always been a part of American history. We have to remember that no American unless you are purely Native, belongs here more than any other one. At our best, we are the country where people go to escape persecution, not the country that persecutes people for originating somewhere else. May our arms stay open, as the Pilgrims encountered some 400 years ago.

Lumina Alliance Receives Generous $75,000 Donation from Dignity Health Central Coast to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Alliance, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering those impacted by sexual assault and intimate partner violence, is thrilled to announce a generous unrestricted donation of $75,000 from Dignity Health Central Coast. This gift will help further the organization’s mission to provide prevention education programs and critical services, including advocacy , therapy , emergency shelter , and legal support for survivors in San Luis Obispo County.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Chief Darin Schindler to retire after decades of service

“Reflecting on my years with the Ventura Police Department, I feel immensely grateful for the privilege to serve this community and work alongside such dedicated and talented individuals—both our sworn officers and professional staff,” shared Chief Schindler. “Ventura has been more than just a place to work; it’s been home. I am thankful for the many relationships I’ve built with our residents, business owners, and local leaders, and for the opportunities to work together to make our city a safer, stronger community. It has truly been an honor to serve Ventura.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Prof. Meghan Morrissey honored by the American Cancer Society for her work on cancer immunotherapy’ and more news, events

Morrissey is among those pioneering a new kind of immunotherapy, and her efforts have earned her the recognition of the American Cancer Society.

Museum of Ventura County — Help inspire hope and foster connection

Small Business Saturday

at the Ag Museum

Saturday, November 30

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

@Agriculture Museum

926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula

Join us at the Ag this Small Business Saturday to discover unique gifts, jewelry, specialty food items, and more. Shoppers will also enjoy a 15% discount on purchases!

City of Santa Paula Welcomes Dale Goodman as New Public Works Director

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to announce the appointment of Dale Goodman as its new Public Works Director. Goodman brings over 23 years of extensive experience in public works leadership across California, Oregon, and Utah, making him an invaluable asset to the City as it embarks on several critical infrastructure and road projects. 

Goodman’s expertise spans a wide range of public works disciplines, including engineering, streets, traffic safety, water, wastewater, parks, fleet, solid waste, and building inspection. His leadership will play a key role in advancing Santa Paula’s ongoing initiatives such as the Pavement Management Plan (PMP) and the City’s comprehensive efforts to enhance its streets, water systems, and sewer infrastructure. 

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces free event and webinar schedule

SCORE: STRATEGIES FOR OVERWHELMED AND OVERTHINKING ENTREPRENEURS

November 26 @ 10:00 am

There are two reasons that the business of “working on your small business” rarely gets done. The first is that you are overwhelmed because you’re responsible for everything. Even if you can delegate, you still must check the work and make sure it’s done correctly. That takes a toll. The other half of that equation is when you do get into action to improve your business, you are shown dozens of options. This causes you to overthink your decisions. In this webinar, SCORE will look at ways you can solve these problems in your business with easy-to-implement solutions. Everyone who attends will receive a copy of, “The Marketing Checklist 4: Your Guide for Overwhelmed and Overthinking Entrepreneurs.”

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Air Pollution Control District program seeks to replace polluting tools

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is paying for residents and organizations to swap their polluting gasoline- and diesel-powered landscaping equipment with new zero-emission cordless electric tools.

The Lawn & Garden Equipment Exchange Program will provide a total of $937,500 in vouchers to Ventura County residents, businesses, nonprofit organizations, public agencies and public schools. Landscaping businesses and nonprofits can be based outside of Ventura County in California but must derive at least half of their revenue from within the county.

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) announces Intake Forms Available December 2 for Home Ownership in San Miguel | Los formularios de admisión están disponibles el 2 de diciembre

Located in San Miguel, San Luis Obispo County, this new development will see a group of owner-builders constructing 14 single-story homes located at the end of N Street, south of 11th Street. Each home will have 3 or 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a two-car garage. They will also come equipped with energy-efficient features and PV solar.  

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC) announces a Donation Match for Sustainability

Today, the SJFVC Board of Directors launches a match opportunity. We will match your donation dollar-for-dollar up to a maximum of $8,656 through December 31, 2024. Please take advantage of this chance to make your donation more impactful. Your $250 contribution becomes $500, for example. Click below to “Donate Now” or send a check to Social Justice Fund for Ventura County, P.O. Box 1271, Camarillo, CA 93011.

Port of Hueneme — CAREGIVERS “Chari-Tee” Putt Putt Golf Tournament: A Celebration of Charity, Community, and Creativity

PORT OF HUENEME — The rain didn’t detract from the fun of the Annual Channel Islands Gulls “Chari-Tee” Putt Putt Golf Tournament was held in the scenic Silver Strand neighborhood for its fifteenth year in a row. This one-of-a-kind event was supported by contributions from the Port of Hueneme and City of Port Hueneme’s Community Benefit Fund (CBF) to support the local Ventura County nonprofit CAREGIVERS: Volunteers Assisting the Elderly. The Strand Bar & Grill, Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant, The Beachcomber Tavern, La Jenelle Cafe and The Strandwich worked together in helping bring the day’s festivities to reality with Stark Realty hosting Oxnard Local Artists who dedicated a portion of their proceeds to help support volunteer caregiving.

“The work of CAREGIVERS in providing support for Ventura County’s senior population is of critical importance,” said Celina Zacarias, President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Commissioners. “The Port is honored to be able to sponsor this event and continue in our mission to enrich our community!”

People’s Self-Help Housing Commemorates Retirement of Sheryl Flores, Director of Home Ownership

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) recently commemorated the retirement of their Director of Home Ownership. After more than 28 years of service to affordable housing, California native and longtime San Luis Obispo resident, Sheryl Flores is stepping down.

“Sheryl has been a tremendous asset to the growth and success of our organization,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “It would be impossible to list all of her contributions, but we simply would not be who we are today without her leadership, expertise, and passion for the work.”

Born and raised in Sunol, CA in the rural east bay area of San Francisco, Sheryl settled on the Central Coast after studying at Cal Poly.?Coming to the organization in 1996 from the world of agricultural and business lending, she brought with her a set of financial and development skills which would prove invaluable to PSHH over the years.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

Ventura County Fire Department Observes 19th Annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service

On November 20th, first responders, families, community members, and local community leaders came together for the 19th Annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service at the Ventura County Government Center.

This moving ceremony pays tribute to the brave firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the residents of Ventura County. The ceremony included a uniform procession, a moment of silence, and bagpipes were played by the Ventura City Pipes and Drums. The ceremonial firefighters bell rang as names of the fallen were read in memory of their sacrifice and service.

We are forever grateful for their dedication and commitment to keeping our community safe.

Bilingual report — Ventura secures an additional $60 million in federal funding for Ventura Water Projects

VENTURA — The City of Ventura has been awarded an additional $60.4 million in federal grant funding under the Department of the Interior’s Large-Scale Water Recycling Program. This new award brings total federal investments in Ventura Water’s projects to $108…

Edie DeVine joins Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation board

SANTA BARBARA — The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation (PASF), a nonprofit supporting classical music education in Santa Barbara County, has welcomed communications expert Edie DeVine to the organization’s board.

An Oxnard resident and supporter of the arts, DeVine has worked in the communications industry for over two decades. She currently serves as executive vice president leading global medical and health technology work across GCI Health, one of the most highly recognized global integrated healthcare communications agencies in the world.

County of San Luis Obispo Assessor’s Office Annual Report

SAN LUIS OBISPO — It is my pleasure to present the 2024 Annual Report for the Assessor’s Office. This report provides the latest data regarding the value of property in San Luis Obispo County. It is also an opportunity to express my appreciation to the great staff of the Assessor’s Office and the people we are privileged to serve.

Each year the Assessor is required to prepare an Assessment Roll of the value of all property subject to property taxation. The Roll for this year indicates moderate growth in the value of real property. This resulted in a 5.03% increase in value for 2023-24.

Camarillo’s TruNorth Jets Founder Sarah Oberman receives Business Aviation Top 40 Under 40 award

CAMARILLO — Sarah Oberman, the founder of private jet charter company TruNorth Jets, has been recognized as one of the top 40 young aviation business professionals in the country by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).

Oberman just received the 2024 NBAA Business Aviation Top 40 Under 40 award, which recognizes emerging leaders who are actively helping shape the future of business aviation. She joins an esteemed group of young professionals driving real change in the aviation industry and setting the standard through impactful contributions.

The NBAA Young Professionals (YoPro) Council receives hundreds of nominations for the award each year. In 2024, the organization received a record number of nominations across nine career categories. The council carefully reviews each submission and selects candidates based on their community involvement, professional achievements, innovative mindset, and commitment to the business aviation community.

Bilingual report — Indigenous Agricultural Workers in Ventura County Can Get Help to Qualify for Kaiser Permanente’s New Coverage

VENTURA — Indigenous men, women, and children in Ventura County will have greater access to health care in 2025 thanks to Kaiser Permanente’s health coverage. The new Community Health Care Program (CHCP) from Kaiser Permanente covers low-income individuals, including those who earn slightly more than the threshold for Medi-Cal or who lack legal documentation to reside in the U.S.

To reach those in need of health coverage, Kaiser Permanente has awarded a $200,000 one-year grant to the Mixteco Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) to support health navigators who provide assistance in the language of the Mixteco Indigenous community.

Health navigators are trained and fluent in indigenous languages such as Mixteco and Zapoteco, as well as Spanish and English, allowing them to overcome language barriers and ultimately help individuals obtain the necessary health care.

Bilingual commentary — Thoughts on the Presidential Election

Like nearly half of the country, I’ve been in a funk over the past couple of weeks. As I process the astoundingly unexpected sweep of the Republican victory in this election, my mind fills with questions. 

Some of those questions are being answered as the statisticians dissect the body of electoral evidence and conduct a postmortem on the results of the election. 

The voters have spoken. They lurched rightward in spite of the signs indicating that women were galvanized in their support of reproductive rights, that Latinos were tired of the insults directed at them and their families, and that Blacks were not going to abandon the Democratic Party in its hour of need.

But enough women, Latinos, and Blacks did indeed abandon Kamala Harris to trigger the avalanche of support for Donald Trump that even he did not seem to expect—much like when he won the election in 2016. To add insult to the Democrats’ injuries, Republicans took control not only of the White House, but also of the House and Senate. 

Bilingual report — Local Assistance Center to close (on Nov. 23) after serving close to 300 households impacted by the Mountain Fire

VENTURA — After serving for 10 days as a one-stop center for fire recovery information and assistance, the Local Assistance Center that was run to assist residents impacted by the Mountain Fire will close its doors on Saturday, November 23, at 7:00 p.m. Residents still seeking services are encouraged to visit the Center by Saturday or they may obtain services after Saturday by visiting existing local County and City of Camarillo government offices.

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan Launches $1.5 Million Scholarship Program to Strengthen Diversity in Behavioral Health Workforce

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (on Nov. 18) announced the launch of a groundbreaking scholarship program that aims to develop a more diverse behavioral health workforce to ensure Ventura County residents have access to culturally responsive care. The $1.5 million initiative is funded through the state Department of Health Care Services’ Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program (SBHIP), which aims to expand access to behavioral health services for children and adolescents enrolled in Medi-Cal.