Category: Cultural

Central Coast United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Raising Justice is Back on Sept. 17th! — Join Us for Our 25th Anniversary Celebration

by Community Contributor • July 9, 2026 • Comments Off

For the past 20 years now, you’ve created a Raising Justice that continues to bring together hundreds of our movement friends for a fun early evening of food, drinks, music, and community rooted in our shared organizing for a more just region. It’s free to attend with an invite to donate any amount that feels right to you.

Today, we invite you to join our growing circle of Early Event Sponsors. Sponsors not only underwrite the event, but also allow our work throughout the year to stay community supported and here for the long haul — it’s one of the ways you can ensure our event’s success.

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County — Passion to Progress, and Fellows on the Move!

by Community Contributor • July 9, 2026 • Comments Off

PASSION TO PROGRESS

Call for Fellows 2026 – 2027

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — Summer Reading, Constitution Day, Civic Tours, and More

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2026 • Comments Off

Get fun summer reading ideas, activities, and more from the VCOE Library’s Summer Reading Extravaganza. Click here to check out local libraries’ summer reading programs and get online access to free full-length young adult novels. Also, find out how summer readers can earn free ride tickets for the Ventura County Fair.

UCSB — The Current — ‘New rainfall dataset enhances global monitoring of extreme weather’ and more news

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2026 • Comments Off

A new, UCSB-developed version of a world-leading rainfall data product guides drought early warning, disaster relief, index insurance applications and more.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura invites public review of Draft Prohousing Designation Application

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is inviting community members to review and comment on its draft application for the State of California’s Prohousing Designation Program. The public comment period will be open from July 8 through August 8, 2026, providing residents and stakeholders an opportunity to review the application and share feedback before it is considered by the City Council and submitted to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).

Tickets on sale now for Ventura Music Festival Opening Night Gala on July 20

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2026 • Comments Off

Join us for an evening at the speakeasy as we enjoy champagne cocktails, absinthe-inspired libations, exceptional bites, and 1930s French swing jazz by the renowned San Lyon ensemble. Proceeds to benefit VMF’s music education and community programs.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — FREE – AI Webinar Series (July 14, 21, 23, 28; Aug. 4, 11, 13, 18): Back by Popular Demand!

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2026 • Comments Off

Back by popular demand, this FREE webinar series is designed to help small business owners use AI to save time, improve marketing and grow revenue.

Attend one session or all
All sessions are practical and beginner-friendly

United Way of Ventura County announces Annual Spirit Award recipients

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — United Way of Ventura County is pleased to announce the 21st Annual Spirit Award Recipients. These awards honor our Founding members. Every year since 2005, individuals and organizations who embody the qualities of Milton M. Teague, Douglas Shively, and Roy Pinkerton are selected for this prestigious honor. This year we will also award our President’s Award, and our Women United Award. The awards and awardees are listed below:

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — Bilingual stop-motion animation workshop for children (July 6-24)

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2026 • Comments Off

Bilingual stop-motion animation workshop for children. *** Taller bilingüe de animación cuadro por cuadro para niños.

Bilingual commentary — Are Latinos “White”?

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2026 • Comments Off

I had a moment of angst three years ago as I filled out the 2020 U.S. Census form. I froze in my tracks, just as I had with employment forms in the past, when I saw a question asking me to denote my race. I am thoroughly aware that much of the U.S. population, especially in the more conservative states, would not consider me “white.”

Their assessment is based solely on my appearance. I’m not particularly dark, but neither am I of “fair skin.”

In light of recent developments in our country, I am now less willing to declare myself as of the “white” race on any form inquiring about my ancestral background. However, in the following Census question inquiring about my ethnicity (as opposed to “race”), selecting “Hispanic or Latino” was an obvious choice.

Bilingual guest commentary by Kaiser Permanente — From fireworks to heat waves: Health expert outlines July 4 safety MustKnows

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2026 • Comments Off

As Fourth of July celebrations approach across Southern California, families are preparing for a day filled with barbecues, pool parties and fireworks—traditions many look forward to all year.

But health experts are reminding the public that the holiday also brings a spike in preventable injuries.

“People love this holiday because it brings everyone together,” said Dr. Kimberly Petrick, a family medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente Southern California. “Still, a little caution goes a long way in keeping the day festive instead of stressful.”

House Farm Workers! — Reserve your seat for Field to Fork Today!

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2026 • Comments Off

“From Field to Fork” brings together farmers who produce Ventura County’s agricultural bounty, chefs who celebrate that bounty on their menus, and the farm workers whose labor makes it all possible.

Enjoy a multi-course gourmet dinner while helping promote affordable, safe, and stable housing for Ventura County farm workers and their families.

Downtown Oxnard — Outdoor festivals, music, and art experiences…

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2026 • Comments Off

View this email in your browser FOOD SHOPS ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS

Sold-Out 2026 Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic Showcased leadership, sport and philanthropy in support of People Helping People

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY — More than 300 guests gathered at the Santa Ynez Valley Polo Club on Saturday, June 27, for a sold-out 2026 Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic benefiting People Helping People (PHP), demonstrating how visionary leadership and philanthropy continue to strengthen the Santa Ynez Valley.

Presented by Happy Canyon Vineyard, the Polo Classic has become one of the region’s premier charitable sporting events, where exceptional polo, hospitality, and philanthropy converge to support local families.

Guest contribution — Trump administration scoffs at Federal and California law and public process to hand public lands to big oil

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Environmental organizations across California are condemning Trump’s Bureau of Land Management’s approval of oil and gas leasing and development plans for both the Bakersfield and Central Coast field office regions—a decision that critics argue was a rushed, legally deficient move that ignores California law, bypasses the public, and offers some of the state’s most beloved public lands over to the fossil fuel industry.

The BLM issued the approvals without allowing the standard 60-day Governor’s Consistency Review period required before a federal land use decision affecting California can be finalized, and without responding to formal administrative protests filed by community organizations. That review exists precisely to ensure federal actions do not conflict with state law and policy—and this decision is in direct, flagrant conflict with both.

Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA) presents Season 63

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — PCPA is proud to announce Season 63, featuring a dynamic mix of Shakespeare, family favorites, contemporary drama, and large-scale musicals, including La Comedia of Errors, The Wizard of Oz, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 72 Miles to Go, Les Misérables, Mean Girls, and Murder on the Orient Express.

ATLAS Ventura Housing announces new brand image and awards $35,500 in scholarships to 16 students

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On June 17, ATLAS welcomed more than 150 guests to the Museum of Ventura County for its annual Scholarship Celebration, recognizing students pursuing higher education, career training, and professional development opportunities. ATLAS also revealed a new brand direction that better aligns with its mission as the nonprofit dedicated to empowering and uplifting participants of Ventura Housing programs, promoting stability and self-sufficiency. The organization received 29 scholarship applications from residents and program participants. Following a competitive review process, 16 students were selected to receive a combined $35,500 in scholarship funding to support their educational and career goals.

“Through ATLAS, we are helping families move beyond housing stability and into long-term success through education,” said Jeffrey Lambert, CEO of Ventura Housing. “When a student earns a degree, the impact reaches far beyond one person. It changes the trajectory of an entire family.”

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara July 2026 Newsletter — Keep your Pets Safe This Fourth of July, more news

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

Ventura County Leadership Academy to Unveil Bold New Identity and Programming at August 20th Celebration

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — On Thursday, August 20th, Ventura County Leadership Academy will mark its next chapter with The Big Reveal Party! This afternoon celebration will include the introduction of a bold new identity, new name, and announcement of expanded programming. The Big Reveal Party will bring together community leaders, changemakers, alumni, partners and friends for an afternoon of connection, celebration and a few surprises. Tickets and registration are available at www.vcleadership.org/bigrevealparty

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) — The Reviews Are In!

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2026 • Comments Off

First of all I’d like to send a HUGE thank you to the 1,000 + artists, friends, family, and art lovers that came to the opening of our summer exhibitions earlier this month. The team and I are so happy that visitors have been enjoying the exhibits and are seeing what the amazing artists of Santa Barbara have to offer.

Bilingual report — Eight cadets graduate from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2026 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Eight cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy June 26 during a ceremony held at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.?

“This is some of the most important work we do at Hancock, training public servants,” said AHC Associate Superintendent/Vice President of Academic Affairs Robert Curry, Ph.D.

All eight graduates of CORE Academy Class #21 completed a comprehensive California Standards and Training for Corrections course consisting of 260 hours of instruction.

United Way of Ventura County — Kids need tools to be successful!

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2026 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Office of Education has identified 9,500 homeless youth in our communities. United we can provide our 3rd – 5th graders with the tools needed to be successful in school!

Allan Hancock College and Santa Barbara County Workforce Development Board to open GED testing Center in Santa Maria

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Residents?seeking?to earn their high school equivalency credential now have a local?option?thanks to a partnership between Allan Hancock College and the Santa Barbara County Workforce Development Board.?

The new GED Testing Center,?located?at the Workforce Resource Center at 1410 S. Broadway in Santa Maria, provides Northern Santa Barbara County residents with a convenient location to complete GED testing closer to home.?

The testing center was?established?through a collaborative effort between Allan Hancock College and the Workforce Development Board to help remove barriers to educational attainment and workforce advancement. Prior to the opening of the Santa Maria location, many residents?were required?to travel to testing centers in Santa Barbara or Paso Robles to complete their exams.

Bilingual commentary — Why Latinos Must Embrace AI

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

As a boomer who started working toward the end of the Industrial Revolution and then well into the digital age, I find myself fumbling my way into the AI Era that is suddenly at our doorstep. Now it occurs to me that although it behooves young people to get on board with AI for the sake of their futures, Latinos, specifically, should seriously consider the benefits that are possible for them.

For important reasons, Latinos stand to benefit enormously by upgrading their skills.

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing June 2026 eNewsletter

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

In 1970, when People’s Self-Help Housing was founded, our work began with a simple but powerful idea: as our name indicates, help people build their own homes. Through this mutual self-help model, we have worked alongside 1,200 amazing families who built their own homes. But as the needs of our communities evolved, so did we. In the mid-80s we moved into developing multifamily housing for rent and since then have constructed 63 vibrant neighborhoods throughout the Central Coast.

Bilingual report — SEE International celebrates $100,000 endowment gift from Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2026 • Comments Off

GOLETA — Local nonprofit SEE International celebrated on June 23 a $100,000 endowed gift from the Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club during a community event held at the organization’s SEE Vision Care clinic in Goleta.

The gift will support SEE Vision Care (SVC), SEE International’s local program providing free eye care services to uninsured and underinsured individuals throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. Through five clinic locations, a mobile vision clinic, and community outreach events, SVC provides vision screenings, comprehensive eye exams, prescription glasses, and sight-restoring surgeries at no cost to qualifying patients.

City Impact Inc. in Ventura County issues call for nominations for Thrive Together Awards

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — City Impact, Inc., a Ventura County–based nonprofit dedicated to serving at-promise youth and families since 1995, is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the Thrive Together Awards 2026 — the organization’s signature annual celebration of entrepreneurship, innovation and community impact, targeting small businesses and start-up organizations in Ventura County.

The Thrive Together awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 5:00–9:00 PM at the Museum of Ventura County in Ventura, California — fittingly timed during National Hispanic Heritage Month. Small business nominations are open now through Tuesday, July 14, 2026.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura invites public to celebrate (on June 27) completion of landmark Moon Ditch Mural

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura invites the public to celebrate the completion of the Moon Ditch Mural, a landmark public art project that has transformed a flood control channel into one of the largest murals in the United States. Spanning approximately 3,400 linear feet (about two-thirds of a mile), the project was created through a partnership of local artists, volunteers, community organizations, and County agencies, demonstrating how participation in the arts can foster connection, support mental well-being, and inspire environmental stewardship.

Announcing the People Helping People Youth Coalition

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY — People Helping People (PHP) is giving youth a seat at the table to help lead the fight against substance misuse in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Over the years PHP has led a number of organizations to promote substance use reduction and prevention, but previously the student and adult programs were separate.

The new People Helping People Youth Coalition (PHPYC) will be led by local youth working directly with key community partners – educators, parents, businesses, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and local organizations.

“Youth voice isn’t just valuable, it’s essential. They understand what’s happening in their schools and among their peers far better than any adult can. Our role is to listen first, then build programs that actually reflect what they’re telling us”, said Selene Sandoval, PHP Director of Youth Programs.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura reports $2.4 billion in agricultural value in 2025 Crop and Livestock Report

by Community Contributor • June 24, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura’s Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures presented the 2025 Crop and Livestock Report to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors during their regular meeting on Tuesday, June 23. The annual publication, which provides a snapshot of the county’s farming industry, reported the gross value of agriculture at $2,409,748,000, a 4% increase from 2024.

In addition to production statistics, the 2025 Crop and Livestock Report examines the economic realities facing Ventura County’s agricultural community. Through its theme, “Making Cents of Agricultural Production,” the report explores rising costs across six key production categories – labor, land, inputs, plant care, services, and compliance – and highlights the resilience and innovation that continue to drive Ventura County agriculture.

Museum of Ventura County — Summer programs, new exhibits & Taste of History 2026

by Community Contributor • June 23, 2026 • Comments Off

Step into the glamour of the 1920s for an unforgettable evening of fine dining, vintage-inspired cocktails, entertainment, dancing, and philanthropy as we celebrate Ventura County’s remarkable role in the early days of filmmaking.

TASTE OF HISTORY 2026

Thursday, September 10

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — A Year of Active Hope: FREE community events all summer long

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2026 • Comments Off

What does active hope look like? It looks like learning new skills, meeting inspiring people, celebrating community, coming together around shared solutions, and discovering practical ways to create change.

This summer, the Community Environmental Council (CEC) invites you to join us for A Year of Active Hope — a series of free events offering a welcoming space for people to unite, find courage, and take meaningful steps for our planet.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. breaks ground on Camino de Salud in the Ojai Valley

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) on June 5 celebrated the groundbreaking of Camino De Salud, a 49-unit supportive affordable housing development in the unincorporated Ojai Valley community of Mira Monte. Camino De Salud will reserve half of its units for residents who are experiencing homelessness and have been high health users with the remaining units serving residents earning 50 percent or less of the area median income.

“It’s truly a pleasure to be here in the beautiful Ojai Valley to celebrate the groundbreaking of Camino de Salud. A project whose very name reflects what the community stands for: health, opportunity and a pathway forward,” said Victoria Brady, Chief Executive Officer. “We’re building opportunity, we’re building a stronger, more connected community.”

Congressman Salud Carbajal honored by Central Coast healthcare leaders

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24) was honored on June 1 by the CenCal Health Board of Directors with an official resolution recognizing his leadership and advocacy on behalf of Medi-Cal beneficiaries, providers, and communities across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

The resolution was presented by Santa Barbara County Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann, alongside Marina Owen, Chief Executive Officer of CenCal Health, and CenCal Health Board Chair Sue Andersen, President & CEO of Dignity Health on the Central Coast.

Bilingual commentary — Dark Skies: Portals to the Cosmos

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

There are several hundred thousand amateur astronomers in the U.S. I was one of them during my teenage years (my daughter, a mother of three boys, has made it a point to tell me that I was not a “normal” teenager). I had one big disadvantage: I lived in Los Angeles during those years and had never seen the Milky Way due to the massive amount of illumination from one of the largest cities in the world just north of the suburb where I lived.

One summer, my father took all of us to the mountains north of Los Angeles for a few days. I took my telescope with me.

Bilingual report — Community invited to the 35th annual Juneteenth Freedom Day celebration on June 20

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

“For 35 years, the Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration has brought together our Ventura County community to honor history, celebrate culture, and embrace the values of freedom and unity,” said Bruce Stewart, President of the Ventura County Juneteenth Celebration. “We are proud to continue this tradition and remain committed to ensuring that future generations understand the importance of Juneteenth and the contributions of African Americans to our nation and our community.”

Bilingual report — Teatro de las América — Cerca de ti (Close to you), obra en español/play in Spanish continuing through June 28

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

In 2080, there will be androids to satisfy your emotional needs. Who wouldn’t want to get the “love vaccine”? An author laments not having been a prophet in her own land and orders her little bonsai tree to report an interruption in her streaming of the acceptance of a major literary award. For a writer, there’s always the possibility of “killing off” a character, but what do you do when the protagonist demands that you write a few extra pages so she can deeply feel the pain and seek healing once the story ends?

Ventura Music Festival — Volunteers Needed – Sunday June 21

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

With free live music and activations down Main Street, we expect a high volume of foot traffic for MMV, and we need your help!

Join us as a volunteer for Make Music Ventura and experience the day from a backstage perspective, while helping our community make the most of this wonderful, free event. Shifts are available all day, between the hours of 8am to 8pm, and we have numerous opportunities in stage support, wayfinding, booth staffing, and more! Thank you for joining us.

Santa Paula Art Museum — Inbox Art Exhibit: ‘Cornelis Botke: Painter of the Western Scene’

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

On view now through July 12, 2026

Santa Paula artist Cornelis Botke (1887-1954) is best known as a master etcher and as a supporting figure in the career of his wife, artist Jessie Arms Botke (1883-1971). His etchings earned international acclaim and entered the collections of the California State Library, the Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian Institution. Yet from childhood, Cornelis’ true ambition was to be a painter.

Botke was born in Leeuwarden, Holland, in 1887. Orphaned at a young age, he was raised and educated in a Mennonite orphanage in Haarlem. Although he longed to pursue painting, his guardians worried about his livelihood and enrolled him instead at the Haarlem School of Applied Art, where students trained for professional trades such as architectural drawing, engraving, and metalwork.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approves balanced budget for fiscal year 2026-2027

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

“The adoption of this budget reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars while continuing to invest in the services Ventura County residents rely on every day,” stated Chair of the Board Jeff Gorell. “This balanced budget maintains our strong fiscal foundation, supports public safety, infrastructure, health and human services, and positions our county to meet both current needs and future challenges. At a time when changes in state and federal funding are creating new challenges for counties across California, Ventura County remains focused on fiscal discipline, strategic planning, and delivering high-quality services to our residents.”

Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees place local funding measure on November 2026 ballot

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees voted unanimously June 16 to place a local facilities funding measure on the November 3, 2026, ballot, allowing voters throughout the Allan Hancock Joint Community College District to consider whether to authorize funding for repairs, upgrades and modernization projects at the college’s facilities.

If approved by voters, the measure would authorize up to $290 million in locally controlled general obligation bonds to improve and modernize projects at Allan Hancock College locations throughout the district.

Oxnard City Council places Measure O renewal on Nov. 3, 2026 ballot for voters to decide whether to maintain locally-controlled funding source

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Oxnard City Council voted on June 16, 2026, to place the “City of Oxnard Public Safety, Financial Stability Measure (No Tax Rate Increase)” on the November 3, 2026 ballot, providing Oxnard voters the opportunity to choose whether to continue the City’s existing Measure O sales tax beyond its current expiration date in March 2029.

Measure O is a locally-controlled ½ cent sales tax that was approved by 65% of Oxnard voters in 2008. It has provided funding for a range of City services, including police and fire protection, 911 emergency response, street and alley maintenance, youth and senior programs, homelessness response, and other community programs. Measure O is currently scheduled to expire in March 2029 unless renewed by voters.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board Of Supervisors approves construction of new playground at Steckel Park

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors, during their regular meeting on Tuesday, June 9, approved construction of a new playground at Steckel Park, marking a major investment in recreation, accessibility, and family-friendly amenities at one of the County’s most popular parks.

SCRV Pride Week Celebrates Inclusion, Community Leadership, and LGBTQ+ Pride in the Santa Clara River Valley

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA CLARA RIVER VALLEY — The Santa Clara River Valley (SCRV) Pride Committee is proud to announce SCRV Pride Week 2026, a weeklong celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, visibility, inclusion, and community. The week will bring together residents, families, allies, businesses, public agencies, and community-based organizations from throughout the region for a series of events that celebrate diversity, honor local leaders, and strengthen community connections.

SCRV Pride Week reflects the Santa Clara River Valley’s commitment to creating a community where all people are welcomed, respected, and empowered to thrive. This year’s celebration will feature the SCRV Pride Mixer, a City of Santa Paula Pride Proclamation, and the annual SCRV Pride Brunch, highlighting the power of community, advocacy, and belonging.

Bilingual report — Community leaders named as 2026 Hancock Honors Recipients

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Foundation announced the recipients of the 2026 Hancock Honors, presented by CoastHills Credit Union. The annual celebration, set for Sept. 12, recognizes individuals and organizations whose leadership, philanthropy and service have made a lasting impact on the college and the communities it serves.?

This year’s honorees are educator and Allan Hancock College?alumna?Dr. Nicolasa “Niki” Sandoval, pioneering Santa Barbara County winemaker and philanthropist Fred Brander and the Melsheimer Family, longtime supporters of education and workforce development on the Central Coast.

Meadowlark Service League distributes $265,000 to local charities

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Representatives from over 40 charities across Ventura County gathered to celebrate community along with the hard-working ladies of the Meadowlark Service League for a special “Breakfast of Champions” on Thursday, June 4th at the Las Posas Country Club.

The charities that are supported by the Meadowlark Service League impact the elderly, youth/children, the arts, the homeless, the disabled, veterans, hospice, health, feeding the needy, community services, and education. In addition, $10,000 in scholarships were given to new and continuing college students.

Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) Power of Purpose June 2026 newsletter

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2026 • Comments Off

Last month, I wrote about my experience at the Council of Foundations conference and the idea of connection being its own philanthropic cause, worthy of support, and how the work in front of us is not simply to gather with those who already affirm us. The deeper work is to break bread across difference and discover that we still belong to one another.

My email inbox was flooded with replies and messages expressing a shared concern for how polarizing and divided these times are. Your replies have stayed with me, and they fill me with hope. I really want to thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with me, and please know how grateful I am for each and every one of you.

Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan Public Review Draft available. Comments due by June 22

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study & Action Plan, Public Review Draft, is now available. Provide comments by June 22, 2026

El Estudio y Plan de Acción sobre Vivienda para Trabajadores Agrícolas del Condado de Ventura, Revisión Pública Borrador, está disponible. Proporcionar comentarios antes del 22 de junio de 2026.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — Inspiring Stories from the Ventura County Class of 2026

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

At the end of each school year, the Ventura County Office of Education takes the opportunity to shine a spotlight on some of the remarkable students graduating from local high schools. Every year, we’re amazed by the stories we receive of students who have overcome great odds and achieved incredible things on the road to their high school diploma.

This year is no different, and we’re excited to profile just a few students who demonstrate the resilience, dedication and drive of the Ventura County Class of 2026. Among our featured graduates are a young man who journeyed alone from Mexico in search of a better life and a young woman whose family fled Ukraine to find safety and opportunity in Ventura County.

805 UndocuFund — One Year Later: Remembering the June 10 Raids and the Road to Glass House Farms

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Dear Friends & Supporters,

June marks one year since Border Patrol carried out a series of immigration enforcement operations across Ventura County, reaching the Central Coast for the first time since the early 1990s.

Between June 10 and June 14, 2025, at least 95 community members were taken from their workplaces, homes, and families. Fear spread quickly throughout the region as workers stayed home, parents worried about their children, and entire communities braced for what might come next.

What many did not know at the time was that these raids were a warning of something far more devastating.

Together, we remember…

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency welcomes new assistant director

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Tyburski is an accomplished public works executive, infrastructure leader, and licensed California civil engineer with nearly 30 years of experience managing complex public infrastructure programs, multimillion-dollar capital improvement projects, and large-scale governmental operations. His career spans both the public and private sectors, giving him a well-rounded perspective on infrastructure delivery, operational strategy, and organizational leadership. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from California State University, Fresno and a Master of Public Administration from Arkansas State University.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loans Now Available!

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

In partnership with the City of Camarillo, the Economic Development Collaborative has launched the City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loan Fund. This low-interest program is specifically designed to prioritize the vibrant business community in the City of Camarillo. Start-ups can get the necessary capital to launch their ventures and established businesses can secure funds to fuel their growth. With abundant opportunities for collaboration, a diverse customer base and an environment of innovation, Camarillo is a perfect place to start or grow your business.

Lumina Alliance’s Light the Way Campaign in San Luis Obispo reaches $1.9 million milestone to sustain critical survivor services

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Launched in response to growing uncertainty surrounding federal and state funding, the campaign was designed to help sustain life-changing programs that provide safety, healing, and prevention throughout San Luis Obispo County. With nearly 50% of Lumina Alliance’s budget historically supported by government funding, the campaign focuses on building long-term community investment to ensure survivors continue to have access to 24/7 crisis support, emergency shelter, transitional housing, therapy, advocacy, and prevention education.

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard celebrates groundbreaking of Endless Waves Skatepark, future home to an Olympic-quality skatepark

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The City of Oxnard celebrated the groundbreaking of the Endless Waves Skatepark at Del Sol Park, marking a major milestone in the City Council’s continued investment in recreational opportunities and infrastructure improvements for the community. Once completed, the nearly 40,000 square-foot, Olympic-quality skatepark will be the largest skatepark in Ventura County.

“We are thrilled to break ground on the incredible new skatepark—a bold project that showcases our commitment to creating vibrant spaces where our youth, families, and entire community can come together to enjoy social and health benefits,” said Mayor Luis A. Mc Arthur. “The Endless Waves Skatepark will become a premier amenity for our community members throughout Ventura County and a proud symbol for the neighborhoods of La Colonia, Rose Park, and the City of Oxnard for generations to come.”

Tickets on sale for Community Environmental Council (CEC)’s 2026 Green Gala on Sept. 19, more news

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Bilingual report — Couple celebrates 20 years of learning together through Allan Hancock College’s Community Education Art Classes

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — For the past 20 years, Nick and Deborah Carpenter have shared a tradition that has become an important part of their lives: taking Community Education art classes together at Allan Hancock College.

Over two decades, the couple has explored a variety of creative pursuits through the college’s tuition-free art offerings, developing new skills while building lasting memories. Among their most meaningful projects were creating the rings they later exchanged on their wedding day.

Community Rallies around survivors at Voices of Hope Gala, Fueling Expansion of Ventura County Family Justice Centers

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation (Foundation) raised over $234,000 at its annual Voices of Hope Gala on Wednesday, May 27, at Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada Farms in Moorpark. The evening drew 240 community leaders, elected officials, and supporters who gathered to raise critical funds for the Foundation’s free programs serving individuals and families affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse, human trafficking, and other violent crimes.

Proceeds from the gala will support Camp HOPE, Voices of Ventura County, and the Pathways to Hope program, as well as the Foundation’s continued expansion. Two new Family Justice Centers are on track to open in 2027: the Carmen Ramirez Family Justice Center in Oxnard and the East County Family Justice Center, both of which will extend critical, trauma-informed services to communities across the county.

Downtown Oxnard announces June events

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

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Friendship Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — The Friendly Finch: June 2026

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

“You like me, you really like me!”
-Sally Field, 1985
-and Friendship Center, 2026

I know Friendship Center is beloved by so many in our community; it would be impossible for us to have existed for 50 years otherwise. But May was one of those months where we really felt the love.

We were honored to receive our first-ever grant from the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara, supporting the operation of our dementia-friendly transportation service. If you’re unfamiliar with the incredible research, diligence, and care that the Women’s Fund invests in every grant decision, let me assure you, this recognition is no small thing. Their team spent months getting to know Friendship Center, understanding our work, evaluating our impact, and determining whether we could deliver on the promises we make to our community.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency recognizes 2026 Employees of The Year

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) is proud to announce the recognition of its 2026 Employees of the Year. These exceptional individuals have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, dedication, and innovation in their roles, contributing to the Agency’s ongoing success. The awards were presented on Tuesday, May 19th, during the Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting.

Ivan Gonzales, honored with the Operations & Maintenance Employee of the Year award, has been with VCPWA for 19 years, playing a key role in the Roads and Transportation Department. His major duties include coordinating emergency response efforts during storms, floods, fires, and landslides; supervising road maintenance crews and field operations; managing budgets and projects; overseeing personnel, training, and development; and responding to resident and roadway concerns to help keep the community safe.

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