Ventura County Neighbors Support Coalition
Category: Family
People Helping People (PHP) — Do you know a farmworker looking for housing?
Do you know a farmworker looking for housing?
Take a look at our sites available for immediate move-ins!
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¿Conoce a algún trabajador agrícola que esté buscando vivienda?
¡Dale un vistazo a nuestras propiedades disponibles para mudanza inmediata!
CLU School of Management — (On April 8) you can make a difference!
THOUSAND OAKS — Hope Gonzalez is the kind of student every institution strives to support – and donors like you make it possible. She launched her first business while still in high school and came to Cal Lutheran’s School of Management with the support of a generous scholarship. What followed is exactly what your support enables.
Hope did not limit her education to the classroom. She immersed herself in speaking events, took on leadership roles in student organizations, competed in high-stakes competitions, represented major brands as a campus ambassador, and participated in transformative field experiences. She seized every opportunity and turned them into momentum.
Bilingual report — You’ve Got Mail! Important Mail on the Way to Voters for the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election
VENTURA COUNTY — Even though the June 2nd Gubernatorial Primary election is two months away, active registered voters in Ventura County can expect to begin receiving important election-related mail from the County Elections office in the next few weeks.
It starts with the 60-day voter information postcard, which will arrive in early April, approximately 60 days before Election Day. The postcard provides information about receiving and returning your vote by mail ballot, and the vote center daily schedule for those who prefer to vote in person.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Arte Del Pueblo 2026 Application is open!
The time you all have been waiting for has arrived!
The Arte Del Pueblo Application is now OPEN. Click the link HERE to access it.
Friendly reminder.
– Please read the application in its entirety before submitting.
– Make sure all your information is correct. What ends up being submitted is what we will end up printing on your artwork’s label.
– Completing this application DOES NOT guarantee you a spot in the exhibition. You MUST drop off your artwork on a drop off date.
Explore Lompoc — Your budget-friendly guide to Lompoc on California’s Central Coast
LOMPOC — Colorful murals, crave-worthy wines, and fresh-air adventures—all without breaking the bank.
Set between rolling hills and the Pacific, Lompoc is your launchpad for adventure. Explore the charming downtown, sip local wines, hike scenic trails, or catch a rocket lighting up the sky from nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base.
Things to Do That Won’t Break the Bank
Lompoc offers plenty of memorable experiences that don’t require a big budget. From outdoor adventures to local culture, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.
Historic and Cultural Experiences: La Purísima Mission
La Purísima Mission State Historic Park is one of California’s most fully restored Spanish missions, set amid rolling hills and oak-studded landscapes.
People Helping People — First Women’s Legacy of Giving Luncheon has Impactful Beginning
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY — A sea of women in yellow gathered to the brighten the lives of clients of People Helping People at the inaugural luncheon for the Women’s Legacy of Giving in the Santa Ynez Valley. Guests were encouraged to wear yellow to symbolize warmth, hope, and shared light.
The leadership of philanthropist Linda Johansen helped galvanize 72 women to join PHP’s newly formed Women’s giving circle. “When women come together, we are powerful and we can do amazing things,” Johansen told guests.
“A heartfelt and sincere thank you to Linda Johansen for her unwavering dedication to the Santa Ynez Valley and People Helping People “said Erica Jane Flores, CEO of PHP. “Women’s Legacy of Giving is a reflection of her vision, leadership, and deep care for this community – we are truly grateful.”
County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Introducing the 2026 “Great Navigators” of District 2
You are invited to attend the 2nd Annual Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards on May 7, from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Amgen campus in Thousand Oaks.
Join us as we celebrate the “Great Navigators” of our community—these exceptional honorees representing Education, Public Safety, Community Leadership, Prosperity, and Environmentalism. Each awardee reflects the very best of Ventura County—an educator shaping future leaders, a first responder dedicated to keeping our communities safe, a community leader making an impact on the lives of many, an innovator strengthening our local economy, and a community garden collective advancing sustainability, local food access, and environmental stewardship.
Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara April 2026 Newsletter
My Way Home in Oxnard announces April, May workshops
Join us for a free series of workshops designed to help you build knowledge and practical skills. This month’s topics include our HUD-approved Homebuyer Workshop, Estate Planning, and a Beginner’s Guide to Couponing. Whether you’re preparing to buy a home, planning for the future, or looking for ways to save on everyday expenses, these sessions offer practical tools you can use right away.
Museum of Ventura County — April at the Museum and Remembering Ivor Davis
We are saddened to share the news that Ivor Davis, the legendary journalist and host of the Up Close and Personal program at the Museum of Ventura County, passed away on March 29, 2026. We are deeply grateful for the time he spent at the Museum, sharing his stories and interviewing notable guests.
Since 2017, Ivor shared his life in journalism through more than 20 appearances at MVC, becoming a familiar and welcoming presence. Both longtime followers and newcomers were always eager to hear his stories about true crime, music, and history.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination
VENTURA — As part of the Ventura County Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program, the Environmental Health Division (Division) is providing the following precautionary information to the public. Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County.
In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.
There is a potential for storm water runoff to carry disease causing bacteria to the beaches and into the ocean water.
Oxnard launches Arts, Culture & Creativity Month on April 1 featuring new cultural district
OXNARD — The Oxnard arts community will officially launch Arts, Culture & Creativity Month this April with a vibrant public celebration of the newly designated Downtown Oxnard Cultural District—bringing together artists, cultural leaders, and community stakeholders for a dynamic kickoff event on Wednesday, April 1 at the Oxnard Transit Center.
Hosted by the City of Oxnard, Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA), and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC), the event will transform the Transit Center into a lively hub of creativity. Attendees will experience interactive art activations, live performances, and a special lowrider on exhibit—alongside refreshments and opportunities to connect with the artists and organizations shaping the district.
Ventura County Office of Education — Science Fair & Mock Trial Results, Why Equity Matters, DC Advocacy, and more
Why Equity Matters in Our Schools
Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
Despite what you may have heard, equity in education is a straightforward, commonsense idea. It’s simply acknowledging that some students face more challenges than others. These can range from poverty and disabilities to language barriers or trauma at home.
Whatever their struggles, all students deserve the chance to succeed in school – and that’s what equity is all about. As you can see in this graphic, equity and equality are not the same thing.
Downtown celebrates Arts, Culture & Creativity Month
First Thursdays Food Trucks rolls back into Plaza Park on April 2nd, launching the 2026 season with an all-out, big hair, new wave, neon night, ’80s-throwback party featuring live music by The Beta Macks. The food truck lineup is a savory and sweet fleet of the best mobile eats in the 805. And don’t forget to hit up the makers market – imagine it like The Galleria Mall – you’ll see all your friends there!
California Oil and Gas Health Protection Law survives first-round Trump Administration attack
“Today’s decision is a win for Californians who have been saying for years that oil and gas drilling and its rampant pollution shouldn’t be anywhere near our schools, hospitals and communities,” said Tomás Rebecchi, Central Coast organizing manager at Food & Water Watch. “This is an important moment for our health and safety, which is under threat from the Trump administration, and we applaud the court for keeping this important protection in place while the lawsuit plays out.”
UCSB — The Current — UCSB professors honored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science and more news, events
The organization has elected Shelly Gable, David Morrison, Javier Read de Alaniz and Kelly Caylor to its 2025 class of fellows.
Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Show Up for Our Planet This Earth Month!
Join the Community Environmental Council (CEC) at our Earth Month events to jump into the local climate movement, connect with your community, and take meaningful action together. From festivals and celebrations to lectures and workshops — there’s something for everyone. Browse the full April events line-up below.
Ventura County Office of Education — 2026 Ventura County Science Fair Awards
VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. Cesar Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce the winners of the 2026 Ventura County Science Fair awards, which were presented at a ceremony this evening at the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) in Camarillo. Awards were given in a variety of scientific categories, including microbiology, engineering and chemistry. The winning entries were selected by about 80 local science, engineering, and education professionals who volunteered their time as judges.
Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura
County of Ventura appoints new Director of the Health Care Agency
Dr. John Fankhauser has been appointed Director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency. Fankhauser has served as the Interim Director for the Health Care Agency since January 2026. Prior to his role as Interim Director for the Health Care Agency, Fankhauser served as Chief Executive Officer for the Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) and Santa Paula Hospital since 2019, a role he continued to hold while also serving as the Interim Director.
“Dr. Fankhauser has consistently shown a deep commitment to public service, paired with the depth of expertise needed to lead complex medical systems,” said Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “His leadership in managing large-scale health care operations and his deep commitment to addressing community needs positions Dr. Fankhauser to make a meaningful and continued positive impact on our health care system. His record of strong health care leadership and experience make him exceptionally well-prepared to serve as the Director for the Health Care Agency.”
Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Turn FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) Into Action
Ever felt FOMO watching millions take to the streets for change? Now’s your chance to lock in.
We’re building a space to turn local power into real impact – right here in our community. Join us to learn how we can connect national movements like No Kings Day and May Day, and take action for an economy and democracy that work for all of us – not just the wealthy few.
Join our prep meeting on Zoom this Thursday, March 26 at 6PM!
You’ll learn how to support upcoming national actions in ways that fit you – whether that’s creating posters, dropping off flyers at local businesses and community centers, or inviting friends to march alongside you.
No Kings Day | March 28, 2026
A day to stand together and defend our communities against unjust and harmful policies. Our country belongs to the people – not to strongmen, billionaires, or those who aim to rule through fear and division.
NO KINGS 3 Santa Barbara Rally and March to start at Alameda Park, Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA — The NO KINGS 3 Santa Barbara will begin at 11 a.m. at , Alameda Park, 1400 Santa Barbara St. Primary speeches start at 12:30, and the march at around 1:30.
Prepare for warm weather: wear a hat, and carry plenty of water and sunscreen.
Our event is part of more than 3,000 rallies nationwide.
Port of Hueneme Dock Talk Community Newsletter — March 2026
The Oxnard Harbor District proudly celebrates the incredible women who help keep cargo moving every day.
From our dedicated Commissioners, Executive Leadership, and Port staff to the hardworking Longshore workers, Stevedores, and many others across our maritime community—your leadership, skill, and dedication make a lasting impact.
Thank you for all that you do!
El Concilio Family Services — Latino Leadership Awards – Now accepting nominations – Inspire the Next Generation!
El Concilio Family Services is now accepting nominations for the 36th Annual Latino Leadership Awards. Under this year’s theme, “Leadership, Art & Hope: Inspiring the Next Generation,” we seek to recognize individuals whose leadership and contributions are shaping a stronger, more vibrant community. We encourage you to submit nominations and help us highlight those who inspire others through service, innovation, and cultural impact. Submit your nomination by May 15, 2026.
Link on image above.
First Women’s Legacy of Giving Luncheon has Impactful Beginning
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY — A sea of women in yellow gathered to the brighten the lives of clients of People Helping People at the inaugural luncheon for the Women’s Legacy of Giving in the Santa Ynez Valley. Guests were encouraged to wear yellow to symbolize warmth, hope, and shared light.
The leadership of philanthropist Linda Johansen helped galvanize 72 women to join PHP’s newly formed Women’s giving circle. “When women come together, we are powerful and we can do amazing things,” Johansen told guests.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Clerk and Recorder’s Office highlights its Homeowner Protection Measures during Real Estate Fraud Prevention Month – March 2026
“As a safeguard to homeowner’s records, in 2013, the Ventura County Recorder’s office worked with the District Attorney’s office to identify the document types criminals typically use in committing real estate fraud. We began mailing out Fraud Prevention Advisory Notices to property owners immediately after one of those documents was recorded in our office, and we were one of the first counties in the entire state to do so,” said Michelle Ascencion, County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters. “We now mail on average over 4,000 notices a year.”
Cottage Health appoints Melissa Ruiz, MD, MPH, as Endowed Chair of Pediatric Residency Program
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health has appointed Melissa Ruiz, MD, MPH, as the Endowed Chair of the Pediatric Residency Program. The appointment honors both Dr. Ruiz’ contributions to medical education and the generosity of Lalage and Steven Rales, whose support has made the endowed position possible.
The endowed position will strengthen Cottage’s graduate medical education program by promoting excellence and innovation in pediatric training—supporting research, specialized education, and advanced technology.
“Dr. Ruiz embodies the values that define Cottage Health — excellence, integrity, and compassion,” said Scott Wester, President and CEO of Cottage Health. “Her appointment as endowed chair ensures that our pediatric residents will continue to learn from a leader who understands both the science of medicine and the heart of service, strengthening the future of pediatric training at Cottage.”
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara’s Summer exhibitions — Arte del Pueblo: Open call for Artists / Convocatoria Abierta para Artistas
We are thrilled to announce that Arte del Pueblo is returning to the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara for its third year and this summer, we are going bigger than ever.
Estamos emocionados de anunciar que Arte del Pueblo regresa al Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Santa Barbara para su tercer año ¡y este verano lo haremos más grande que nunca!
Bilingual report — County of Ventura agencies deliver unified permitting reform update focused on faster service and clearer processes
VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors, on Tuesday, March 24, received an update from County agencies on a series of measures to improve customer service, modernize policies, and streamline the County’s permitting process. The goal of the improvements is to make it easier for residents and businesses to complete building projects while reducing delays and confusion. The report to the Board reflects an ongoing commitment to improving how the County delivers services that directly affect daily life.
UCSB — The Current — ‘The Big Bee Project brings natural history collections into the 21st century’ and more news, events
Led by UCSB researchers, a pioneering, multi-campus initiative brings natural history collections into the era of AI, big data and networked databases.
Read more about the Big Bee Project
Ventura Charter School 5th Graders craft ceramic bowls, raise $1,190 for local farmworkers
VENTURA — With handmade ceramic bowls and homemade soup in hand, 5th graders at Ventura Charter School raised $1,190 for local farmworker families on February 6th, capping a semester spent studying the very community they were raising money for. More than 100 guests attended the third annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser, where students served homemade soup in handcrafted ceramic bowls that guests purchased to take home, raising funds for the cause. They also hosted an art gallery of human rights posters and spoke directly with guests about why the work mattered. All proceeds were donated to Friends of Field Workers and House Farm Workers Now, two organizations supporting the Ventura County farmworker community.
Bilingual report — People’s Self-Health Housing eNewsletter – March 2026
One of the great privileges of my work is the chance to speak with service members and military families. Each conversation reminds me just how often they are asked to uproot their lives: moving from base to base, state to state, sometimes across the world. Beyond the logistics of finding a new home, packing and unpacking boxes, the real disruptions run deeper. Every move means enrolling children in new schools, locating the nearest grocery store, finding a dentist who is taking new patients, discovering a new congregation, meeting new neighbors, finding where to get a haircut, identifying a reliable plumber, even deciding, once again, where to put the Christmas tree. Individually, these tasks may seem small, but repeatedly layered together, they can create isolation, instability, and lost opportunities. But these moves, at least, come with the support structures of the military.
People’s Self-Health Housing — The Blueprint – March 2026
Housing advocates nationally are hoping that 2026 will be the pivotal year for affordable housing.
The U.S. Senate has passed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act with an overwhelming 89–10 bipartisan vote. This marks the most significant federal housing reform in decades and brings together the Housing for the 21st Century Act and the ROAD to Housing Act. Combined it has more than 40 provisions aimed at boosting supply, lowering costs, and modernizing how homes get built.
The new legislation directly addresses one of the biggest issues: we simply don’t have enough homes. Our nation needs housing of every kind — for renters, first?time buyers, families, seniors, and people with disabilities. The new bill aims to tackle this shortage by making it easier, faster, and less expensive to build.
Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. closes financing on Camino De Salud, bringing 49 units of supportive affordable housing to the Ojai Valley
OJAI — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) announced today the successful closing of financing for Camino De Salud, a 49-unit supportive affordable housing development in the unincorporated Ojai Valley community of Mira Monte. Located at 11432 North Ventura Avenue, Camino De Salud will reserve half of its units for residents who are experiencing homelessness and have been high health users. The remaining units will serve low-income residents earning 50 percent or less of the area median income.
“The data on housing affordability in Ventura County is sobering, but every statistic represents a real person striving for stability and dignity,” said Victoria Brady, Chief Executive Officer. “Our work is about creating places where people can access the care, support and opportunity they need to rebuild their lives. That has always been the heart of Cabrillo EDC.”
Port of Hueneme — Running on Sunshine: Sea Splash Color Dash 5k returns in full color
ORT HUENEME — The City of Port Hueneme and the Port of Hueneme successfully hosted their third annual Sea Splash Color Dash 5K this weekend, drawing a vibrant crowd of community members for a day centered on wellness, connection, and coastal fun.
More than 800 participants gathered at Hueneme Beach before setting off along the coastal scenic beachfront course, running, walking, and celebrating as they were doused in colorful powder along the route. The high-energy event brought together families, local organizations, and visitors of all ages.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Continuum of Care announces 11.8% reduction in 2026 Homeless Point in Time Count
VENTURA — The Ventura County Continuum of Care (VC CoC) has reported preliminary results for the 2026 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count. Conducted on January 28, 2026, the count identified 1,755 individuals experiencing homelessness – a decrease of 235 people or 11.8% from 2024. Since 2023, homelessness in Ventura County has decreased by 28%.
The results reflect positive outcomes based on investments in permanent supportive housing, homelessness prevention programs, and encampment response efforts. The Ventura County Homelessness Plan (Plan) presented to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors in December 2023 provides detailed action areas, goals, and objectives that support this continued progress in reducing homelessness.
County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — 28% Decrease in Homelessness Reported in Ventura County Since 2023
Encouraging progress in Ventura County. The 2026 Point-in-Time Count shows a 28% reduction in homelessness since 2023—a meaningful step forward driven by investments in housing, prevention, and coordinated community efforts.
Behind every number in this report is a person—someone whose life is changing for the better. This progress reflects a strong, community-wide commitment to expanding housing, strengthening prevention, and meeting people where they are. We’re grateful to the many partners making this work possible.
While encouraged by these results, we remain focused on the goal: ensuring every person in Ventura County has stability, dignity, and a place to call home.
Click here to learn more.
CSUCI to host 2026 Ventura County Agricultural Education Summit on March 27
CAMARILLO — Ventura County Farm to School will host the 2026 Agricultural Education Summit at CSU Channel Islands, bringing together educators, farmers, students, and community leaders for a day of learning, collaboration, and innovation focused on the region’s agriculture industry.
The summit will take place Friday, March 27, 2026, at CSU Channel Islands’ Grand Salon, featuring hands-on workshops, expert-led discussions, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen agricultural education across Ventura County.
Guest contribution — New bill targets toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ on California Crops
AB 1603 sets a timeline to end PFAS pesticides by 2035. Group sights report that show counties at risk include Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties
SALINAS — Currently, an estimated 2.5 million pounds of toxic PFAS “forever chemicals” pesticides are used annually on California crops, resulting in PFAS residues on produce consumed across the nation. California Assemblymember Nick Schultz (D–44) has introduced AB 1603, legislation to phase out PFAS pesticides. Co-sponsored by the Environmental Working Group, the statewide coalition Californians for Pesticide Reform, Pesticide Action & Agroecology Network, and the Center for Environmental Health, the bill would establish a progressive timeline to end use of PFAS pesticides in California by 2035, while giving growers time for transition to safer alternatives.
Bilingual report — 150 community photographs capture what it means to thrive in Ventura County
THOUSAND OAKS — From coastal landscapes to quiet family moments, 150 photographs submitted by residents across Ventura County and neighboring communities will debut this month in THRIVE: Ventura County, a community photography exhibition exploring themes of hope, connection, and well-being across the region. Selected from more than 250 submissions by photographers of all ages and backgrounds, the exhibition offers a collective portrait of what it means to thrive in our communities.
Presented by TOArts in partnership with SeeingHappy, a global nonprofit that uses photography and positive psychology to foster belonging and well-being, THRIVE: Ventura County is designed as a true community collaboration—bringing together artists, residents, nonprofit organizations, libraries, local businesses, and cultural partners to celebrate creativity as a pathway to connection and well-being. The initiative is also TOArts’ first fully bilingual (English-Spanish) arts project, expanding participation and accessibility across the region’s diverse communities.
Nate’s Place awarded $5.71 million state grant to build new recovery campus and youth wellness center
VENTURA — Nate’s Place, A Wellness and Recovery Center, a nonprofit serving youth and young adults across Ventura County, has been awarded a $5.71 million grant through the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) to build a significantly expanded youth wellness and recovery campus.
Oxnard joining other cities nationwide to rename annual César Chávez event on March 22 in light of allegations linked to the farm labor leader
Groups move swiftly nationwide to remove images, honors for César Chávez, while others promote access to sexual assault and mental health counseling services
By Frank X. Moraga • www.Amigos805.com © 2025
OXNARD — Oxnard is joining other cities nationwide in renaming their annual César Chávez celebration in light of the sexual assault allegations linked to the late farm labor leader.
“March for Justice! March for Farmworkers rights! Sunday March 22, 2026 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard. The events starts at 3:30 pm.,” according to a Facebook post by Javier Gomez, founder of the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center in Oxnard.
Since early this month, cities across the nation either canceled or renamed their celebrations ahead of the labor leader’s birthday on March 31, 2026. Their actions followed news of a potential explosive story by a national publication that was first reported by the San Antonio Express-News on March 6, 2026. The reports focused on revelations of a “sensitive matter” involving Chavez.
Those reports were confirmed when an extensive story by the New York Times was published on March 18 detailing allegations of years of sexual abuse by Chavez of minors and sexual assault incidents involving farmworkers rights labor leader Dolores Huerta. Huerta confirmed those assaults in the story.
Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — CAUSE Stands with Survivors in the Farmworker Movement. Please see related stories
We are heartbroken feeling the profound grief in our communities from the emerging allegations of sexual abuse by Cesar Chavez. We stand with all of the survivors, from Dolores Huerta herself to those whose names we may never know. Far too many women are harmed by powerful men while giving their blood, sweat, and tears to social movements, and choose silence in order to protect the work they have dedicated their lives to. These revelations are even more hurtful as they run contrary to the very spirit of worker organizations which exist to harness the collective power of workers against those who use their power to cause harm. We must all recommit ourselves to the work of making our movements safe places to call home and condemn leaders abusing their power in all forms.
League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Statement on Cesar Chavez
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) unequivocally condemns any form of sexual violence against women and minors and strongly denounces the actions alleged involving the late Cesar Chavez. No individual, regardless of stature or legacy, is above accountability when it comes to protecting and upholding the dignity of others. LULAC stands with all victims of sexual abuse and affirms that no one has the right to exploit or harm children or women under any circumstances. We extend our deepest concern and solidarity to those who have suffered.
Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Need a Passport? Join me at the Passport Fair in Camarillo on Sat., April 11
Helping residents across Ventura County and the Conejo Valley access federal services is one of the most important parts of my work in Congress. If you are considering traveling abroad, it is imperative that you keep your passport up to date. It’s important to note that some countries require that your passport be valid six months beyond the date of your trip.
I want to make sure that obtaining or renewing a passport is made as easy as possible. For that reason, I am hosting a Passport Fair on Saturday, April 11, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at the Ventura County Office of Education, located at 5100 Adolfo Road, Camarillo, CA 93012.
Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — New Housing Protections in Ventura County: Know Your Rights
Our tenant organizing in Ventura County has led to exciting wins to protect renters in our communities.
Many tenants are forced to live with unsafe or poor conditions as if it’s normal. Small issues – like a broken stove or a leaking faucet – often go unrepaired, even after being reported multiple times. Over time, these problems get worse and can make a home unsafe, putting families’ health at risk.
Bilingual report — Downtown Oxnard Cultural District takes center stage at Arts, Culture & Creativity Month kick-off on April 1
OXNARD — The Oxnard arts community will launch Arts, Culture & Creativity Month this April with a vibrant celebration of the newly designated Downtown Oxnard Cultural District, bringing together artists, cultural leaders, and community stakeholders for a dynamic public kickoff event.
Hosted by the City of Oxnard, the Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA), and the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC), the event will take place at the John C. Zaragoza Transit Center is an inspired and accessible venue that reflects the district’s creativity through large-scale murals, interactive pop-up art experiences, and locally crafted offerings, including bespoke coffee from Dolce Vita.
County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Heat advisory for Ventura County through Friday
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services, Public Health Office, and the National Weather Service are monitoring a prolonged heat event through Friday, March 20.
?? Temperatures are expected to be up to 25° above normal, with inland areas reaching the 90s and even 100s.
Habitat Ventura’s Women Build 2026 mobilizes community to provide necessary repairs for senior residents
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.
9/11 Survivor and wellness visionary Ana Maria Lugo to co-host ‘Rooted: A Wellness Summit” in Oxnard
OXNARD — On Sunday, May 3, 2026, OPAC (the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit) in partnership with Raising Mami Alchemy, Inc., will host Rooted: A Wellness Summit, a first-of-its-kind immersive gathering designed to bridge indigenous culture, mental health, and somatic healing. The summit is co-led by Ana Maria Lugo, a wellness educator and holistic practitioner whose personal journey from 9/11 survivor to community healer has transformed wellness access for thousands in Ventura County.
The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara celebrates 23 Family Self-Sufficiency graduates
SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) recently celebrated 23 graduates who completed the organization’s Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program. These 23 graduates have a combined escrow of $578,608.93 and an average income increase of $43,007. Of this group, seven are no longer receiving housing assistance.
Bilingual report — Ventura’s Summer Activity Guide has arrived!
VENTURA — The Parks & Recreation Summer Activity Guide is available online at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ActivityGuide. Registration begins Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. and will be available online, over the phone, or in person at City Hall, Room 226, 501 Poli Street. Registration information and policies are on page 7.
Museum of Ventura County — Celebrating 2026 Women of the Year in Ventura County
The Museum of Ventura County’s Board of Directors and staff are proud to celebrate two remarkable women whose leadership and dedication strengthen our organization and community. Dr. Sevet Johnson, MVC Board Member, and Elena Brokaw, MVC’s Barbara Barnard Smith CEO, have each been recognized as 2026 Women of the Year.
Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Stop Replacing and Start Repairing at Repair Cafe Santa Barbara in March 21
Join us at Repair Cafe Santa Barbara to give your broken items a second life. This is a simple, but impactful way to take meaningful climate action that benefits you and the planet. By making small, conscious choices, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.
Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara announces 2026 Summer Music Festival & School
View in Browser Music Academy of the West announces 2026 Summer Music Festival & School American Mosaic: The 79th annual Summer Music Festival celebrates American voices, June 17–August 8 in Santa Barbara Subscriptions on sale April 9 Individual tickets…
Bilingual report — Ventura County Probation Agency and Ventura County Library expand access to literacy programs for youth in custody
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Probation Agency and the Ventura County Library have launched an innovative partnership to bring tailored library services directly into the County’s Juvenile Facilities through the new Next Chapter Library. This pilot initiative marks a significant step toward expanding educational access and literacy opportunities for youth under custodial supervision.
Teatro de las Américas celebrates Opening Night! of Manifest Destinitis on March 13
Have you heard the buzz about Teatro De Las Americas’s spectacular production of Manifest Destinitis? (The political comedy satire) is an event you absolutely can’t miss! Secure your seat today by grabbing your tickets online. Join us for an unforgettable experience!
Santa Paula Art Museum — ‘Cornelis Botke: Painter of the Western Scene’ opens March 14!, more upcoming events
Be the first to see our all-new exhibit on Saturday, March 14! Santa Paula artist Cornelis Botke (1887-1954) is best remembered as a master etcher whose work earned international acclaim and entered the collections of the California State Library, the Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian Institution. Yet from childhood, Botke’s greatest ambition was to be a painter.
Ventura County Community Foundation presenting ‘Isabella Project’ Lunch & Learn on March 26
The Ventura County Community Foundation is collaborating with over 150 community partners for our Highest-Quality Early Childhood Education initiative in Santa Paula, known as the “Isabella Project.” We invite you to learn more about the different committee members and groups dedicated to removing all barriers to accessing highest-quality early childhood education in our community.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Tiffany Chung’s exhibition at the AD&A Museum maps history within deep geological time’ and more news, events
The first comprehensive museum survey of the Vietnamese American artist brings together more than 70 works spanning 25 years of research-driven practice.
Read more about the exhibition