Category: Women

Museum of Ventura County — Your Museum, Your Community | Quarterly Update from the Development Team

I want to begin this quarterly update with what may be one of my favorite things I have ever had the opportunity to report.

Our longtime Facilities Manager, Miguel Aguiar, recently purchased a commemorative Museum tile, not for himself, but in honor of the people he has worked alongside throughout his years at MVC.

Miguel held a small unveiling ceremony with staff and volunteers to recognize four people he affectionately referred to as “my blessings”: Shanon Rice, David Bayer, Clyde Hofflund, and John Treuer. These are people who have worked alongside Miguel and the Museum over the years, giving their time and talents to help make so many of our events and gatherings possible.

November at the Santa Paula Art Museum

The year is swiftly coming to a close, but we’ve saved some of our best events for last! In November, don’t miss the premiere of Jim Wilson’s solo exhibition, our Día de los Muertos Free Family Day, downtown Santa Paula’s Holiday Sip & Shop, and more. (It’s also a great time to make a tax-deductible year-end donation to support the Museum!)

Bilingual report — Ventura County residents urged to eliminate standing water following recent rainfall to prevent mosquito breeding

VENTURA — Following last week’s rainfall and with warmer temperatures expected this week, the Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) is urging residents to eliminate standing water around their homes and properties to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus (WNV). The reminder comes as the California Department of Public Health reports West Nile virus activity at a five-year high statewide.

Standing water left in outdoor containers can quickly become a breeding source for mosquitoes. In as little as seven days, mosquito eggs can hatch, larvae can develop, and adult mosquitoes can emerge. With mosquito activity continuing into the fall, recent rainfall, and warmer temperatures may contribute to increased mosquito populations throughout Ventura County.

Bilingual report — Women’s Economic Ventures to celebrate 35 years of impact with 35 for 35 Business Showcase 

VENTURA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) will celebrate 35 years of empowering women and strengthening local economies with its 35 for 35 Business Showcase on Tuesday, December 8, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Museum of Ventura County. Open to the public, the event will spotlight 35 WEV-supported businesses and bring together entrepreneurs, supporters, and community members to celebrate the people and partnerships that have shaped WEV’s legacy since 1991. 

For 35 years, WEV has helped women build the knowledge, confidence, and connections to pursue entrepreneurship and greater financial independence. Behind that work are generations of business owners who have turned ideas into livelihoods, created jobs, supported their families, and contributed to the vitality of Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. The showcase will bring that legacy to life through the businesses and people at its heart. 

People’s Self-Help Housing now accepting applications for Skylight Homes: New for-sale homes in Santa Maria

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has begun construction on Skylight Homes: a new, for-sale, single-family subdivision in Santa Maria. Interested buyers are encouraged to sign up for the interest list and attend a mandatory Agricultural Worker Project Presentation to begin the application process.  

Located at 3170 Santa Maria Way, Skylight Homes will consist of 49 new homes, built over two phases of construction. The subdivision is surrounded by existing single-family neighborhoods, shopping centers, schools, and community parks. Each home will come with: 

Ventura Music Festival — That’s a wrap on the Fall series. We’d love your feedback!

The Board and Staff of the Festival value your feedback! If you attended any of the Fall Series concerts as a patron or a volunteer, please fill out our short survey. You’ll automatically be entered to win a pair of tickets to Chanticleer or a 2027 standard concert of your choice!

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing October 2026 e-newsletter

Our newest owner-builders are beginning their homeownership journey at Mission Gardens II in San Miguel! This new development is bringing 14 new single-story homes for first-time homebuyers to the community, with each household contributing over 1,600 hours of construction labor in lieu of a down payment. Learn more about Mission Gardens II and our build your own home program at pshhc.org!

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara celebrates Grand Opening of Bella Vista Affordable Housing Development

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) celebrated the grand opening of Bella Vista, its new affordable housing development at 200 North La Cumbre Road, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday.

The 48-unit development provides affordable rental housing for families with low and very low incomes, offering a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. All units are subsidized through Section 8 Project-Based Vouchers, allowing residents to pay 30% of their income toward rent.

Explore Lompoc — News from Lompoc: Explore Space Country at Vandenberg’s Space And Missile Technology Center

LOMPOC — The countdown ends.  Engines ignite. A rocket climbs into the sky, leaving a bright trail above the California coast.

For a few unforgettable moments, all eyes are on the sky.  In Lompoc, this kind of space-age excitement is part of the destination.

Welcome to Space Country, where you can watch a launch, explore the technology behind the missions, and get an up-close look at space history at the Space and Missile Technology Center (SAMTEC).

Central Coast Alliance United for A Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Years of organizing. A historic victory for Santa Barbara tenants

The fight for rent stabilization in Santa Barbara has been years in the making, built by our community that keeps showing up, organizing, and building power together.Through long meetings, countless conversations, public comments, and years of organizing, we kept showing up and building power together. And last week, that persistence paid off: Santa Barbara City Council adopted the rent stabilization ordinance!

Make a one-time or monthly donation to help us keep building on this historic victory!

Catherine Brozowski, Chuck Flacks, and Dr. Jesus Fandino to be honored at the 2027 LEAP Awards

GOLETA — Catherine Brozowski, Executive Director of the Audacious Foundation, and Chuck Flacks, Homelessness Services Coordinator for the City of Goleta and former president of LEAP’s Board of Directors, will be honored at the 2027 LEAP Awards, alongside Dr. Jesus Fandino, who will be recognized as Distinguished Alumnus.

The 2027 LEAP Awards Luncheon will be held at the stunning Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort on Friday, February 26, 2027. The lunch will bring together community leaders, philanthropists, and partners who believe in creating thriving futures for children and families.

Tickets and tables are on sale now and may be purchased online at: https://leapcentralcoast.org/event/2027-leap-awards/

Women’s Economic Ventures celebrates 35 Years, recognizes Trailblazer Awardee Kelly Mooney and WEV’s Giving Circle the League of Extraordinary Women

SANTA BARBARA — On Oct. 7, WEV brought together community members, philanthropists and advocates at La Cumbre Country Club for its annual League of Extraordinary Women Luncheon in recognition of National Give to Women & Girls Day. The gathering celebrated the collective generosity that makes WEV’s work possible and called attention to the importance of investing in women’s economic futures.

Since its founding in 1991, WEV has worked to ensure women have access to the education, training, financial resources and support they need to shape their own futures. That work matters not only to individual women, but also to the families and communities strengthened when women have greater financial security and more choices.

Oxnard Performing Arts Center to present 7th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration on Oct. 25

OXNARD — Join us for a mesmerizing and heartfelt celebration of life and remembrance at OPAC’s 7th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration from 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25 at 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard.

For seven years, we’ve gathered in the heart of Oxnard to honor our ancestors and celebrate the rich traditions of Mexican culture.

Immerse yourself in a vibrant experience filled with colorful calacas, beautifully adorned ofrendas, captivating performances, local food vendors, and the warmth of community. Whether you’re new to this tradition or have celebrated with us for years, all are welcome to come together, honor those who came before us, and embrace the beauty of life, remembrance, and tradition.

Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Museum of Art — Celebrate Día de los Muertos with a Free Family Day on Oct. 25

SANTA BARBARA — For the 37th year, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art honors the Mexican tradition of remembering the dead with a display of altars, created by students in the Museum’s school and outreach programs and local community groups from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25. The Art Learning Lab will offer Día de los Muertos-inspired art activities for all ages on the Front Terrace.

Explore a vibrant display of community-created altars, engage in hands-on art activities for all ages, and enjoy a festive Calenda procession featuring traditional music and dance from Oaxaca and Guerrero.

Panteón Fest returns to Oxnard for its Fourth Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration on Oct. 17

OXNARD — Pipiripau will host the fourth annual Panteón Fest on Saturday, Oct. 17, at Heritage Square in downtown Oxnard from 1:00 to 9:00 PM. This year’s festival pays homage to Chespirito, the beloved Mexican comedian and creator of El Chavo del Ocho and El Chapulín Colorado.

“Panteón Fest is about bringing our community together to celebrate our culture, remember where we come from, and create something meaningful for the next generation,” said co-founders Rolando and Heriberto Rubalcava.

Wells Fargo invests $100,000 to support People’s Self-Help Housing Education Program

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH)  has received a generous $100,000 grant from Wells Fargo in support of Central Coast students enrolled in their education program and to help launch their newest Learning Center at Buellton Garden Apartments.
 
For families with school-aged children, PSHH’s eight onsite Learning Centers offer a safe, engaging environment where students receive homework assistance, participate in enrichment activities, build confidence, and develop skills that support long-term academic success. These year-round services are all provided at no cost to the families, thanks to partners like Wells Fargo.

Port of Hueneme — DOCK TALK – Community Newsletter – October 2026

The Port of Hueneme’s 13th Annual Banana Festival set a second consecutive attendance record as nearly 19,000 guests came to the Port for a celebratory day of live music, banana treats, tours, a classic car show, and family-friendly fun. This year’s theme, “Gateway to the World,” highlighted the Port’s role in connecting local consumers to global goods and markets.

City of Ventura prepares emergency winter shelter ahead of anticipated El Niño storms

VENTURA — As the City of Ventura prepares for potential El Niño storms this fall and winter, plans are underway to provide emergency shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness during severe weather. The El Niño Winter Shelter will be activated when forecasts indicate flash flooding, including anticipated rainfall exceeding half an inch per hour, to provide safety to unsheltered individuals living in riverbeds and other flood-prone areas. 

Located at the National Guard Armory at 1270 Arundell Avenue, the shelter will provide up to 120 emergency beds during extreme rainfall events between October 15, 2026, through April 15, 2027. 

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria stands ready to activate as resilience hub as El Niño brings uncertainty

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is reaffirming the organization’s commitment to emergency preparedness and community resilience as El Niño brings uncertainty about unpredictable and potentially dangerous weather.

The Girls Inc. of Carpinteria (GIC) campus, located at 5315 Foothill Rd. in Carpinteria, is well-equipped in the event of an emergency — with large indoor and outdoor spaces, an industrial-sized kitchen stocked with necessities, and basic supplies at the ready.

Under normal circumstances, these features equip GIC to serve the more than 700 girls and young women who access their programs each year. In the event of an emergency, they would allow the organization to respond to a crisis by offering food, shelter, and other resiliency resources.

Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees has selected Hancock Elisa Pardo to fill Area 1 seat

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees has selected Hancock alum and longtime community leader Elisa Pardo to represent Trustee Area 1, filling the vacancy left by outgoing trustee Hilda Zacarías.

The board selected Pardo during a special meeting Oct. 9, and she was officially sworn in at its Oct. 13 regular meeting at Santa Ynez Valley High School.

Santa Barbara Museum of Art Exhibitions & Events Oct. 13 through 25

Celebrate Día de los Muertos with a Free Family Day
Sunday, October 25
11 am – 4 pm

Explore a vibrant display of community-created altars, engage in hands-on art activities for all ages, and enjoy a festive Calenda procession featuring traditional music and dance from Oaxaca and Guerrero.
Now in its third year, the procession, produced by the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara, celebrates Mexican traditions while bringing the community together in a joyful expression of remembrance, culture, and connection.

HASC celebrates Cottage Nurse Paula Gallucci as a 2026 My SoCal Hospital Hero

 SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is proud to announce that Paula Gallucci, BSN, RN, CCRN, Manager, Medical Intensive Care Unit, has been selected as a 2026 My SoCal Hospital Hero by the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC). The honor recognizes employees across Southern California hospitals who contribute to outstanding patient care through embodying excellence, compassion and dedication in their work every day.

Paula was chosen for her extraordinary impact on patients, colleagues and the hospital community. She leads with a unique combination of clinical rigor, creative energy and boundless compassion. In a high-stakes environment, she brings the steady, inspired leadership that transforms a critical care unit into a place where people want to work – and patients and families feel genuinely cared for.

Dog adoptions up 42% at the HSVC, and a new program is open to 805 residents

OJAI — Not everyone can take a shelter dog home, but almost anyone can give one a few hours away from the kennel. The Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) is officially rolling out its Dog Day Out program to the public. Community members can take a dog out for a hike, a ride or a quiet afternoon at home, with no foster or adoption commitment.

HSVC is giving more dogs homes, and faster. Through August, dog adoptions are up 42% over the same period last year (223 compared with 157), and half of adopted dogs now go home within 14 days, compared with 24 days last year. HSVC hopes Dog Day Out — a program used by shelters nationwide and linked in research to higher adoption rates — will keep this momentum going and help its longest-staying dogs find homes.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula City Council approves temporary pause on certain RV parking enforcement

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is temporarily pausing enforcement of certain recreational vehicle (RV) parking regulations following a unanimous (5-0) City Council decision on October 7, 2026. The temporary pause allows the City to review its existing ordinance and explore potential updates with input from the community. The decision follows ongoing public comments and concerns from residents regarding RV parking restrictions and their impact on the community.

Bilingual guest contribution — 805 UNDOCUFund — Operation Safe California targets the Central Coast-100 community members disappeared in five days

Thank you for standing with us during these increasingly difficult times. At 805UndocuFund, our mission has always been rooted in protecting the dignity and safety of undocumented and mixed-status families across Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. Today, that work is more urgent than ever.

Central Coast United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Our communities, our power

CENTRAL COAST — For nearly two years, immigrant communities across the Central Coast have faced kidnapping, family separation, and escalating violence at the hands of ICE. And now, as Californians begin to vote, ICE activity is surging – in an attempt to bring more fear and intimidation into our communities.

As of Tuesday afternoon, at least 32 of our neighbors in the region have been taken by ICE this week. Parents. Neighbors. Workers. Families torn apart.

But we are not powerless. We know how to respond. We know how to protect each other. We know how to organize. And we know that information is power.

Ventura Music Festival — Last Call for Tea! Just 23 Tickets Remain. More upcoming events

23 seats left for scones, sandwiches, and lively brass at the historic Pierpont Inn – get yours now, because these won’t last the weekend!

Some traditions are worth dressing up for. Picture it: a sunny Sunday afternoon at the historic Pierpont Inn. A pot of tea at your table. Warm scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and a tempting tower of pastries. And then, the trumpets. Tea & Trumpets is one of those VMF experiences that, once you’ve been, you make sure you don’t miss. It’s civilized and joyful in equal measure, and this Sunday, it opens our 2026 Fall Series. There are just 33 tickets left. Once they’re gone, they’re gone, so grab your seat before someone else gets your scone!

TOArts expands National Geographic Live 2026–27 season beyond the stage

THOUSAND OAKS — TOArts is bringing National Geographic Live back to the Bank of America Performing Arts Center for the 2026–27 season, with four acclaimed explorers whose work spans wildlife filmmaking, ecology, photography and the science of sound. This year, with support from Bank of America, TOArts is adding on to the on the onstage experience with creative programming and expanded student access designed to bring audiences even closer to the ideas, stories and people behind each presentation.

Bilingual report — CenCal Health launches member navigation hub to help at-risk residents keep Medi-Cal coverage

SANTA BARBARA — In response to Medi-Cal eligibility, enrollment and renewal changes affecting an estimated 44,000 local residents, CenCal Health and a coalition of community partners have launched Central Coast Coverage, a regional member navigation hub that helps eligible individuals keep their health coverage and avoid disruptions in care.

Supported by a $2 million investment from CenCal Health – the region’s Medi-Cal health plan serving more than 220,000 members in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties – the new resource connects residents with navigation assistance, resource guides, and information about Medi-Cal. 

Bilingual report — County of Ventura highlights winter storm preparations, encourages residents to get ready now

VENTURA — On Tuesday, October 6, the Board of Supervisors heard a report on the County’s inter-agency efforts to prepare for a potentially strong El Niño storm season. Staff from the Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services, Fire Department, Public Works Agency, and the County’s Public Information Office shared updates on work already underway to help ensure the community is storm ready ahead of a potentially wetter winter.

Pre-season efforts are focused on reducing risk and ensuring the County is ready to respond quickly if significant storms impact local communities. Preparations include inspecting and maintaining flood-control infrastructure, clearing drainage systems and debris basins, preparing swift water rescue resources, and coordinating emergency response plans for areas at higher risk of flooding and debris flows. The County’s Public Works Agency has already removed more than 235,000 cubic yards of material from detention basins and waterways in preparation for the winter storm season.

Monica Tull launches Presidio Private, a Santa Barbara-based fiduciary, to help families prepare for the ‘What Ifs’

“People are usually pretty good at planning for the life they expect to have,” Tull said. “It’s the things we haven’t thought through that can leave families scrambling. I want to help people think about those situations before they happen, rather than trying to sort everything out in the middle of a crisis.”

Ventura Harbor Village invites families, furry friends and witches to celebrate Halloween By the Sea

VENTURA  — Halloween gets a coastal twist this October as Ventura Harbor Village welcomes families, witches, zombies, four-legged companions and Halloween enthusiasts to celebrate Fall with a festive lineup of Seaside Halloween happenings.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Ventura Harbor, this year’s Halloween festivities feature a dog costume contest, family-friendly trick-or-treating, Halloween entertainment and activities, and the colorful spectacle of costumed witches and warlocks paddling across the harbor. Visitors can also enjoy waterfront dining, shopping, harbor views and attractions throughout Ventura Harbor Village.

Museum of Ventura County — You’re invited to the opening reception – Jungleland, USA

Jungleland, USA celebrates the 100th anniversary of the founding of the legendary tourist attraction that put Thousand Oaks on the map. Jungleland was home to animal stars of the silver screen like Tamba the Chimp and Leo the MGM Lion, and featured animal trainer Mabel Stark.

Dr. Adrian Hill Joins Cottage Primary Care–Goleta

SANTA BARBARA — Dr. Adrian Hill, a primary care physician specializing in internal medicine, has joined Cottage Primary Care – Goleta, where she practices alongside Drs. Daniel Crossman, Amir Jalilian, Casey Whipple and Jayson Wright.

A Santa Barbara native, Dr. Hill is grateful for the opportunity to continue caring for patients in the community that shaped her.

Bilingual report — New live webcam offers real-time views of historic Ventura Pier and coastline

VENTURA — A new live webcam overlooking the historic Ventura Pier and City beach is giving residents, visitors, and viewers around the world a real-time look at one of Ventura’s most treasured landmarks. The launch comes just in time to celebrate the 154th anniversary of the original Ventura Wharf, completed on October 5, 1872. Today, the Ventura Pier is the oldest pier in California.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Last chance: Tell CEC what matters to you. Upcoming events

There’s still time to share your perspective with CEC — but our community survey is closing soon!

We’re asking Central Coast residents to share how they want to hear from CEC and what would make it easier to connect with the climate action work happening in our communities. Your feedback will help us better understand how to reach more people and create accessible pathways to get involved.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. celebrates 45 years of bringing community home

“Over forty-five years ago, a group of farmworker families worked together to protect their homes, and everything we have built since carries that same spirit forward,” said Victoria Brady, Chief Executive Officer of Cabrillo EDC. “This milestone belongs to the residents who have trusted us, the staff who have dedicated their careers to this mission, and the partners and supporters who have stood beside us through decades of growth. We are proud of how far we have come, and just as excited about what the next 45 years will bring.”

CSUCI doctoral student Liliana Manriquez Loza receives CSU’s highest student honor

Manriquez Loza is one of 22 students across the CSU selected for the annual award, which recognizes superior academic performance, personal accomplishments, community service and financial need. She was honored as the CSU Foundation Board Member Ron and Mitzi Barhorst Scholar during the CSU Board of Trustees meeting on Sept. 22.

A first-generation college student, Manriquez Loza is pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership for Equity and Justice at CSUCI, where she maintains a 3.9 GPA. Her academic and professional work reflects a longstanding commitment to empowering Indigenous communities and improving educational opportunities for historically underserved students and families.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura prepares for winter weather amid strong El Niño forecast

VENTURA — The County of Ventura is taking proactive steps to coordinate efforts across agencies to strengthen readiness, identify potential resource and informational needs, and ensure infrastructure resiliency ahead of what could potentially be a very active winter season. The National Weather Service is forecasting that significant El Niño conditions will continue to intensify through the end of 2026, with the possibility of these conditions creating the strongest event on record. The presence of strong El Niño conditions raises the likelihood of Ventura County experiencing a stormier, wetter than usual winter. 

Community Colleges of Ventura County to host State of the District event

CAMARILLO  —The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) is inviting the community to hear directly from its leadership at its State of the District event, bringing together elected officials, regional industry and nonprofit partners, educational leaders and friends of the district to celebrate the work of VCCCD’s students, faculty and employees, reflect on the District’s progress and look ahead to what’s next. The free, public event takes place Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at the Camarillo Public Library. 

Chancellor Rick MacLennan, joined by Moorpark College President Julius Sokenu, Oxnard College Interim President Steve Hall and Ventura College President Luca Lewis, will offer a firsthand look at how VCCCD is responding to a changing Ventura County and creating more ways for students to access education, build careers and find opportunity close to home.

October at the Santa Paula Art Museum

Fans of the spooky season will love our October events and classes! Don’t miss our Halloween-themed Free Family Day, creative classes inspired by ghosts, skulls, and haunted houses, and more frightfully fun ways to celebrate fall.

ForestWatch-sponsored ‘Outdoors for All’ bill signed into law

CENTRAL COAST — Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed SB 1268, the Outdoors for All Initiative, into law, establishing the initiative in state law and creating a lasting framework for expanding equitable access to parks, open spaces, trails, beaches, forests, and other outdoor public recreation spaces across California.

Los Padres ForestWatch proudly co-sponsored SB 1268, authored by Senator Lena Gonzalez, because the organization sees a direct connection between protecting public lands and ensuring more people can experience, enjoy, and build relationships with them.

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan awards more than $2 million in grants to providers and community organizations to help Medi-Cal members navigate changes

“With Medi-Cal changes rolling out over the next year, we want to ensure our providers and community organizations have the resources they need to help members navigate the upcoming changes,” said Dr. Felix Nuñez, GCHP’s chief executive officer. “With these grants, our goal is to minimize coverage disruptions for eligible members so they have continuous access to high-quality care and services.”

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Health Housing Sept. 2026 eNewsletter

This month, we opened a new Learning Center at Buellton Garden Apartments! Enrollment forms and more information can be found at pshhc.org/education.

The Buellton Garden Apartments Learning Center is made possible through generous grants from Wells Fargo and the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation.

Santa Barbara Museum of Art Exhibitions & Events Sept. 29 through Oct. 11

Get ready to see Mary Cassatt in a new light. Come see Cassatt & Friends, a new exhibition that offers an intimate look at the creative connections between drawing and printmaking among Mary Cassatt and her contemporaries. While Cassatt is best known for her luminous paintings, she was also an accomplished printmaker—and SBMA’s permanent collection includes a number of her printed works. At the heart of the exhibition is Simone in a White Bonnet Seated with Clasped Hands (No.1), a unique counterproof created by dampening a pastel drawing and pressing it onto another sheet of paper to transfer the pigment and create a mirror image.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Fall arts abound across campus and community’ and more news, events

In a multinational megastudy, social psychologist Hongbo Yu and collaborators analyze gratitude practices across 34 countries, with findings that illustrate the importance of cultural context.

Read more about practicing gratitude

VCCF Power of Purpose – September 2026

Dear Ventura County Community Foundation family,

Today I invite you to watch one of my favorite TED Talks of all time: Drew Dudley’s “Everyday Leadership.”

In just six minutes, Dudley reminds us that we are all leaders. We tend to associate leadership only with enormous achievements, defining moments or extraordinary individuals. When we do that, leadership starts to feel inaccessible, something reserved only for other people. But our capacity to change another person’s life, and our community’s future, is far greater than we realize.

CSUCI invites community to Dolphin Pantry Donation Drive and Free OLLI Seminar

CAMARILLO — Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI) is inviting the community to support students experiencing food and basic-needs insecurity during the CSUCI Dolphin Pantry Donation Drive on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at Studio Channel Islands Art Center, 2222 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo.

The event is presented through a collaboration among CSUCI Basic Needs, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSUCI, and Studio Channel Islands Art Center. The eventconnects a passion for lifelong learning with the shared purpose of supporting CSUCI students.