… Please be assured that in partnership with our esteemed colleagues in the housing community across the nation, we are staying informed and engaged, and making our voice heard to both our federal and state elected officials. We encourage you to voice your support too wherever and however you can. Our newsletter The Blueprint is a great resource to learn more about what is happening to housing, and we continue to thank you for your advocacy.
THOUSAND OAKS — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA seeks sponsors for its 26th Annual National Day of Prayer Breakfast. The breakfast is on Thursday, May 1 at CLU’s Gilbert Sports Center in Thousand Oaks. The breakfast brings the spiritual communities of all faiths together to celebrate fellowship and prayer. The theme this year is “Hope.”
The prayer breakfast is from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and will include speakers, and spiritual and community leaders providing invocations and prayers. Former Rams All-Pro tackle Andrew Whitworth is the keynote speaker.
The Music Academy of the West, now in its 78th season, offers an unparalleled blend of world-class performances and musical discovery with the 2025 Summer Music Festival & School themed “Soundtrack to Summer.” The Festival showcases international artists performing alongside 150 of the Academy’s gifted young musicians and 60 esteemed teaching artists in 120 one-of-a-kind performances, including orchestral and chamber performances, a full-scale opera, plus masterclasses, competitions, and groundbreaking new works — a must for classical music lovers.
Join us inside the Museum for an afternoon of art, live music, a petite live auction, and the presentation of the 2025 Mary Alice Orcutt Henderson Visionary Award to David Schwabauer.
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Drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Tickets are $125 per person and include two complimentary drink tickets. Advance ticket purchase is recommended. All proceeds from the event benefit the Santa Paula Art Museum and its community arts programs.
SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) on March 17 celebrated the 24 graduates who have completed the organization’s Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program with a dinner at the Presidio Springs property, located at 721 Laguna St. Among the 24 graduates, seven have transitioned out of the Housing Authority program, and one graduate is a homeowner.
The FSS Program is a voluntary five year program in which a plan is developed with each participant to design a clear path of specific goals and objectives in order to achieve living wage employment and gain economic self-sufficiency.
The cuts and changes directed by the current administration and the journey of the federal budget affects us all, whether as individuals or as in our case a nonprofit organization. The bumpy uncertainty has left many with feelings ranging from discouragement to dismissal.
Though our financing for development and operating is widely varied and highly diversified, People’s Self-Help Housing relies on numerous sources of federal funding, and decisions being made today will affect our work. The federal sources most affecting our work include funding from Congress through the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and US Department of Agriculture Rural Development (USDA RD). It remains to be seen how extensively the current directives may negatively impact new affordable housing production.
Nowruz: Persian New Year Celebration
Sunday, March 23
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College and California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) in San Luis Obispo are partnering to significantly expand access to in-person baccalaureate degrees in northern Santa Barbara County.
Beginning in fall 2026, Cal Poly will offer a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus, providing local students with access to a high-quality and affordable bachelor’s degree. Cal Poly is also committing to launching two additional yet-to-be-named bachelor’s degrees in 2028 and 2030.
“We’re incredibly honored to celebrate these community champions today,” said Lori Goodman, Executive Director of LEAP. “Dr. Lynn Fitzgibbons has been instrumental in advancing healthcare and medical education in our community. Ernesto Paredes has devoted his career to advocating for families and improving accessibility. Amir Abo-Shaeer, our first Distinguished Alumnus, continues to transform education through innovation. Each of these remarkable individuals embodies LEAP’s mission of supporting families and children across Santa Barbara County.”
VENTURA — The Ventura CARE Policy, a proposed ordinance to strengthen protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, reproductive rights, and immigrant communities, is facing mounting opposition ahead of a critical City Council vote on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Supporters are urged to attend the meeting and make their voices heard.
At a recent Rules Committee meeting, opponents mobilized to challenge the policy, and a larger presence is expected at the upcoming vote. To ensure Ventura upholds its values of inclusion, safety, and human rights, community members must show up in force.
“This grant will provide much-needed support for individuals living in encampments,” said Ventura Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “Addressing homelessness remains a top priority for our City Council, and we are committed to investing in programs that tackle root causes while offering both immediate and long-term solutions.”
The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, March 18, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.
VENTURA — Tax season is upon us and low- to moderate-income Ventura County residents are encouraged to take advantage of ways to put more money back in their pocket with the help of United Way of Ventura County’s (UWVC) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA).
Throughout March to April 30, 2024, trained VITA volunteer tax preparers will help working families and individuals file their state and federal tax return and access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Households earning up to $67,000 are eligible to use the free services.
To have your return prepared and e-filed VIRTUALLY by a tax preparation volunteer visit GetYourRefund.org/vcunitedway to upload tax documents using either computer or cell phone.
“This event is about more than just celebration; it’s about action,” said Nicki Parr, WEV’s CEO. “Economic independence is not just a personal achievement—it’s a pathway to social change. When women build businesses, they change communities: generating revenue, creating jobs and contributing significantly to the local economy.”
Assemblymember Bennett, who represents Camarillo, Fillmore, Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, and Ventura, selected Ascencion and highlighted her exceptional leadership and dedication to the Ventura County community. The annual award is presented in recognition of outstanding contributions by women leaders as part of the California Legislative Women’s Caucus’ Women’s History Month commemorations.
Premiere Party: Anne Ward’s “Painted Seasons”
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?Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM members, $10 Non-members
Don’t miss the much-awaited premiere of Ojai artist Anne Ward’s “Painted Seasons” on Saturday, March 15! Ward, who grew up in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, is obsessed with light, color, shape, and pattern. It was while working in France as an assistant to the director on the film “French Kiss” that Anne realized her love of painting outdoors. Primarily self-taught, Ward has been painting and exhibiting her work for over 30 years. The exhibition features 55 paintings bursting with hope and joy and painted in oil, acrylic, and gouache. The majority of the artworks will be available for purchase.
“Painted Seasons” will be on view from
March 15, 2025, to July 6, 2025.
“California’s Coastal Imaginary: Management of Our Coast in Three Acts” – a class tracking the evolving image of Southern California through the years – is one of the offerings for CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Spring II session, which runs from March 24 to May 2.
THOUSAND OAKS — Dianne McKay, president of Mustang Marketing — a full-service strategic marketing agency in Ventura County — was honored as District 42 Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin’s Woman of the Year on March 11 at a ceremony in Sacramento.
A thrice-elected trustee for the Ventura County Community College District, McKay is a highly regarded leader in Ventura County — often called upon to consult on crisis communications; build, strengthen or repair community and government relations on behalf of clients; and to provide her expertise on panels ranging from business to marketing to leadership.
VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announces the approval of two loans for a combined $6,726,038 to create 118 new affordable housing units in Ventura County with two new developments, the Casa Aliento Apartments and Camino De Salud. Community Development Partners will be the recipient of a $1,726,038 bridge loan for 69 affordable units located in Central Oxnard called Casa Aliento Apartments.
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce honored Celesta M. Billeci with their Visionary Arts Leadership Award on Friday, February 21, as part of the Regional Business Awards Gala. Hundreds of local leaders gathered at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort for the annual event, which honors the outstanding achievements of individuals and businesses that continue to make a significant impact in the local community. The Chamber recognized nine honorees for their outstanding contributions to the region’s business community, including seven organizations and two individuals.
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) returns with another exciting free community event. Enjoy three free exhilarating performances from female salsa sextet, Las Gauracheras.
Las Guaracheras
THREE FREE PUBLIC PERFORMANCES
Friday, March 14 | 7 PM | Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd, Goleta
Saturday, March 15 | 7 PM | Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St, Guadalupe, CA
Sunday, March 16 | 6 PM | The Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E Cota St, Santa Barbara
Las Guaracheras, originally from the Colombian city of Cali, embrace improvisation as an unpredictable musical tool, weaving it into the fabric of each song. This improvisational approach, inspired by Latin jazz, is woven throughout their performances, offering each instrument a chance to shine.
The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize Women’s History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of women throughout history. During this time and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting women in achieving their business goals.
The EDC is proud to support the community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:
Woodsome joined Ricker Pfau’s litigation department in 2017. She has been a partner with the firm since 2021 and became a member of the firm’s Management Committee in 2023. Woodsome practices in both state and federal court. Her areas of expertise include contract, M&A, and other business disputes.
Reznick has worked as a financial advisor for over 17 years. She launched Sherfina Advisors in 2024. In addition to the CEPA credential, Reznick is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®), and a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPCTM). She holds a B.A. in Economics from the University of California, Irvine.
With a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and a match from the County of Ventura, the Ventura County Arts Council’s Supporting & Sustaining Arts and Culture (SSAC) program will offer eight grants of up to $10,000 to small, 501(c)(3) arts organizations in Ventura County that demonstrate a commitment to working in underserved and under-resourced communities and neighborhoods
CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (on March 4) announced the appointment of Marlen Torres as its Chief Member Experience and External Affairs Officer. In this key role, Ms. Torres serves as the leader and visionary for member satisfaction and engagement, with the goal of ensuring the best health outcomes, greatest access, and superior member experience for GCHP members.
“Marlen’s leadership and vision for enhancing the member experience and her ability to forge meaningful external partnerships make her the ideal choice for this critical role,” said Dr. Felix Nuñez, GCHP’s acting chief executive officer (CEO). “Her years of experience in public policy and community engagement here in Ventura County will be instrumental as we continue to connect our members with high-quality care.”
SANTA BARBARA — The International Women’s Day March, Dance Party will be held from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 8 at De La Guerra Plaza, Santa Barbara.
Celebrate your Power!
Protest for your Rights!
Dance up State Street!
Presented by World Dance for Humanity, Santa Barbara Women’s March, Indivisible Santa Barbara, UCSB Women’s Center and the SB Women’s Political Committee.
View this email online The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, March 11, 2025 Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building Board Hearing Room 511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria The public may participate…
Tune your radio to AM 530 in the central and northern part of Santa Barbara County for year-round disaster preparedness and emergency information.
… Every once in a while, I forget and begin to feel small in the face of the challenges ahead. But our VCCF family, time and again, shows up and reminds me of the incredible power we have when we act with love and purpose—together.
Bike highways offer an important alternative to residents seeking relief from rising gas prices and those working to lower their carbon footprint. In June 2022, Caltrans released a Bay Area Bike Highway Study that identifies feasible opportunities to add these corridors and incorporates best practices most suitable for the region.
Have you ever wondered what 1920s fire engines looked like? Or what kind of festivities made up a parade in the year 1900? Discover interesting histories of Ventura County through MVC’s digitized archives—browse thousands of photographs, documents, and oral histories.
Visit the Digital Archives HERE.
SANTA BARBARA — It’s not just adults who are impacted by grief and loss in our community. Children are as well. One in five children will experience the death of someone close to them by age 18, and one in twenty children will experience the death of one or both parents before reaching adulthood. Although death and grief are inevitable parts of life, these statistics highlight just how many children are impacted. Children are especially vulnerable when they lose a close loved one, and without professional support, grief can be especially paralyzing and overwhelming.
This session is specifically designed for businesses located along Harvard Blvd., but all Santa Paula businesses are welcome to attend. The feedback gathered during this discussion will be presented to the City Council as they consider updates to the Santa Paula Strategic Plan, which outlines the City’s vision and goals for the next two years, guiding decisions on economic development, infrastructure improvements, public safety, and community programs.
Jonathan Royas. “By expanding bike and pedestrian access, we’re not only creating a healthier, more connected city, but also ensuring safer, more accessible routes for everyone. We look forward to community input as we shape this project together.”
Recipients of the Women United Education Award are single mothers who are completing their associate degree and transferring to a four-year university or technical program and have children under the age of eighteen living in the home. This financial award may be used to offset any costs associated with efforts to attain higher education, including tuition, books, childcare, and transportation.
Since the turn of the century, we have seen major advancements towards the inclusion of disabled people in public society. However, the remnants of overlooking this underrepresented demographic continues to affect all visitors of our parks. Thus, a dedicated advisory body to support the Director of California State Parks in enhancing accessibility for the state’s lands can be helpful in remedying the systemic issue.
“The Cultural Funding Grant Program plays a vital role in fostering our arts community, expanding cultural access, and supporting economic growth,” said Recreation Manager Rebecca Ellis. “We encourage Ventura-based nonprofit cultural and arts organizations to apply for this funding opportunity.”
Throughout the month of March 2025, visitors can immerse themselves in a whimsical, water-inspired world featuring live entertainment, ocean-themed treats, and exclusive seaside shopping specials. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Ventura Harbor coastline, this annual event invites mermaid enthusiasts, pirates, and ocean lovers alike to dive into a sea of unforgettable experiences.
Bert M. and Mildred O. Dahl Fund – Open Now
Grants from the Bert M. and Mildred O. Dahl Fund are to be used in Ventura County for general charitable purposes to benefit the youth of Oak View, California. Nonprofit organizations must be establishing or assisting programs for the youth of Oak View. This may include the construction and maintenance of facilities for such programs.
Barbara Barnard Smith Fund for World Musics – Open Now
Grants from the Barbara Barnard Smith Fund for World Musics are to support live performances or programs representing non-Western musics.
MOORPARK — The Moorpark College Theatre Arts and Film, Television, and Media Arts programs recently hosted their annual advisory board meeting, where industry professionals and college faculty collaborate to ensure programs align with industry and workforce needs. During the meeting, faculty member and professional costumer Haleh Risdana proudly highlighted the industry successes and recognitions of several outstanding students: Marina Wagner, Evelyn Rogers, Rhiann Olshane, Kristen Fernandez, and Noa Walker.
OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services is seeking nominations for the 35th annual El Concilio’s Latino Leadership Awards, to be presented in September 2025.
These awards honor outstanding Latino leaders who have made significant contributions to their communities. Join us in recognizing excellence and inspiring leadership.
Nominate by May 15, 2025.
Dear Friends,
The federal funding freeze is impacting nonprofits across the country, and while we thought SBCFAN would be spared—since we don’t receive federal funds—we are now feeling the ripple effects. Many funding institutions have redirected their support to organizations that lost federal funding, leaving gaps for others–including us.
We cannot afford to slow down. We are at a pivotal moment, with ready to launch projects that will create jobs, generate income, and reinvest in our local food economy:
Thank you for staying up-to-date on news at the County of Ventura! Want to sign up for our newsletter?
Community members who are not already subscribed may sign up to receive our newsletter in English here and in Spanish here.
VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) welcomed a full room of community leaders to its Annual Meeting on February 27th at the Westview II Community Room in Ventura. The event highlighted key milestones, including a $58 million pipeline to fund affordable housing and $44.2 million raised since 2013, resulting in 1,780 affordable apartments and homes committed, funded, and produced throughout Ventura County. Attendees had the opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions regarding Housing Trust Fund VC’s products and services while gaining insights into the organization’s impact.
The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, March 4, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.
This year’s Black History Month has once again provided many opportunities to pause, reflect and learn more about the incomparable contributions made by African Americans in all spheres of life. And as it pertains to housing, while many will be aware of the ‘GI Bill’, perhaps not so many will be aware of its stark inequities which continue to have profound effects on the lack of intergenerational wealth building through homeownership.
For veterans coming home after brave and honorable service in World War II, The Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 – better known as the GI Bill – was envisioned as a pathway back and up into society for the millions returning to civilian life. One of the best-known components of that leveling up legislation was access to low interest financing. But for 1.3M African American heroes, the promise of homeownership was a dream denied with less than 1% successfully securing those life changing down payments and mortgages.
Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM members, $10 Non-members
The Santa Paula Art Museum will mark the start of spring with the premiere of “Painted Seasons,” a stunning solo exhibition by Ojai artist Anne Ward. Ward, who grew up in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, is obsessed with light, color, and pattern. It was while working in France as assistant to the director on the film “French Kiss” that Anne realized her love of painting outdoors. Primarily self-taught, Ward has been painting and exhibiting her work for over 30 years.
The upcoming exhibit features over 50 paintings teeming with life and joy and painted in oil, acrylic, and gouache. The majority of the artworks will be available for purchase. “Painted Seasons” will be on view from March 15, 2025, to July 6, 2025.
We have experienced devastating fires in the last seven years and this bill aims to address the issues we have seen in water delivery,” stated 1st District Supervisor Matt LaVere. ““Supporting AB 367 is a critical step toward ensuring our community has the resources needed to fight fires even in the most challenging circumstances.”
