Category: Youth

Bilingual report — August News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • August 21, 2023 • Comments Off

This month we’ve been looking back, and looking ahead, and celebrating all that’s brought us to the milestone of serving our communities for 53 years. Much has changed, and much has been accomplished since three local volunteers came together around a common mission to serve their community, and eventually form our organization to carry it out and magnify. What’s not changed is the need for creating many more affordable housing opportunities, and coming alongside those among us who are struggling to meet basic needs, in support of our community’s most vulnerable.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department and School District Collaborate to Expand Youth Sports Access

by Community Contributor • August 21, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department and the Santa Paula Unified School District are proud to announce a transformative partnership focused on increasing access to youth sports in the community. This collaboration aims to overcome barriers and provide a comprehensive range of sports opportunities for students in 3rd to 8th grade.

Recognizing the importance of youth sports in fostering physical activity, teamwork, and personal growth, the Parks & Recreation Department and the School District have come together to develop a program that addresses existing challenges. The goal is to ensure that all interested youth have the chance to participate, regardless of financial constraints or logistical hurdles.

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Help Housing selects Joanna Dominguez as Director of Resource Development

by Community Contributor • August 21, 2023 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Joanna Dominguez has been selected to serve as the new Director of Resource Development for People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH).

Originally joining PSHH in 2018, Joanna previously served as the Director of Education. Her then role included the oversight of the organization’s ten learning centers as well as the leadership of the award-winning CELEBRE program for Latinas entering higher education. During that time, Joanna was also actively involved in donor relations, gift stewardship, and grant writing.

Following a brief time away from PSHH, Joanna has now returned as the new Director of Resource Development and will play a key role in expanding fundraising and grant acquisition efforts. Her focus will be on seeking funding for services which support the organization’s over 5,000 residents.

“We are grateful to see Joanna return to PSHH in this vital position” Chief Operating Officer Anna Miller said “Joanna is compassionate, enthusiastic, and has a proven track record for collaboration and results. She has a well-rounded background, giving her the essential skills to take on this new role.

Santa Paula Police Explorers Excel in Regional Tactical Competition

by Community Contributor • August 18, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — Law Enforcement Explorers from Santa Paula Police Department Post 2350 participated in the “Channel Islands Challenge” regional competition in Oxnard August 11-13, 2023. Seven Santa Paula Police Explorers participated and competed with other explorer posts in a three-day competition. The young men and women from Santa Paula were successful with a first place, second place, and four (4) third place awards.

The competition, hosted by the Oxnard Police Explorers, included explorer posts from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Oxnard Police Department, Riverside Police Department, Santa Monica Police Department, Simi Valley Police Department, Torrance Police Department, Santa Maria Police Department, and California Highway Patrol.

CSUCI receives national honor for helping Latinos

by Community Contributor • August 16, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — An innovative CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) program has received a national honor for enabling Latino students to quickly get back on track to graduate after experiencing academic challenges.

Excelencia in Education named the CSUCI Initiative for Mapping Academic Success (CIMAS) a “Program to Watch” for 2023 on Aug. 15.

“We are impressed with the impact your program has had thus far on Latino students and recognize the potential of your program to grow in practice and in evidence of effectiveness,” wrote Erin McCowey, institutional practices manager for Excelencia in Education.

Originally started for Sociology students in 2017 and paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, the program was relaunched universitywide in 2022 to address learning-loss and decreased engagement and sense of belonging caused by the pandemic.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Dogs can detect COVID-19 infections faster and more accurately than conventional technology’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • August 16, 2023 • Comments Off

The idea has gained scientific consensus: Dogs can be just as good — and sometimes better — than our best tests at detecting the stealthy virus and its variants, even when they are obscured by other viruses, like colds and flu.

One805 Live! Launches Exclusive Online Auction in Lead Up to Concert EventOne805 Live! Launches Exclusive Online Auction in Lead Up to Sept. 22 Maroon 5 Live Concert Event

by Community Contributor • August 16, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — As part of Maroon 5 One805 Live! Concert happening September 22nd, 2023, One805 has launched an exclusive online auction ideal for music and rock and roll enthusiasts as well as unique “experiences” for a lucky few!

All proceeds raised through the concert and auction go to essential equipment needs for first responders, as well providing crucial counseling services for every firefighter in Santa Barbara County.

Santa Paula Art Museum — New Classes (15) at SPAM’s Cole Creativity Center

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2023 • Comments Off

Santa Paula Art Museum Curator of Creativity Gabriel Islas has curated an all-new lineup of classes to experience at the Cole Creativity Center in September! We are excited to welcome you into our new ceramics studio with Wheel Throwing and Hand Building clay courses for all levels. With the kids going back to school, we’re also introducing our new After School: Art and After School: Ceramics programs. Islas himself will be teaching the new Intro to Oil Painting course for total beginners, while the 21-and-over crowd can enjoy Art After Dark, and so much more!

Check out all of our September classes below. All supplies are provided in every class, and preregistration is required.

CSUCI learns about the need for diversity in agricultural careers with a fellowship in Washington D.C.

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the world of agriculture in general need workers, and not always in a field of crops or livestock. Workers are needed in scores of other areas outside of the farm, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture itself.

“You don’t have to be a scientist or a farmer,” said CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Assistant Vice President for Student Academic Success & Equity Initiatives Michelle Hasendonckx. “The USDA needs people with experience in human resources, communication specialists, accountants, project managers—people from a wide variety of disciplines and backgrounds make up this huge department. And these are career opportunities nationwide.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘An art museum with a defining collection of Southern California architecture & design’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • August 9, 2023 • Comments Off

The jewels in the crown of the collection held by the Art, Design & Architecture Museum — plucked from the coastal forests and deserts of California Modernism — are its nearly 290 archives of architects, landscape architects and industrial and graphic designers practicing in Southern California.

Call for Artist Services — County of Ventura Creative Corps Grant

by Community Contributor • August 8, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura’s Office of Arts and Culture and Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion have been awarded the Central Coast Creative Corps grant, which will provide $100,000 for the County to contract with an artist for the period of one year. The County and selected artist will work collaboratively to develop an art-based project, or projects, during the grant term.

The County has issued a General Call for Artist Services via a request for proposals (RFP), which is the first step in selecting the artist. The RFP can be viewed here: County of Ventura – RFP 6148 – General Call for Artist Services (bonfirehub.com).

New SBCC Superintendent/President Dr. Erika Endrijonas begins tenure

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Tuesday, Aug. 1, marked Dr. Erika Endrijonas’ first day as the new superintendent/president of Santa Barbara City College.

Dr. Endrijonas’ new role as superintendent/president marks her return to SBCC; She served as the Dean of Career and Technical Services from 2000 to 2009, where she oversaw 28 departments spread across the Business, Technology, and Health and Human Services divisions on campus, along with the School of Culinary Arts and the Kinko’s Early Learning Center. Since then her college leadership roles have included Executive Vice President of Oxnard College, President of Los Angeles Valley College, and most recently, Superintendent/President of Pasadena City College since January 2019.

CSUCI partners with Women’s Economic Ventures to award 45 microgrants to historically marginalized entrepreneurs

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Some entrepreneurs had been working in somebody else’s landscaping business or hair salon and wanted to strike out on their own. Others had been providing child day care and wanted to expand their services. And some had creative ideas for restaurants, food trucks or themed mobile tea parties for kids.

These were some of the 45 business plans chosen for $7,500 microgrants through Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Emprendimiento Program, a program developed to provide training and access to funding for Hispanic entrepreneurs who have limited English proficiency. The program is run in partnership with CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI).

“Some of these entrepreneurs don’t have a high school degree, so it’s a beautiful thing to help them become a part of the formal economy, whereas they might have never gotten a loan from a bank,” said Associate Professor of Business Maria Ballesteros-Sola, who coordinates the program at CSUCI. “With this program, not only can you get started with your own business, but you also have a mentor you can call.”

Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Announces its 2023-2024 Season featuring Prominent Musical and Dance Performers

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) returns with a fantastic lineup for its 2023-2024 season. The season features five impressive performers including Grammy nominee Perla Batalla, the nationally distinguished Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles, America’s first all-female mariachi Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles, music innovator Quitapenas, and dynamic Bordeño-soul group Jarabe Mexicano.

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — Juguetones (5, 8, 12 de agosto), Entre Pancho Villa y una Mujer Desnuda (11 y 12 de agosto)

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2023 • Comments Off

Teatro de las Américas presenta para la familia un espectáculo lleno de humor, títeres, payasos, magia, y misterio.

Escrito por el grupo cómico del Teatro de las Américas con: James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Albert Smith, Mateo Escobedo y Óscar Marrón. Dirigido por James Donlon.

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Teatro de las Américas presents a show full of humor, puppets, clowns, magic, and mystery for the family.

Written by the comedy group of the Theater of the Americas with: James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Albert Smith, Mateo Escobedo and Oscar Brown. Directed by James Donlon.

American Indian Health & Services in Santa Barbara Celebrates National Health Center Week (NHCW) August 6th-August 12

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — American Indian Health & Services (AIH&S), at 3227 State St. Santa Barbara, will be celebrating National Health Center Week (NHCW) with other community clinics across the country.

Health centers provide preventive and primary care services to over 30 million people and are the first to respond with wrap around care during disasters and health emergencies. Community Health Centers lower health care costs to the tune of $24 billion a year reducing the rate of chronic diseases and stimulating local economies.

For nearly 30 years, American Indian Health & Services has been serving the Central-Coast’s healthcare needs. At AIH&S we provide medical, dental, optometric, behavioral health, and community cultural services to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and members of the community.

Bilingual report — SING! 2023 fall registration now open/comienza el registro

by Community Contributor • August 2, 2023 • Comments Off

No experience required! Free of charge
Sing! is designed to empower young people, from 1st to 6th grade, to communicate with confidence, empathize with others, and encourage creative thinking. Sing! will help children learn about their own personal history through music and provide an opportunity to connect with others through the joy of singing.

Registration opens Aug. 7 for CSU Channel Islands’ OLLI-Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Fall Session I classes

by Community Contributor • August 2, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The season is changing, and we look to new opportunities. OLLI-Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at California State University Channel Island is offering ten new classes in Ventura County.

Fall Session I is your opportunity to explore the Dawn of the easiest humans. Examine fossil evidence of early members of humans dating from 2.8 million years ago to 300 thousand years ago.

Edgar Allen Poe dreamt dreams that no mortal even dreamt to dream before. Learn more in our class on his life and writings.

Be an armchair traveler to Australia in our class “the Land Down Under” and learn about the history, geography and culture of this far-off land.

Learn how a rush for glory and riches brought Europeans to Afric

Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s “Find My Genius” Inspires 600 Young Scholars This Summer

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2023 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s Find My Genius program, wrapped up its five-week summer session last week. The program is designed to reduce the achievement gap that often occurs over summer break.

Almost 600 elementary school scholars took part, the highest number ever enrolled in the program. Find My Genius was held at schools in the Las Virgenes, Moorpark and Simi Valley Unified School Districts.

WVCBA awards prestigious Oxnard Trophy to Oxnard College’s 2022 Men’s Soccer State Champions

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA) has announced Oxnard College’s 2022 Men’s Soccer State Championship team as winner of the prestigious Oxnard Trophy. The trophy will be presented at the 73rd annual Oxnard Community & Business Awards on Thursday, August 17, at 11:30 am at Heritage Square.

The team won the California Community College Athletic Association men’s soccer championship in December 2022, its second time in seven years. They completed the season with a 22-1-1 record and were undefeated in conference. In addition, player Odin Rosten and head coach Ross Greaney received National Player and Coaching Staff of the Year awards, respectively, at the United Soccer Coaches national convention in January.

Since 1963, the Oxnard Trophy has been presented to a person, business or organization that has brought recognition to Oxnard and bettered the community. The winner is selected by WVCBA’s Executive Committee of the Board of Directors.

CSUCI anthropologist unearths the sprawling tale of Rancho Guadalasca

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — After the 2013 Springs Fire stripped the foliage from the hillsides around CSU Channel Islands(CSUCI), Professor of Anthropology Colleen Delaney and six of her students unearthed something mysterious as they began excavating the area. Remnants of Camarillo State Hospital—which occupied the area from 1933 to 1997—were common, but this looked different.

Historic photo courtesy of Terrance Tally, Joseph Lewis’ great-grandson.
“We found an unusual structure that was made out of volcanic rock and concrete,” Delaney said. “It did not match any of the hospital buildings, so we hoped it dated back even further. Based on some faculty/student research we conducted, it looked like a 1950s work building that didn’t match any of the hospital buildings.”

That unusual find launched Delaney on the trail of the mysterious structure, which she learned was part of a historic ranch named Rancho Guadalasca. She then wrote a book released in May entitled “Rancho Guadalasca: Last Ranch of California’s Central Coast,” by The History Press.

Santa Paula City Council Allocates Funding for Spirit of Santa Paula Harvard Shelter in Collaboration with the County Board of Supervisors and the City of Fillmore

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors on July 25 voted to approve $1.62 million in funding over the next two years to support efforts to provide housing for homeless individuals in the Santa Clara Valley – serving individuals experiencing homelessness in the cities of Santa Paula, Fillmore, and the unincorporated area of Piru. The funding from the County will match funding provided by the City of Santa Paula and City of Fillmore.

In tandem, the Santa Paula City Council held a special meeting on July 19 to approve an agreement that will contribute $24,000 per month for two years to support the operations of the nonprofit Spirit of Santa Paula Harvard Shelter for the unhoused. The shelter, located at 1498 E. Harvard Blvd., has been providing essential services to 49 individuals, including 19 children, in need of assistance.

VCCU awards inaugural First in Family scholarship to CSUCI first-generation student

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Credit Union is proud to announce it has awarded its inaugural First in Family Scholarship to Rayleen Meza, a Santa Paula High School senior who will be attending California State University Channel Islands as a nursing major in the fall, making her the first person in her family to pursue a college education. The scholarship, which is worth $24,000 distributed over four years, will help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies and other expenses.

Museum of Ventura County — Proximity to Water Exhibit – Join us for Thirsty Thursday!

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2023 • Comments Off

Proximity to Water: Works from MVC’s Permanent Collection

Just in time for summer, come be inspired by the ever-changing coast captured by our regional artists.

From plein air painting to photography, the mutable coast provides an endless supply of inspiration. Art helps us admire, respect, and revere our region, reminding us of our own place in the natural world. Proximity means a closeness in space, time, or relationship. These artworks from the Museum’s permanent collection bring us closer to the water, both visually and in feeling.

This exhibit is made possible by the Esther and Thomas Wachtell Family Fund, the Paul and Anne Leavens Family Fund and the Bonita McFarland Fund

Find family fun all summer long at The Collection

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Summer is in full swing at The Collection at Riverpark with free family-friendly concerts, our weekly Kids Club and a show featuring animal expert Corbin Maxey and his collection of reptile friends. For the sports lovers in your family, The Collection is also hosting an Oxnard Fan Night with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.

July News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2023 • Comments Off

We are in the midst of a Summer of Celebration here at People’s!

Last week saw the Grand Opening of Templeton Place II – 36 units of truly permanently affordable housing for seniors and veterans, some of whom have come directly out of homelessness. $17M of investment went in this development, substantial amounts of which were injected straight into the local economy through construction subcontracting, including with a designated Disabled Veteran Enterprise. Though many challenges and obstacles showed up along the way, partnerships with multiple federal and state agencies and stakeholders from around the local community, made it happen!

SBCC Summer Bridge programs offer local teens a jumpstart to college

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA —This summer two of Santa Barbara City College’s innovative programs welcomed local students to experience college-level coursework and gain confidence and motivation to seek higher education in their lives.

The PEAC program is a Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD) initiative that exists to help close the achievement gap and change the trajectory of low-income, first generation college students, while also providing a system of academic and social-emotional support to guarantee students are prepared to enter a college or university. In partnership with SBCC’s Dual Enrollment program and supported by the Foundation for SBCC, students experienced a great opportunity to attend SBCC for a week … earning one unit of college credit even before they enter high school. Students from Goleta Valley, La Cumbre, Santa Barbara and La Colina Junior High schools took a college course in time management along with guided introductions to the Basic Needs Center, Financial Aid, Library, computer labs, EOPS, Center for Equity and Social Justice, Student Health Services, Career Center, Guided Pathways, Automotive, School of Justice Studies and the Cafeteria.

7 Exciting Actitivites For A Memorable Family Adventure in Lompoc

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2023 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Planning a weekend away that caters to the interests and ages of everyone in your family can be a challenge, but have no fear! Lompoc, situated on California’s Central Coast, offers a wealth of fun experiences that will leave the whole family with smiles. Whether your family loves outdoor adventures or educational explorations, join us as we uncover 7 fun things to do in Lompoc that are perfect for families.

Ventura County Office of Education — Binational Summer Program Serves Children of Migrant Farm Workers

by Community Contributor • July 19, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Educational agencies on both sides of the US/Mexico border are teaming up to provide summer learning opportunities for children of migrant farm workers in Ventura County. Students in grades two through six are taking classes in math, English and computer coding at the Bilingual Summer Institute, being held this July at Somis Elementary School. A unique aspect of the program is that two visiting teachers from Mexico are incorporating cultural enrichment into the lessons to help students learn about their heritage and better connect to the material that’s being taught.

Norma Vianey Tizapan Mendoza is a teacher visiting from the Mexican state of Tlaxcala. She uses art, music and stories to help get students engaged. “Most of their parents are from Mexico and they are here because they want better opportunities for their families,” she says. “I’m so proud to be a teacher and to be here. Being a teacher is about touching your students’ heart.”

Bilingual report — Arte & Cultura Collective of Santa Paula Invites All Artists to Mission & Vision Workshop on Aug, 1

by Community Contributor • July 19, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Arte & Cultura Collective of Santa Paula, a vibrant community organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating cultural arts, is excited to announce its upcoming Mission & Vision Workshop. This workshop aims to bring together artists, organizations, and individuals committed to various forms of artistic expression from the local community to collectively shape the future of our cultural arts scene.

The Mission & Vision Workshop will take place on Tuesday, August 1st at the Train Depot located at 200 N. 10th St, Santa Paula, CA 93060 from 4:45PM-7:00PM. Artists, organizations, and individuals of all backgrounds and disciplines are invited to attend and actively participate in this collaborative event.

From California’s Central Coast: From Vine To Glass Discovering The Essence of Santa Rita Hills WinerIes

by Community Contributor • July 18, 2023 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — The enchanting world of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, a picturesque wine region along California’s Central Coast welcomes wine lovers from near and far. Embark on a delightful journey uncovering the trifecta of wine areas that make this region truly special: the Lompoc Wine Ghetto, the Midtown Wineries, and the Sta. Rita Hills Wineries. Diverse, exquisite flavors await as we delve into the thriving wine scene of this unique and esteemed appellation. So, grab a glass and join us as we unravel the vinicultural treasures of Sta. Rita Hills.

Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp Kicks Off Week of Fun

by Community Contributor • July 18, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp will welcome approximately 40 enthusiastic campers at the UCSB Recreation Center. Funding from the Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation allows all campers to attend the week for free.

The annual camp provides sports and recreation skills development for children, youth, and young adults between the ages of 6 to 21 years old who can use a wheelchair to participate in sports and recreation activities. This year more than 50 volunteers will assist the campers.

Board Chair, Vice-Chair And New Board Members Announced By Ventura College Foundation

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — In a June 28 meeting, the Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors selected a new board chair and vice-chair and approved two new board members for the 2023-24 term.

The new foundation board chair is Nicole Kreutz, vice president, senior portfolio manager at Montecito Bank & Trust. She has been on the foundation board for five years and is a Ventura College alumnus. “I am excited to lead the foundation’s efforts to help students at Ventura College thrive and prosper,” says Kreutz. “As a foundation, we remain focused and vigilant on what we do best, providing our students with a way to open doors for the future and provide a bridge to higher education.”

Discover The 5 Best Parks In Lompoc

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2023 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Parks in Lompoc offer a tranquil oasis for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. With the destination’s gentle climate and breathtaking landscapes, the Lompoc Valley boasts a myriad of beautiful parks. Travelers can explore top parks where they can immerse themselves in the region’s natural wonders and find moments of tranquility.

Arcelia Sención Named Chief Strategy-North County Programs Officer At Family Service Agency/Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2023 • Comments Off

Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County is pleased to welcome the organization’s new Chief Strategy-North County Programs Officer, Arcelia Sención. She will manage operations at FSA’s North County Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center office at 105 N. Lincoln Street.

Arcelia brings over 30 years of nonprofit experience to FSA/SMVYFC improving access to safety-net programs and developing initiatives to address the prevention of childhood trauma and abuse. She served as Associate Director at Standing Together to End Sexual Assault for the past four years and was previously Director of Healthcare and Social Services at Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People.

“We’re so excited to add Arcelia’s to our leadership team,” said CEO Lisa Brabo. “She is a well-respected member of the community who has a clear passion for service and track record of effective leadership. We look forward to working with her to improve the wellbeing of children, families and seniors in our community.”

Angels Foster Care Partners with CWS and Local Foundations to Launch New Kinship Care Program

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Angels Foster Care on July 13 announced the launch of ‘Family & Friends Together’ (FFT), a new kinship care program that provides intensive, trauma-informed multigenerational support to kinship families caring for foster children from birth to age five in Santa Barbara County.

The local nonprofit – which provides safe, stable, loving homes for infants and toddlers in foster care throughout Santa Barbara County and Southern San Luis Obispo County – partnered with Santa Barbara County Child Welfare Services, the Towbes Foundation, the Bower Foundation, the Hazen Foundation and other private donors to launch and fund the new program.

FFT provides case management, referrals, individualized education, and brief therapeutic intervention to kinship caregivers and the children they are fostering.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Taking Action to Prevent Homelessness

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

This week, the Board of Supervisors adopted an ordinance that strengthens protections for tenants in the unincorporated areas of the County. It is my hope that these protections will make the playing field more level for renters in unincorporated areas during this unprecedented housing crisis and prevent people from losing their homes.

The most important protection we can put in place for renters (and for our planet and climate) is allowing more rental housing close to jobs. Only by our community refusing to build any new rental housing can landlords command such immense power over our lives. Our housing element, which is being worked on now, can help address this.

Santa Paula Art Museum — ‘The California Scene’ Opens Saturday With an Added Surprise!

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

Premiere Party: California Art League’s “The California Scene”

Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members

The Santa Paula Art Museum is the place to be on Saturday, July 15! Join us as we unveil our newest exhibition, “The California Scene,” showcasing 59 quintessential California scenes in a variety of media by 44 artists from the long-established California Art League (CAL). The show is CAL’s 2023 Gold Medal Exhibition and multiple awards will be announced during the premiere party. Mingle with the artists, grab a glass of wine, and find out which artwork is named “Best in Show.”

“The California Scene” will be on view from July 15 to November 5, 2023. Many of the artworks are available for purchase.

Bilingual report — County Board of Supervisors approve Parks Department to enter into dual lease agreement for oversight of Nyeland Acres Park

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, June 27, though unanimous vote, the Board of Supervisors approved the County Parks Department to enter into a dual lease agreement with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Nyeland Acres Promise for management of the John C. Zaragoza Nyeland Acres Community Center and Park. The 2.2-acre park property, which is currently owned by the County of Ventura but under management by the Boys and Girls Club, is not available to the public on a full-time basis. Through the voted-on agreement, the County will now assume all oversight and maintenance for the park area through the County Parks Department, which will allow the neighborhood park to be open from dawn to dusk for the Nyeland Acres community. As well, the buildings will now be jointly operated by the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme and Nyeland Promise.

“This is a very large deal to our community,” stated District 3 Supervisor Kelly Long. “Rolling this park into part of the County’s parks system allows us to take the liability off of the Boys and Girls Club and open it up even more to the community as a whole. It allows us to really develop the park for the community.”

Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation in Santa Barbara awards $27,000 for music education

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit that supports classical music education through scholarships and grants, has awarded $27,000 to local music programs.

The foundation’s Education Grant Committee met in early June to discuss the 2023 disbursement of funds for music education programs. These funds are distributed following the foundation’s annual performing arts competition, in which individual vocal and instrumental students receive scholarships and prizes to support their musical studies. Foundation funds that remain after the competition are used for program grant awards, said President Deborah Bertling.

“The grant process is by invitation and focuses on arts organizations that support and foster the foundation’s mission,” Bertling said. “Our mission is to provide financial assistance to young musicians studying classical performing arts and to support music education in our community.”

Tony Morris Continues Reign as Rotary Club of Montecito’s President

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

MONTICITO — Tony Morris is beginning his second year of a two-year term as president of Montecito Rotary Club as the service organization marks a milestone.

This year, the club celebrates its 70th anniversary developing projects and delivering service to the Montecito community while creating lasting friendships and having some fun along the way.

Morris says he loves the area and its people, and is excited to do what he can to make it an even better place through his role in Rotary. He believes that working in service together we can make our world a better place.

SEEAG and Gills Onions’ 4th Annual Double Your Impact Challenge Nets Over $30,000 For Youth Wellness Initiatives

by Amigos805.com • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — For the fourth year, Gills Onions matched up to $15,000 in donations made to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG)during SEEAG’s annual “Double Your Impact Challenge.” Fundraising efforts during the May campaign raised $15,179 with all proceeds going…

Ventura County Department of Child Support Services announces launch of Empowering Fathers Series to promote active parenting and family well-being

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS), a leading advocate for family well-being, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Empowering Fathers series this August as part of its Child Support Awareness Month Campaign. Committed to its core principle of helping families thrive, The Department of Child Support Services recognizes the instrumental role fathers play in the development and future success of their children. With this in mind, the department has curated a series of presentations that aim to empower fathers with the knowledge, support, and resources needed to overcome obstacles that may hinder their involvement in their children’s lives.

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC) July Fellowship Update

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

As the 2022-2023 Social Justice Fellowship cycle comes to an end, there is much to reflect on and celebrate! We are proud to highlight that the SJFVC is a first funder, helping new leaders who have never received funding before. In the summary below, you will notice that a majority of our Fellows are now receiving more funding and support from foundations and other sources. This is a great sign that our training and coaching is helping to launch them as new voices for justice.

Museum of Ventura County — True Crime Exhibit: Establish Your Alibi at the MVC

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

The Murder of Tom More:
A True Crime Story

In the early hours of March 24th 1877, a mob of angry settlers set fire to Thomas More’s barn and shot him at least 10 times. Motivated by a passionate battle over land ownership and water rights turned deadly, news of his murder rippled through California.

Amid the rubble of lies, perjuries, briberies, and omissions in the historical record, there are puzzles regarding his death that remain forever unsolved. His story stands today as a warning about the strong emotions unleashed over limited natural resources.

This exhibit is made possible by
the John Hammer Family

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County goes BIG at BBBS of America’s National Conference!

by Community Contributor • July 10, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is thrilled to announce that it is a recipient of the Pinnacle Award for 2022 – a designation given by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America to network agencies who demonstrate exemplary programmatic success and fiscal responsibility. BBSVC was one of only eight agencies across the United States selected to receive the award and accept it on the BBBS of America National Conference main stage on June 29th in Anaheim.

United Way of Ventura County launches 2023 Stuff The Bus Campaign

by Community Contributor • July 7, 2023 • Comments Off

Help stuff backpacks with essential school supplies for local at-risk 3rd-5th grade students. Backpacks are being distributed in partnership with the Ventura County Office of Education to children identified as homeless by their respective school district.

You can help pave the path to academic success for a child from a family experiencing homelessness. Furthermore, your support not only provides essential school supplies. Studies show that it also promotes learning, building self-esteem, and helps ensure that our youth stay in school.

Please help fill the backpacks by supporting our online Roonga school supply campaign which runs until July 13th. Please share this link with friends, family members, and co-workers. Also, below is a QR code that leads to the online drive.

The Little House By The Park Receives $140k Grant From Central Coast Creative Corps For Artist Led Outreach Initiatives

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County (FSA) announced that its family resource center in Guadalupe, The Little House by the Park (LHP), has been selected receive a $140,000 grant as part of the Central Coast Creative Corps (CCCC) Program, a pilot grant program funded by the California Arts Council.

The grant award will fund LHP to work with a Central Coast-based artist for one year. The artist will work in collaboration with a parent-led advocacy group known as the Guadalupe Community Changers, a parent-led organization that supports the development of community projects, encourages other parents to be more engaged in their children’s education, and offers leadership opportunities to increase civic participation.

“This opportunity will strengthen our organization’s outreach and advocacy efforts by increasing our program’s visibility and by expanding our community engagement work,” said Samuel Duarte, Community Engagement/Leadership Development Manager. “Integrating culturally relevant art into the Community Changer’s campaigns and projects, can increase participation and discussion among the underrepresented members of our community.”

Bank of Americans announces County Student Leaders

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2023 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Bank of America on July 3 announced four local high school juniors and seniors from Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties have been selected as Student Leaders® (#BofAStudentLeaders), where they will participate in an eight-week paid summer internship providing the students with first-hand experience in serving their communities. As part of the program, the students will develop leadership and practical workforce skills while working with local nonprofits Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast and Habitat for Humanity San Luis Obispo County, all while earning $17 per hour.

“With changing economic environments and a shifting job market in the region, young people need access to workforce experience and career skills-building opportunities,” said Midge Campbell-Thomas, president, Bank of America Ventura and Santa Barbara. “The private sector has a role to play to help better position and support young adults to be successful in today’s workforce.”

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