Category: Youth

Ventura County Community Foundation Accepting Emergency Donations for Mountain Fire

Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,

We extend our deepest gratitude to our first responders, the County of Ventura, local municipalities, the State of California, and our dedicated elected officials who have been working tirelessly to support and advocate for our community during the challenges posed by the Mountain Fire. We are acutely aware of the pain our neighbors are experiencing—those who have lost their homes and those whose livelihoods are at risk.

We also recognize and commend the many nonprofits that have stepped forward to assist those most in need, including our cherished animals, both large and small, and childcare providers

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Mountain Fire update of Nov. 8

The impact of the Mountain Fire on our community has been truly heartbreaking. My heart goes out to everyone affected. As I toured the impacted neighborhoods, I witnessed firsthand the immense loss and devastation that has struck District 2.

I also spent time at the evacuation center today, and in the midst of this tragedy, I was reminded of the extraordinary resilience of our community. We have faced challenges before, and each time, we’ve come together, emerging stronger and more united.

Now, more than ever, many of our neighbors need our support. Below, I’ve included resources for those affected and ways to help if you feel moved to lend a hand. I am deeply grateful to the many first responders, county departments, partner agencies, community groups, and individuals who have shown up to assist in incredible ways during this difficult time. Your generosity and dedication have been a light in the darkness.

Santa Paula Museum of Art announces Joanne Julian’s ‘Nature’s Spirits now open

Ever inspired by nature, artist Joanne Julian’s solo exhibition, “Nature’s Spirits,” is a meditation on nature’s miracles, from birds, insects, and botanicals found in the garden to clouds, stars, and nebulae witnessed in the night sky.

Bilingual report — Registration now open for Winter, Spring classes at Allan Hancock College

“We want our students to know that everyone at Hancock is invested in helping them reach their educational goals this winter and spring,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We are encouraging them to register for classes now and take advantage of all the resources and support services that Hancock offers.” 

United for Progress: LULAC Vision for a Stronger Latino Future

As the oldest Latino civil rights organization in the nation, LULAC stands firmly committed to uplifting and empowering the Latino community across America—working to strengthen economic and educational opportunities and to protect our civil rights.

For nearly a century, LULAC has been here, side by side with the communities we serve, tirelessly working toward a future that fulfills the dreams of our families and honors the sacrifices of those who came before us. Now, as we look to the horizon, we welcome the opportunity to work with President Donald J. Trump, Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, all of last night’s elected officials, and the incoming Administration. Together, we are called to build a future that holds space for all our stories, our voices, and our dreams.

Ventura Music Festival November News — Dear Music Lover! Look at what you’ve helped us achieve!

A Note of Thanks from our Executive Director

As we welcome November and embrace the shift toward shorter days (and change in general) there’s also something reflective and revitalizing in the air as we approach Thanksgiving season.

As I choose to focus on gratitude and hope, I’d like to start by thanking our long time VMF’s supporters and sponsors, the VMF Board of Directors, and sister organizations with whom we have forged new and renewed collaborations. In 2024 so far we have received funding from VCCF, the City and County of Ventura’s Arts & culture divisions who have supported VMF with generous grants to augment our music and educational offerings for the entire Community. To them we extend a deep gratitude for spending our tax dollars wisely to enrich our culture in so many ways.

Ventura County Community Foundation Community Update on Mountain Fire — Pacific Coast Business Times’ Emergency Preparedness Guide in English, Spanish

Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,

Our hearts are with all those who have been impacted by the Mountain Fire. We are working closely with our partners to help ensure that your community foundation is doing all it can to support those most impacted. As the situation continues to develop, we will be in touch with you to keep you informed of how we can all best help.

Santa Barbara City College thanks community for passing Measure P and welcomes new Trustee-elects

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) and the Santa Barbara City College Foundation express heartfelt gratitude to the Santa Barbara community, Yes on Measure P campaign, and their volunteers for the passage of Measure P, a vital bond extension that will enable the college to enhance facilities, update technology, and continue offering a high-quality educational experience. This bond extension reflects the community’s commitment to SBCC’s mission of empowering students through affordable, accessible, and innovative education.

CSUCI Cancels Classes Nov. 7 & 8 due to impact of Mountain Fire

CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands has announced that the campus remains safe but due to severe disruptions from the Mountain Fire and significant impacts on several members of the campus community, classes have been canceled for Thursday and Friday, Nov. 7 and 8.

Monday, Nov. 11 is a campus holiday in observance of Veterans Day and classes and full campus operations will resume on Tuesday, Nov. 12.

Updates will continue to be provided on the campus website at www.csuci.edu or by calling the information hotline at 805-437-3911.

UPDATED: School Closures in Ventura County Due to Mountain Fire

The below list has been updated with additional closures since our prior email. Please refer the public to www.vcoe.org for a list of Ventura County school closures that will be continuously updated throughout the duration of this emergency.

VENTURA COUNTY — Due to impacts from the Mountain Fire, the following Ventura County schools and districts have announced closures for Thursday, November 7 and Friday, November 8, 2024.

Bilingual report — Air Quality Alert issued for Ventura County

VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions exist.

Smoke from the Mountain Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Oxnard and Camarillo. Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles that can harm the lungs and heart.

The district issues Air Quality Alerts when the AQI has reached or is forecast to reach an unhealthy level for all. A lower AQI can affect sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.

The alert is in effect until conditions improve.

Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! — Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar to Perform Three Free Concerts in Santa Barbara County (Nov. 22-24)

SANTA BARBARA — Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience as Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar takes the stage for three free community performances in Santa Barbara County. The performances are a part of ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva), a program dedicated to celebrating Latin America’s vibrant cultural heritage. 

Port of Hueneme Dock Talk — October Recap

Port of Hueneme “Goes Electric” receiving an impressive $42,287,893 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), funding critical to the Port’s goal of zero emissions by 2030.

Read our latest Press Release on how we plan to invest the $42M EPA grant to step towards our Zero Emission goal!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura names Kimberlee Albers new Homeless Solutions Director

“With significant experience in the public sector as well as the nonprofit sector across several counties, Kimberlee brings a unique perspective and proven leadership to the role of Homeless Solutions Director,” stated Dr. Johnson. “Her commitment to innovative solutions has earned her recognition as a leader in the field, demonstrating her ability to drive impactful change. We are confident that her expertise will pave the way for transformative initiatives that will positively impact inflow and outflow of unhoused individuals and create significant impact on addressing homelessness in our county.” 

Simi Valley Family YMCA Forms New Advisory Board

SIMI VALLEY — The Simi Valley Family YMCA has formed a new all-volunteer advisory board. Andy Dominguez is board chair.

The Simi YMCA is a branch of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. The new board will support the mission and goals of the Simi YMCA and the Southeast Ventura County YMCA and function as ambassadors for both.

“The community of Simi Valley and the Simi Valley Family YMCA have been partners in growth, healthy living and quality experiences for many years,” says Dominguez. “This is an exciting time to be an Advisory Board member as we work towards strengthening and extending that partnership.”

Two New Members Join the Ventura College Foundation Board

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation board approved two new members at its September 18th meeting.

One of the new members is Dustin Tondreau, AVP of the Wealth Management Team at Ocean Air Federal Credit Union in Ventura County which partners with LPL Financial. As foundation treasurer, Tondreau’s role is to provide a fiduciary duty of care in overseeing the foundation’s financials and to bring new strategic partnership opportunities to the board.

Girls Inc.’s Project Accelerate On Track to Meet its Goals to Advance Gender Parity in the Workplace for Girls Across North America

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is proud to announce its participation in Project Accelerate, a transformative initiative launched by the Girls Inc. national organization. This program was made possible by a $10 million grant from the Equality Can’t Wait Challenge, aimed at advancing gender equality by 2030. Project Accelerate seeks to propel 5,400 diverse women into corporate leadership roles across 30 sites nationwide.

Now in its fourth year, Project Accelerate has expanded to 26 Girls Inc. affiliates, reaching approximately 3,700 girls across the country. Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is excited to announce that they are among the newest cohort of affiliates selected for this impactful initiative.

Bilingual commentary — The Future King Who Would Rather Be a Pizza Chef

Whenever we talk with children, including our own, we might find ourselves asking some version of the question, “So, what do you want to be when you grow up?” Sometimes their answers are confident and run the gamut, from astronaut to teacher to police officer to biochemical engineer and everything in between. Others have no idea what they want to pursue, which is perfectly normal and healthy. 

Bilingual report — Guest contribution — Is it Safe for Children to ‘Trick or Treat’ This Halloween?

As children of all ages prepare for and look forward to “trick or treating” this Halloween, many parents are rightfully asking themselves how they can ensure that their little ghosts and goblins will be safe and sound during this upcoming festive holiday.

Dr. Patricia De La Riva, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura Service Area, encourages parents to make lasting memories with their children. However, she notes it’s also important to remember there are important avoidable safety hazards lurking that can result in injury and illness.“A good start is to make sure your children are up to date with their vaccines, such as those that protect against pertussis given the recent rise in cases, and vaccines that help to prevent influenza and Covid-19 infection,” she said. Additionally, Dr. De La Riva addressed several scary health issues parents should be aware of to ensure their little munchkins have a safe and happy Halloween.

Festival Celebrating Early Childhood Education for All A Huge Success

SANTA PAULA — Over 680 children and family members attended the Todos Juntos Por Los Niños Children’s Festival held at Glen City Elementary in Santa Paula on Saturday, Oct. 19. The event hosted by the Isabella Project was designed especially for children ages 0 to 5, creating a joyful space for hundreds of families to connect, play and learn about the vast array of support services available to them.

Ventura Music Festival — What’s on this Halloweekend? Mariachi Camarillo to perform at OPAC on Nov. 2

Mariachi Camarillo
Saturday, Nov 2, 2024 at 6:30 PM
Oxnard Performing Arts Center

We are so proud to be a part of the free Dia de Los Muertos celebration hosted by the Oxnard Performing Arts Center this Saturday! Don’t miss Mariachi Camarillo, brought to you by the Ventura Music Festival, from 6:30 – 8:00pm.
Learn More – OPAC

Ventura County Student Logo Design Contest Winners Announced

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) is pleased to announce the following winners of logo design contests for the 2025 Academic Decathlon, Science Fair, Battle of the Books, and Mock Trial. Approximately 180 entries were submitted by students from throughout Ventura County.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College celebrated grand opening of new Pride Center

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the grand opening of its new Pride Center on October 30. The Pride Center functions as a dedicated, inclusive space for LGBTQ students and allies on the college’s Santa Maria campus.

“As we open the doors of our new Pride Center, we reaffirm our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our goal is to foster a community that not only embraces diversity but actively ensures that every student feels safe and valued.”   

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Laying The Track For New Passenger Trains

Great news! A new project is laying the track for new passenger trains to Santa Barbara County – literally.

$22 million in State grant funding has been awarded to construct the Ortega Siding, which will significantly increase the capacity of the LOSSAN rail corridor – which is the second busiest in the United States.

If you’ve ridden the Pacific Surfliner recently you may have noticed that often trains are held at Seacliff or the Santa Barbara Station. The Ortega siding project will change that, by allowing for bi-directional movement that lets trains pass one another.

Ventura County Community Foundation Power of Purpose – October 2024

One week ago, we came together for the Isabella Project’s first children’s festival: Todos Juntos por Los Niños – Everyone Together for Our Children. What an unforgettable day! Designed especially for children ages 0-5, the event exceeded all expectations, creating a joyful space for hundreds of families to connect, play, and learn about the vast array of support services available to them.

CLU School of Management — Save the Date – 2025 Conference — ‘Affording a Dignified Life on The Central Coast of California: Challenges & Opportunities’

The Center for Economics of Social Issues invites you to save the date for its upcoming conference, which will be held on February 28th at California Lutheran University’s campus. The conference will bring a vast collection of data processed carefully and presented clearly to shed light on the challenges of enjoying a dignified life on the central coast of California. Meaningful human development rests on the ability to live a dignified life.

Take some time for fun at the Museum of Ventura County

Farm Day 2024

Saturday, November 2

10:00 am – 3:00 pm

@Agriculture Museum

926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula

Experience over 15 Ventura County farms, ranches, and agricultural organizations as they open their doors for Ventura County Farm Day! Visit the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula for Master Gardener-led tours, a selfie station, and a stand from the Santa Paula Certified Farmers Market. Plus, don’t miss a special talk at 11:00 a.m. by VC Poet Laureate and Community Activist Luzmaria Espinosa, who will share her experiences as a farmworker.

Farm Day is self-guided — explore the locations on the Farm Day Trail Map at your own pace, and we hope you put us on your map for the day! For more information, click HERE.

October News from People’s Self-Help Housing

It has been an exciting month! We broke ground on Calle Joaquin Apartments in San Luis Obispo and marked the Grand Opening of People’s Place in Santa Paula. To learn more about these properties, visit pshhc.org/rental-pipeline.

Artwork by Oak Park Middle Schooler Selected to Appear in 2025 Metropolitan Water District Calendar

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Artwork by 13-year-old Aarush Mane, an 8th grader at Medea Creek Middle School in Oak Park, was selected by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) to appear in its printed 2025 Water Calendar and digital library.

MWD, which provides water to 19 million people in Southern California, invited students across its service area, including those in the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD), to submit water-themed artwork for the “Being Water Wise Is…” Student Art Calendar Contest earlier this year. This marks the third consecutive year that a student from Oak Park has had their artwork featured in the calendar.

UCSB — The Current — How art opens the mind: Prof. Jonathan Schooler’s research on the cognitive effects of art

In Rome, Schooler will present alongside research colleague Madeline Gross, assistant project scientist. Together, they are investigating how art can induce a state of cognitive openness, allowing viewers to approach the world with greater mental flexibility.

UCSB — The Current — ‘UCSB’s cybersecurity chief on protecting digital spaces and the role of AI’ and more news, events

Jackson Muhirwe, chief information security officer and director of information assurance, is a seasoned higher education leader with over two decades of experience in information technology and security.

People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) — People’s Self-Help Housing Celebrates Grand Opening of New Affordable Housing in Santa Paula

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has opened its newest affordable housing development: People’s Place.

Located at 714-716 West Harvard Boulevard, People’s Place is the first affordable housing community in over 10 years in Santa Paula, and PSHH’s first new construction build in Ventura County. The development is made up of 69 one-, two- and three-bedroom units, serving households earning 30-60% of the area median income (AMI). 21 of these units are set aside for farmworker households making 30-45% of the AMI.

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County unveils Community Lending Library for Mesa

The library will feature books donated by the Ojai Valley Library Friends & Foundation (OVLFF) and join OVLFF’s internationally award-winning Little Free Libraries program which aims to increase access to books and promote literacy across America. The Community Lending Library will be installed at the entrance to Mesa and will be accessible to the public.

Santa Paula Art Museum — Upcoming Fun at the Cole Creativity Center

Artwork by Cole Creativity Center adult students (clockwise from top left) Jessica Haggard, Robin Briceño, Chelsey Hoslett, and Aaron Benner. “The First Annual Cole Creativity Center Art Show” and Supply Shop Launch Party Saturday, October 26, 2024 • 4 PM to…

UCSB — The Current — ‘UC Santa Barbara ranks among top universities nationally and globally in recent assessments’ and more news, events

For affordability, social mobility, research impact, academics and other metrics, the campus is again considered among the nation’s — and the world’s — top universities, according to myriad recent rankings.

Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation in Santa Barbara announces new Junior Vocal Division, releases impact report

SANTA BARBARA — The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit that supports classical music education and career development for Santa Barbara Area students, has added a new Junior Vocal Division to its signature annual competition.

The announcement came during a cocktail party and musical presentation hosted Oct. 4 at the home of PASF board members Noel Lucky and Jeff Ris. Leaders of the organization also unveiled the nonprofit’s latest impact report, which shows that PASF has awaxrded $915,000 in scholarships and grants since 2003 and that its educational grants reach thousands of students annually.

Ventura County NAACP recognizes CSUCI President Richard Yao with community empowerment award

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County NAACP recently presented CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) President Richard Yao with their Community Empowerment Corporate Award in recognition of his commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and more.

Yao accepted the award on behalf of the campus at the local NAACP’s Annual Freedom Fund Award Banquet, held on Oct. 12.

Santa Barbara City College receives provisional approval for Bachelor’s Degree in Health Information Management

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is thrilled to announce that the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office (CCCCO) has granted provisional approval for SBCC’s proposed Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (HIM). This marks a pivotal step in offering an innovative, industry-driven baccalaureate program that prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare.

Ventura Music Festival announces upcoming events

Lark, Roman & Meyer

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

8:00 PM

The Soraya

18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA

Master of the upright bass and five-time GRAMMY® Award-winner Edgar Meyer is joined by two like-minded artists to pluck and bow original contemporary compositions by Meyer paired with Bach favorites.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College receives provisional approval to offer Bachelor’s degree

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College reached a historic milestone with the provisional approval from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office for its Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Applied Professional Studies. Provisional approval means the program has cleared key initial requirements and is one step closer to being finalized.

This milestone represents a significant achievement in the college’s ongoing commitment to providing affordable and accessible higher education to Central Coast students. Hancock could begin offering the four-year degree to students as early as the fall of 2026 if final approval is granted. 

CSUCI to host its first-ever Homecoming Week with parades, pep rallies, comedy and a street fair

“As we celebrate our 22nd year, our first-ever Homecoming signals a milestone in the maturity of our campus,” said Vice President for Advancement Ritchie LeRoy. “With over 26,826 alumni, this moment is about more than just nostalgia—it’s about building on tradition and deepening the connection between our alumni, our mission, and our students.”

Ventura Police Dept. — Bilingual report — National Teen Driver Safety Week: Parents are key to keeping teens safe behind the wheel

VENTURA — National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 20-26 and the Ventura Police Department urges parents and caregivers to talk with their teens about the rules of the road and how safe driving saves lives. 

Car crashes are a leading cause of death for teens aged 15-18 years old in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 2,514 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver in 2022. In California, young drivers were involved in nearly 12% of all fatal crashes in 2022, despite accounting for only 5% of all licensed drivers in the U.S.

Agromin Launches ‘Healthy Soil Heroes’

OXNARD — Agromin, California’s largest organics waste recycler and manufacturer of earth-friendly soil products, has launched its “Healthy Soil Heroes,” ambassador program by partnering with five founding members. The founding members represent a diverse range of agricultural and community-focused businesses, including a native plant nursery, flower farm, community garden, agricultural education ambassadors and an edible garden design company.

“We created Healthy Soil Heroes as a way to recognize businesses and nonprofits that are promoting sustainable gardening, farming and landscaping practices,” says Bill Camarillo, Agromin’s CEO. “They are creating healthy food, beautifying landscapes and improving our planet.”

Fall into an amazing event(s) at the Museum of Ventura County!

Play Date in the Children’s Garden

Friday, October 25
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura

Join us for a Play Date in the Garden with Pinaysphere, where kids can learn about Filipino culture by crafting their own bahay kubo which is a traditional Filipino house built on stilts. This playful activity celebrates the simplicity and creativity of these iconic homes, known for their adaptability and resourcefulness. Led by Pinaysphere, an organization dedicated to empowering Filipino women and youth through art and culture, this event will be filled with fun, learning, and creativity as we explore the beauty of Filipino heritage together! Adult supervision required, register at no charge HERE!

UCSB — The Current — ‘Promoting Latiné excellence: A Q&A with inaugural HSI director Veronica Fematt’ and more news, events

Tasked with uniting efforts across campus to enhance “servingness” — an HSI model that goes beyond enrollment numbers to truly support the success of Latiné — Fematt characterized the establishment of the new role as a “significant step forward” for the campus.