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Category: Youth
Ventura Housing helps students start the school year strong at Back-to-School Resource Fair
VENTURA — Ventura Housing on July 25 welcomed families from across the community to its Westview Property for its annual Back-to-School Resource Fair, providing free backpacks, school supplies, meals and entertainment alongside direct access to more than 20 community organizations to help students start the new school year prepared for success. Centered around the theme “Strong Families, Strong Futures,” the fair connected families with educational opportunities, health and wellness resources, workforce development programs, mental health services and youth enrichment activities. Participating partners included Ventura County Library, Ventura College, California Lutheran University, Clinicas del Camino Real, and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Ventura, giving attendees direct access to programs and services that support student success long after the first day of school.
United Way’s Fun in the Sun Scholars join the Music Academy of the West
SANTA BARBARA — More than 350+ elementary school students enrolled in United Way of Santa Barbara County’s Fun in the Sun summer learning program participated in an arts education experience this week with a live performance of Britten’s The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra by the Music Academy’s Chamber Orchestraconducted by William Long and featuring acting troupe Really Inventive Stuff, plus an instrument exploration station hosted by the Santa Barbara Symphony.
The field trip was made possible by the Music Academy of the West and sponsored by Montecito Bank & Trust and all partners of Santa Barbara County’s arts and education programs.
Ventura Harbor Village celebrates the Summer with waterfront & island adventures, live entertainment, whale watching, coastal dining, shopping & relaxation
VENTURA — Summer is in full swing at Ventura Harbor Village, Southern California’s premier seaside destination where visitors can savor ocean breezes, fresh coastal cuisine, boutique shopping, family-friendly entertainment, and unforgettable adventures on the water. Whether planning a day trip or weekend getaway, Ventura Harbor Village offers the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation along Ventura’s picturesque waterfront. www.VenturaHarborVillage.com
Music Academy of the West — Announcing the Mariposa Concert Series 2026-27
SANTA BARBARA — The Music Academy of the West proudly announces the 2026-2027 Mariposa Concert Series, a collection of intimate musical experiences held in Hahn Hall on the Academy’s Miraflores campus in Montecito. The series furthers the Academy’s mission to bring exceptional music to the community throughout the year by showcasing the artistry of esteemed Music Academy alums and world-renowned musicians.
California Lutheran University School of Management — Explore CESI’s Ventura County Social Issues Database
Ventura County, like many other places in California, brings affluence and poverty together across its neighborhoods. Deep, persistent inequalities continue to threaten the future of Ventura County’s children and communities.
The following infographic data from the CESI Database exposes some of these critical gaps. Take a look at the information provided, and do not forget that poverty is a byproduct of our economic system and can be eliminated by investing in ourselves and, most importantly, in our children.
Bilingual report — August 2026 County of Santa Barbara Newsletter
UCSB — The Current — ‘Christopher Costello recognized for his pioneering work in environmental markets’ and more news, events
The Distinguished Professor and emLab Director was just named a Fellow of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists (AERE), the highest honor bestowed in the field of environmental and resource economics.
Bilingual report — Astronaut Dr. José Hernández will be the special guest at the South Oxnard Library Block Party and Mural Celebration on Aug. 22
Families invited to the YMCA Adventure Guides & Trailblazers Welcome BBQ, Aug. 15
Adventure Guides & Trailblazers is a family-centered YMCA program for parents and their children (ages 5-11) in the Conejo and Simi valleys. Parent-child pairs join a Circle with families in their neighborhood or the school they attend. Adventure Guides is for children in kindergarten through second grade. Trailblazers is for children in third grade and up.
Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital’s Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp wraps up transformative week of sports, confidence and connection
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital recently concluded another successful Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp, bringing together youth with physical disabilities for a week of adapted sports and recreation at the UCSB Recreation Center. Held July 13-16, the camp welcomed approximately…
Bilingual report — Santa Clara River Valley Communities to host Health Care Future Forum
VENTURA — As the Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA) approaches the August 18, 2026, Board of Supervisors meeting, HCA is finalizing its strategic review of continued health care service options for the Santa Clara River Valley (SCRV) and Santa Paula Hospital (SPH). With state-mandated 2030 seismic deadlines approaching, this work provides a timely opportunity to redesign healthcare delivery to be more sustainable, accessible, and responsive to residents.
HCA has engaged the consulting firm Health Management Associates (HMA) to support the health care planning for SCRV. HMA is a national independent research and consulting firm that focuses on publicly-financed health care.
Bilingual guest commentary by Kaiser Permanente — Want your child to succeed in school? Start with these healthy habits
As families across Ventura County prepare for the new school year, parents can take a few simple steps to help their children start strong both academically and emotionally, according to a local health expert.
“Getting ready for school is about more than buying supplies,” said Dr. Kristina Kang, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Camarillo. “Healthy habits, routine medical care and open communication with your child’s doctor can make a big difference in their success throughout the new school year.”
One Step A La Vez in Fillmore — Back to School Backpack Drive
… One Step A La Vez is passionate about serving the needs of our community, particularly those of underserved teens and families who may lack the necessary resources to excel in their education. With the new school year fast approaching, we are gearing up to provide backpacks filled with essential school supplies to teens in need. Our goal is not only to equip these children with the tools they need to succeed academically but also to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by their families.
Rachel Guettler Joins California Lutheran University as Vice President for Growth and Advancement
THOUSAND OAKS — For over 20 years, Rachel Guettler, Ed.D., has built her career in philanthropy, student enrollment and leadership coaching. She will bring this expertise to her new position as the vice president for growth and advancement at California Lutheran University. Guettler will start Aug. 17 as the senior leader responsible for advancing the university’s enrollment strategies and leading institutional growth through fundraising, partnerships and external engagement.
“A leader in development and growth in higher education, Rachel has a strong mission-driven approach and background in relationship-building that aligns with Cal Lutheran’s vision and values,” said Laureen Hill, M.D., MBA, chief strategy and growth officer.
LEAP — For Art’s Sake: Process Art builds lifelong skills for preschoolers
GOLETA — Tiny hands covered in paint. A sculpture made of sticks, feathers, and toilet paper rolls. A masterpiece that looks nothing like anyone else’s. At LEAP’s Children’s Centers, this isn’t a random art activity—it’s a strategic approach to early childhood development.
On July 28, LEAP’s Process Art Show at its Phelps Children’s Center showcased artwork created by children ranging from two years old through Pre-K. Students experimented with materials, made their own choices, solved problems, and expressed their ideas freely—creating one-of-a-kind works of art.
At LEAP, children engage in both product art and process art, each offering unique opportunities for learning and development.
Girls Inc. of Carpinteria adds new music room to facilities
CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is thrilled to announce the addition of a fully equipped music room to its campus facilities and extends its gratitude to local Montecito residents and singers/songwriters, Lila and Georgia MacPhail, for their generous contribution of this exciting new learning space.
The addition of this space for the creative arts allows the organization to expand its mission to offer girls abundant opportunities to learn and grow as they become the strong, smart, and bold leaders of tomorrow.
Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Building a More Circular Central Coast. See upcoming events
Discover how CEC is reducing waste at the source, and how you can help create a circular future.
Local high school artists take the stage at TOArts Creators Conservatory Showcase
THOUSAND OAKS — TOArts invites the community to celebrate the next generation of local artists at the culminating showcase of its Creators Conservatory on Tuesday, August 4 at 1:00 p.m. in the Scherr Forum Theatre at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center.
The showcase will feature original adaptations of The Day the Crayons Quit, the bestselling children’s book written by local author Drew Daywalt, alongside musical theatre selections students have developed throughout the program.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Deborah Williams joins Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame for decades of trailblazing public service’ and more news
The lecturer successfully advanced public health, environmental conservation, community infrastructure and youth empowerment across the Last Frontier
Ventura College Foundation raises $7.1 million during ‘Invest in Success’ fundraising campaign
VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation announced it surpassed the $7 million goal of its “Invest in Success” fundraising campaign by $117,289.
The Invest in Success campaign was launched when the Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors approved a plan to sustain the long-term future of the VC Promise Program and Basic Needs Centers.
“Ventura College exists because our community believes that education has the power to transform lives. The outstanding success of the Invest in Success campaign is a powerful reflection of that shared commitment in action. Together, Ventura College, the Ventura College Foundation, and our generous donors are ensuring that financial hardship doesn’t stand between a student and the opportunity to access education and pursue their educational goals,” says Dr. Luca E. Lewis, Ventura College president.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Farmers’ Market Discount Cards Distribution begins in August
VENTURA — The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency, is starting its annual distribution of discount cards to be used at participating Farmers’ Markets. Adults over the age of 60 who are on a limited income and meet the eligibility guidelines may receive this free benefit.
Cards are only available while supplies last at each distribution point. They can be used to purchase up to $50 in fresh, nutritious, unprocessed, locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs.
City Impact in Oxnard opens call for exhibitors at Thrive Together 2026
OXNARD — City Impact, Inc., a Ventura County-based nonprofit dedicated to serving at-promise youth and families since 1995, today announced that exhibitor tables are now available for local small businesses and vendors at the Thrive Together Awards 2026, the organization’s signature annual celebration of entrepreneurship, innovation and community impact.
The Thrive Together Awards will take place on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 5:00–9:00 PM at the Museum of Ventura County, 100 E. Main St., Ventura.
Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing July 2026 e-newsletter
The overwhelmingly bipartisan supported and much awaited 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is now law and with it comes a raft of improved regulations and access to financing fit, as the name implies, for this century. Those provisions include:
Billions of dollars of unlocked bank equity allowed to invest in low-income housing tax credit funded projects
Reauthorization and reforms of housing production programs.
Increases to FHA multifamily statutory loan limits.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Department of Child Support Services celebrates Child Support Awareness Month with ‘Strong Families Start with Support’
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS) invites the community to celebrate Child Support Awareness Month throughout August with this year’s theme, “Strong Families Start with Support.” As part of the celebration, VCDCSS will host Family Connections Day on Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the VCDCSS parking lot.
Hosted by the Ventura County Department of Child Support, this free event will bring together families for educational workshops, community resources, and family-friendly activities that promote financial well-being, child safety, and strong family connections. The event reflects VCDCSS’s ongoing commitment to supporting parents, strengthening families, and helping children thrive.
Allan Hancock College Community Education launches tuition-free barbering program
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College Community Education is opening the door to a new career with the launch of its tuition-free barbering program this fall. The new program will provide aspiring barbers with an accessible, affordable pathway into one of California’s most sought-after skilled professions. An interest list for the program is currently open for potential students.
SBCC’s Dual Enrollment Summer Bridge Program introduces more than 100 rising ninth graders to college
SANTA BARBARA — This summer, Santa Barbara City College’s (SBCC) Dual Enrollment Summer Bridge Program welcomed more than 100 rising ninth-grade students from the Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD) and Carpinteria Unified School District (CUSD) for an immersive week-long college experience designed to inspire confidence, build a sense of belonging, and encourage students to pursue higher education.
Presented through SBCC’s Dual Enrollment Program, in partnership with SBUSD PEAC Program (see below) and supported by the Foundation for Santa Barbara City College, the Dual Enrollment Summer Bridge provides first-generation and historically underrepresented students with an early introduction to college life before they begin high school. Throughout the week of June 22-26, students earned one unit of transferable college credit while developing the academic, personal, and social skills needed for future success inside and outside of the classroom.
SEEAG to create Farm Lab Hub at La Colina Junior High School in partnership with Santa Barbara Unified School District
SANTA BARBARA — Students for Eco-Education andAgriculture (SEEAG) and the Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD) entered into an agreement in which SEEAG will educate elementary and junior high school students about the origins of food, sustainable farming practices, and potential careers in agriculture at La Colina Junior High School in Santa Barbara.
The programs will begin at the start of the 2026-27 school year.
La Colina will host a regional SEEAG Farm Lab Hub, bringing togetherstudents of multiple age groups for hands-on agricultural and environmental education. Third graders from nearby schools in the district will explorewater, plant, and soil science through SEEAG’s Farm Lab field trips in theexisting garden space, while seventh- and eighth-grade students will engage in advanced STEM investigations within two new learningenvironments: an Agricultural Innovation & STEM Discovery Lab and aCalifornia Climate Resilience & Conservation Learning Lab.
Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) renews support for llan Hancock College’s Fire Academy
SANTA MARIA — For a second consecutive year, Allan Hancock College’s Fire Academy will receive $50,000 through the Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) to provide protective equipment and scholarships, helping reduce financial barriers for students pursuing careers in firefighting.
“Programs like the Metallica Scholars Initiative continue to create meaningful opportunities for our students while helping address California’s workforce needs,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “This continued investment helps ensure more students can complete their training and begin careers serving their communities.”
Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura
Looking for your next career opportunity? Join us for the 2026 County of Ventura Career & Resource Expo + Candidate Connect on Wednesday, August 26, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Government Center Courtyard between the Hall of Administration and the Hall of Justice.
This free event is open to everyone and offers the chance to explore careers in technology, public safety, healthcare, engineering, environmental services and many other fields.
Meet representatives from County departments and agencies, learn about current job opportunities and, new this year, visit the Candidate Connect booth to speak directly with County recruiters and get your questions answered.
Whether you’re considering a career change, entering the workforce or looking for your next opportunity in public service, this event is a great place to start.
Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) — Power of Purpose — July 2026 Newsletter
I am reminded every day just how much we are all part of the fabric of our Ventura County community, and how much good happens when we support one another and do it together.
In May, I attended the League of California Community Foundations’ Spring Convening along with VCCF President & CEO Vanessa Bechtel. There, we met with legislators on topics like access to highest-quality early childhood education through the Isabella Project, disaster resilience and support for our neighbors through the Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund and more. I also got to exchange ideas with other community foundation board chairs, learn from their experiences and see what is applicable here in Ventura County.
Girls Inc. of Carpinteria welcomes new board members
Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is thrilled to welcome Das Williams, Ashley Smith Fraser, and Danielle Bordenave to its Board of Directors, effective July 2026. …
“We are so pleased to welcome Das, Ashley, and Danielle to our board,” said Executive Director Jamie Collins. “Each brings with them a unique perspective that deepens our leadership’s understanding of how to best serve youth in our community and strengthen our mission of inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.”
UCSB — The Current — ‘In the battle of the sexes, the pay gap persists’ and more news
Ventura County Probation Agency celebrates Probation Services Week 2026
VENTURA COUNTY — In recognition of Probation Services Week, observed July 19–25, 2026, the Ventura County Probation Agency is honoring the officers and staff who work every day to strengthen public safety, support victims, promote accountability, and help rehabilitate individuals in the justice system.
Every day across California, probation professionals work behind the scenes supervising justice-involved individuals, responding to crises, supporting victims and families, and connecting people to the services and resources they need to successfully rebuild their lives. As California’s justice system continues to evolve, probation departments play an increasingly important role in balancing accountability, rehabilitation, and long-term community safety.
Bilingual report — Third Local Bird Tests Positive for West Nile Virus in Ventura County
VENTURA —The Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) received confirmation from the California Department of Public Health that a bird collected on July 2nd, 2026, from the city of Thousand Oaks, tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). WNV is established in Ventura County and additional WNV positives are expected.Ventura County Public Health confirms that no human cases have been identified to date in 2026.
Signups for YMCA After-School Child Care Programs underway for 2026-27 School Year
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — YMCA branches serving the Conejo Valley, Simi Valley, and Moorpark areas are registering students in TK through fifth grade for after-school child care programs for the coming 2026-27 school year.
Child care is available on school days, pupil-free days and minimum days. YMCA School’s Out Camp programs are held during Thanksgiving, winter, and spring breaks. Each program provides a structured environment that includes homework time, STEAM activities, arts and crafts, sports and nutritious snacks. All child care staff are state-licensed and certified in CPR and first aid.
Escape The Heat & Experience — A Coastal Getaway To Lompoc
LOMPOC — It’s peak summer in California, and the heat is not being subtle about it.
Visitors experience heat waves, hot pavement, crowded coastlines, and a constant search for indoor, air-conditioned activities.
Then there’s Lompoc.
Just a few miles from the Pacific, the temperature takes a deep breath. Ocean breezes drift in, mornings often start with a light coastal mist, and summer days settle into something far more comfortable than you’d expect from peak season in California.
Ventura Music Festival Opening Night Gala announces upcoming events
Monday, July 20, 2026
Palomino | 6:00 PM
Attire: Semi-Formal
?(Feel free to dress the part!)
Join us for an evening at the speakeasy as we enjoy absinthe-inspired libations, exceptional bites, and 1930s French swing jazz by the renowned San Lyon ensemble. Proceeds to benefit VMF’s music education and community programs.
Teatro de las Américas — Don’t miss your chance to see Twelfth Night on July 19
OXNARD — Don’t miss your chance to see Twelfth Night! Tickets are still available, but they’re selling fast. You can skip straight to the front of our line and secure your tickets by visiting our website.
Bilingual report — Extreme heat warning within Ventura County
VENTURA COUNTY — The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued a widespread extreme heat warning for … through Thursday, July 16, 2026. Temperatures in the interior valleys and mountain areas are expected to exceed the 100-degree mark for a prolonged period, with relatively poor overnight recovery in the mountains and foothills. A heat advisory has been issued for the coastal plains, where temperatures are expected to reach between 90 and 100 degrees.
High temperatures may create a dangerous situation in which heat-related illness is possible. Residents are encouraged to: drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms, stay out of the sun, check on relatives and neighbors, take extra precautions if working or spending time outside, and wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
United Way of Ventura County — The latest news for you
Community Environmental Council (CEC) announces variety of upcoming events
Before you recycle or throw something away, let’s see if it can be repaired! Join us Saturday, July 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at CEC’s Environmental Hub (1219 State St.) for Repair Cafe Santa Barbara, where skilled volunteer fixers will help you troubleshoot and repair everyday items.
Bring up to two items to fix — whether it’s clothing, electronics, bicycles, furniture, toys, or small appliances. You’ll work side by side with volunteers, learn practical repair skills, and help keep valuable items in use instead of creating unnecessary waste.
UCSB — The Current — ‘As California warms, cases of dengue fever are expected to grow’ and more news, events
A warming climate is making the Golden State more hospitable to dengue fever and the mosquitoes that carry it.
Inaugural Cohort of The Leadership Collaborative at CCVC celebrated across the Ventura County Community College District
CAMARILLO — The inaugural cohort of The Leadership Collaborative at CCVC (Community Colleges of Ventura County) celebrated the completion of the seven-month leadership development program designed to cultivate thoughtful, values-driven leaders and strengthen collaboration across the district and the communities it serves.
Grounded in the belief that leadership exists at every level of an organization, The Leadership Collaborative brings together Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) employees from diverse roles and disciplines to develop the human-centered leadership skills needed to foster meaningful relationships, navigate complexity and change and strengthen the vitality of our communities. Selected through a competitive application process, the cohort included members of the faculty, classified professionals, supervisors, directors and deans representing all three colleges and the District Administrative Center.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Psst… it’s not too late to be part of the silent auction and get exclusive tickets
Lumina Alliance welcomes three new board bembers, Honors outgoing Leaders for Years of Service
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Alliance is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors while recognizing four outgoing board members whose leadership helped guide the organization through one of the most transformative periods in its history.
Joining the Board of Directors are:
• Adrienne Dodd, Human Resources Director, CommonSpirit Health
• Heather Muran, Director of Portfolio Strategy & Marketing, Covelop Inc.
• Meghan Shoven, Director, Adventist Health Central Coast Foundation
Santa Barbara Education Foundation welcomes Leonor Reyes as programs manager
Reyes, a San Marcos High School graduate and parent of three Santa Barbara Unified School District alumni, brings a lifelong connection to local public education and a passion for supporting students, families, and educators. As Programs Manager, Reyes will oversee SBEF’s enrichment programs and initiatives that enhance student learning and engagement across the district, including programs such as the Summer Music Camps and the Foundation’s annual Educator Grants program, which will invest more than $228,000 in innovative classroom projects across Santa Barbara Unified School District schools this year.
805UndocuFund to present ‘The Glass House Raids, One Year Later: A Vigil honoring the families and communities impacted,’ to be held July 10
CAMARILLO — “The Glass House Raids, One Year Later: A Vigil honoring the families and communities impacted,” will be held from 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 10 at 645 Laguna Road, Camarillo.
The event will publicly gather the community to mourn the loss of our community one year ago, to remember the efforts of our community to defend itself, to remember that we are still supporting our community after the events of that day. (Spanish Interpretation Available).
Bilingual report — Mosquito sample tests positive for West Nile Virus in Ventura County
VENTURA — The Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) received confirmation from the California Department of Public Health that mosquitoes collected from the City of Fillmore on June 17th, 2026, tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). WNV is established in Ventura County and additional WNV positives are expected. This is the first mosquito sample collected in 2026 from Ventura County to test positive for WNV. Ventura County Public Health confirms that no human cases have been identified to date in 2026.
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College faculty member creates documentary to support conservation efforts in Namibia
SANTA MARIA — What began as a personal connection during a trip to southern Africa has become a documentary project aimed at protecting one of the world’s most unique ecosystems and the Indigenous communities who call it home.
Allan Hancock College film studies instructor Tim Webb recently completed a short documentary for Himbaland Indigenous Conservation, a nonprofit organization working in the remote Namib Desert of northwestern Namibia. The film was created to help the organization share its story with a broader audience and support fundraising efforts focused on community development and wildlife conservation.
Central Coast United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Raising Justice is Back on Sept. 17th! — Join Us for Our 25th Anniversary Celebration
For the past 20 years now, you’ve created a Raising Justice that continues to bring together hundreds of our movement friends for a fun early evening of food, drinks, music, and community rooted in our shared organizing for a more just region. It’s free to attend with an invite to donate any amount that feels right to you.
Today, we invite you to join our growing circle of Early Event Sponsors. Sponsors not only underwrite the event, but also allow our work throughout the year to stay community supported and here for the long haul — it’s one of the ways you can ensure our event’s success.
Social Justice Fund for Ventura County — Passion to Progress, and Fellows on the Move!
Bilingual report — City of Ventura releases Fall Parks and Recreation Activity Guide
The City of Ventura Parks and Recreation Department’s Fall Activity Guide is now available, featuring hundreds of classes, programs, and events taking place from September through January.
Registration opens Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Residents can register online, by phone, or in person at Ventura City Hall (501 Poli Street, Room 226). Registration information and policies are available on page 43 of the guide.
The Fall Activity Guide offers activities for all ages and interests, including ceramics, cooking, creative writing, parent-and-child classes, pet wellness, fitness, sports, and more. Check out several free new workshops focused on Financial Literacy and Health and Safety on pages 10-11.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — Summer Reading, Constitution Day, Civic Tours, and More
Get fun summer reading ideas, activities, and more from the VCOE Library’s Summer Reading Extravaganza. Click here to check out local libraries’ summer reading programs and get online access to free full-length young adult novels. Also, find out how summer readers can earn free ride tickets for the Ventura County Fair.
UCSB — The Current — ‘New rainfall dataset enhances global monitoring of extreme weather’ and more news
A new, UCSB-developed version of a world-leading rainfall data product guides drought early warning, disaster relief, index insurance applications and more.
Read more about “CHIRPS”
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics expands affordable behavioral health services for Santa Barbara County residents
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) is strengthening access to comprehensive Behavioral Health Services for individuals and families throughout Santa Barbara County through an integrated, whole-person care model designed to address both physical and mental health needs.
Santa Barbara County has significant community behavioral health needs that extend beyond the publicly funded specialty mental health system. Many residents experience challenges accessing timely outpatient mental health services due to insurance, cost, and provider availability. Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics helps address these gaps by providing integrated, community-based behavioral health services for individuals and families who might otherwise experience barriers to care.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Parks announces launch of new reservation management website and policy updates
VENTURA — Ventura County Parks is excited to announce major improvements for park visitors with the launch of a new reservation management website. These updates make booking easier, offer longer advance windows for popular sites, and introduce new self-service options for Day Use and Community Center reservations. New features for our guests include online booking for Distinguished Veterans, extended 180-day windows for Rincon Parkway, and streamlined self-service for Day Use and Community Centers. These enhancements are designed to make planning visits more convenient and accessible.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — FREE – AI Webinar Series (July 14, 21, 23, 28; Aug. 4, 11, 13, 18): Back by Popular Demand!
Back by popular demand, this FREE webinar series is designed to help small business owners use AI to save time, improve marketing and grow revenue.
Attend one session or all
All sessions are practical and beginner-friendly
United Way of Ventura County announces Annual Spirit Award recipients
VENTURA — United Way of Ventura County is pleased to announce the 21st Annual Spirit Award Recipients. These awards honor our Founding members. Every year since 2005, individuals and organizations who embody the qualities of Milton M. Teague, Douglas Shively, and Roy Pinkerton are selected for this prestigious honor. This year we will also award our President’s Award, and our Women United Award. The awards and awardees are listed below:
Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — Bilingual stop-motion animation workshop for children (July 6-24)
Bilingual stop-motion animation workshop for children. *** Taller bilingüe de animación cuadro por cuadro para niños.