Photo courtesy of Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI).
CAMARILLO — Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI) is inviting the community to support students experiencing food and basic-needs insecurity during the CSUCI Dolphin Pantry Donation Drive on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at Studio Channel Islands Art Center, 2222 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo.
The event is presented through a collaboration among CSUCI Basic Needs, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSUCI, and Studio Channel Islands Art Center. The eventconnects a passion for lifelong learning with the shared purpose of supporting CSUCI students.
Community members can participate by bringing shelf-stable food, toiletries, or household essentials for the Dolphin Pantry. In appreciation for donations, attendees are invited to a presentation beginning at 10 a.m. with CSUCI’s Basic Needs department highlighting how the Dolphin Pantry operates, the ways it supports CSUCI students, and how community members can contribute to its work.
Plus, a free one-hour seminar at 10:30 a.m., “Mind, Body & Healthy Aging,” presented by BiJian “BJ” Fan, one of OLLI at CSUCI’s most popular instructors. The seminar will offer a preview of Fan’s upcoming OLLI course, “Mindfulness in Aging.” Participants will explore how mindset and daily habits can influence memory, energy, physical health, and the aging process.
The Dolphin Pantry provides CSUCI students with access to food and other essential items, helping reduce barriers that can interfere with their academic progress and overall well-being. Donations collected during the event will directly support the pantry’s ability to serve CSUCI students.
“This event gives our community an opportunity to enjoy an engaging OLLI learning experience while making a direct and meaningful difference for CSUCI students,” said Daniel Banyai, Director of OLLI at CSUCI. “Every donated item helps the Dolphin Pantry provide students with essential support so they can remain focused on completing their education.”
Community members who cannot attend the presentations are still encouraged to donate. A van will be stationed at the Studio Channel Islands Art Center parking lot from 10 a.m. to noon, allowing donors to pull up and conveniently drop off items without attending the full event.
Monetary contributions will also be accepted. Participants may bring a check to the event or donate online.
Inspired by the communities it serves, OLLI at CSUCI offers intellectually engaging courses and learning experiences that connect community members with accomplished instructors, CSUCI faculty, and one another. In addition to creating opportunities for lifelong learning, OLLI strengthens the University’s connection with the surrounding community and provides its members with meaningful ways to support CSUCI students.
The CSUCI Dolphin Pantry Donation Drive is open to the public, and advance registration is requested. To register or learn more, visit OLLI Events, email olli@csuci.edu, or call 805-437-2748.
The University welcomes people with disabilities to participate in its programs, activities and events. If you need disability-related accommodation or have questions about accessibility, please visit Event Access as early as possible, preferably at least 10 business days before the event.
About Cal State Channel Islands
Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI) is Ventura County’s only public university. Opened in 2002, CSUCI is part of the California State University — the nation’s largest and most diverse four-year public university system. Located near Camarillo, the campus serves more than 4,800 students across more than 90 academic programs. A proud Hispanic-Serving Institution, CSUCI is recognized by the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education for its commitment to excellence and opportunity. Learn more at www.csuci.edu