Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,
What a welcome! From the incredible VCCF staff, board members, donors, and nonprofit partners to the friendly barista at Old New York Deli & Bakery, I’ve felt an immediate sense of home and belonging here in Ventura County. I want to take a moment to share my reflections on my first 100-plus days and the deep hope and responsibility I feel stepping into this role.
After 22 years as CEO of a community foundation in Northern California, I stepped down last July in search of one final adventure—something meaningful to carry me into retirement with purpose. Vanessa and I have been friends and colleagues for over 10 years, and when she heard I was exploring what might come next, she invited me to Ventura County. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the dedication, humility, and heart of this community. I knew I had found something special.
From day one, I was encouraged to get out and connect with the people and organizations doing the work. Board Chair Sean Leonard introduced me to housing initiatives supporting our unhoused neighbors, farm workers, and under-resourced families. I visited Westminster Free Clinic, Conejo Free Clinic, and the Samaritan Center in Simi Valley—each delivering life-changing services with grace and grit.
I’ve also connected with a wide range of nonprofits, from Ventura County Animal Services to MICOP to the Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College. Each visit has deepened my admiration for this region’s creativity, compassion, and resilience.
While the work I’ve seen has inspired me, I’ve also been reminded that many families are facing real hardships. From rising costs to increased uncertainty and reduced social services, this is a time of great need. That’s why I’m especially proud that just this week alone, the VCCF Board approved more than $550,000 in new community grants.
This includes $100,000 to seed a fund focused on reducing violence through a public health lens. We’ve also provided support for Know Your Rights workshops, supported our local Boys & Girls Clubs, helped fund Camp HOPE for youth healing from trauma, and sponsored MICOP’s upcoming Night in Oaxaca.
If these first 100-plus days are any sign of what’s ahead, then yes—I’ve absolutely made the right decision. I’m grateful for the chance to learn, grow, and serve in a community that leads with its heart, especially when times are hard. Thank you for making me feel so welcome and for being part of such meaningful work.
With appreciation and hope,
Gary Byrne
