Honorable Judge Brian J. Back. Courtesy photos.
VENTURA — This weekend, at the second annual Voices of Hope Gala, the Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation (VCFJC Foundation) successfully concluded their 2024 fundraising campaign ahead of August’s Camp HOPE, raising nearly $275,000. During the Gala, held at the scenic Zachari Dunes, three local honorees were awarded for their contributions to family justice in Ventura County – Hero of the Year, Co-Director of Anacapa Surgery Associates, Dr. Thomas Duncan; Champion of the Year, Ventura County Superior Court Judge, the Honorable Brian J. Back (ret.); and Community Advocate of the Year, Ventura County Community Foundation. During a particularly memorable moment, survivors of family violence and trauma shared their stories of resilience in their own voices, an emotional and inspiring reminder of hope for an audience that included local leaders, elected officials, and community changemakers.
Honorees Judge Brian J. Back and Dr. Thomas Duncan.
The funds raised provide support and resources for all seeking justice in support of children and families impacted by violence and trauma in Ventura County, including sponsorships for Ventura County children to attend the Camp HOPE America – Ventura County (Camp HOPE) program, an evidence-based camping and mentoring program for children exposed to trauma. Other resources provided by VCFJC Foundation to survivors experiencing trauma after violent crimes include clothing, toys, backpacks, books, medical equipment, wheelchair and mobility aids, cell phones, gift cards and other essentials.
Mark Varela.
“Our goal is to support survivors as they navigate what, for many, can be the most difficult moment of their lives,” said Vanessa Melendrez Jimenez, Executive Development Officer of Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation. “The funds raised at this year’s Gala will go far to secure essential items for survivors while also ensuring that we can provide even more children the opportunity to attend Camp HOPE.” The cost to send one child to Camp Hope is approximately $2,000.
Guests arriving at Zachari Dunes were welcomed with a performance by American Idol alumnus Bella Lucareli. As guests enjoyed live-music and refreshments, they were greeted by Hope, the miniature horse from Reins of Hope, who offered guests Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and a warm hug. The evening commenced with welcome remarks from Ventura County District Attorney, Erik Nasarenko followed by recognition of the evening’s honorees. Local first responders and law-enforcement officers also showed their support for family justice with Oxnard Police Department providing an exclusive look behind the wheel of their fleet vehicles before the event and Ventura County Fire volunteering a dinner for six as part of the live auction.
Emotions were high as spotlights appeared revealing survivors sharing their stories of hope and resilience and how Ventura County Family Justice Center supported their journey of healing. The moment was a surprise for those in attendance, with stories emerging from throughout the crowd, demonstrating that the need for support can come from anywhere.
Voices of Hope Gala was made possible in part by generous sponsors including, California Commercial Investment Companies and Housing Opportunities for People Everywhere (HOPE).
Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation – The Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation is a tax-exempt non-profit 501(c) (3) that was formed to provide funding and resources for the Ventura County Family Justice Center and its programs for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder and dependent adult abuse, hate crimes, human trafficking, and other violent crimes in Ventura County. The vision of Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation is to advocate for a future free of all forms of interpersonal violence in Ventura County by supporting the co-location and integration of local governmental agencies and community–based organizations.