Meet Elyssa Varela, Newest VCCF Staff Member

VCCF welcomes our newest team member, Elyssa Varela, Community Impact Officer and Executive Assistant to the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Philanthropy Officer. Born and raised in Ventura County, Elyssa now calls Santa Paula home. She is committed to assisting others and has a passion for supporting local animal rescues – whether it be through donating supplies or fostering as many dogs as she can.

Prior to joining VCCF, Elyssa worked at the City of Oxnard for five years as an Administrative Assistant with the Community Development Department and City Manager’s Office. Elyssa was previously a Planning Commissioner for the City of Santa Paula from 2018 to 2022. During that time, she saw the impact nonprofits provided to local communities and inspired her to seek opportunities where she can be of greater assistance to those in need.

She received a B.A. in communication from San Diego State University. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family—especially running around with her toddler son, catching up with longtime friends and relaxing on the couch with a good book when she can.