VCCF Power of Purpose – March 2024

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Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,

Last month, we shared with you the devastating losses experienced by more than 400 low-income families and seniors following the historic and destructive flash flooding of December 21 in Ventura County. The outpouring of support once again demonstrates community’s generosity and compassion, where neighbors stand with one another during times of need.

To date, more than $500,000 has been contributed to help our affected neighbors. We are grateful to the herculean efforts of the County of Ventura Office of Emergency Services and municipalities of Oxnard, Port Hueneme and Ventura for their diligent efforts distributing these funds to those most impacted.

As eloquently described by a gentleman in his mid-80s this past weekend, the loss extends beyond wiping out savings and losing homes and vehicles; it encompasses cherished memories held in photographs and meaningful possessions. Many have been left with nothing.

Tragically, these households have received very little additional support. FEMA assistance is unavailable, and most are being disqualified from loan assistance due to lack of required income. We invite you to please consider joining us as we continue to do all we can to help and donate to support these families.

On a different note, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the County of Ventura for their invaluable investment in arts and culture in our region with the Ventura County Arts and Culture Investment Fund. Please help us by spreading the word about this exciting grant opportunity, with details below.

As someone whose life was profoundly changed at the age of 2 ½ when I was handed a violin and lessons, I have personally experienced the remarkable power of the arts to change lives and foster authentic connections.

With continued gratitude,

Vanessa
Vanessa Bechtel, VCCF President & CEODonate Now

The County of Ventura, in collaboration with the Ventura County Community Foundation and the Ventura County Arts Council, is thrilled to announce the Arts and Culture Investment Fund Grant Opportunity. The grants available are designed to revitalize and encourage the arts community in Ventura County. They aim to foster creativity, cooperation, and a greater involvement in the arts throughout the county.

The application window for these grant programs closes at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2024.Learn More & Apply

Two Caregiver Pilot Program Stories: The Reznikoffs and Jovy

Meet Carol and Alex, Full-Time Caregivers for their Daughter

Hear the story of Carol and Alex Reznikoff, local full-time caretakers for their adult daughter Lina, who was diagnosed with Lyme disease and multiple sclerosis. See how the VCCF Caregiver Navigator Pilot Program helped connect the family with the resources and support they needed.Watch the Video

Meet Jovy, Full-Time Caregiver for her Mother

“This program is helping patients and caregivers experience a better quality of life and, perhaps more importantly, it is keeping people healthier and at home, where they would rather be,” said Jovy Michael, full-time caregiver for her mother Cora. Read about the transformational impact on Jovy’s life after receiving support from her Caregiver Navigator, Mayra Lopez of St. John’s Regional Medical Center.Read Cora and Jovy’s Story

VCCF Donor Spotlight – Sean Leonard

Many know Sean Leonard as the Chair of the VCCF Board of Directors, and we would like to share Sean’s story as a generous member of the VCCF donor community who is inspired by his faith and family. Read the interview to hear his story and the impact that giving has made on his life.Read the Interview

Power of Community

Good News from YOUR Ventura Community

Childhood Matters
Community Wellness Center

Childhood Matters, a nonprofit that works to support the mental and emotional health of children and youth, has partnered with the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office. This new partnership will include on-site services at the Ventura County Family Justice Center. Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko expressed optimism about the new partnership, saying, “We are thrilled to be joining forces with Childhood Matters,” and believes this initiative falls in line with their shared goal to nurture a supportive community for families facing adversity. In response, Childhood Matters is deeply grateful for this invaluable support. Together they are collaborating to establish a community wellness space at 2982 Martha Drive, Ventura.