NeighborWorks Week 2025: Cabrillo EDC Brings Vital Resources to Residents
The Californer/10317806

VENTURA, Calif. - Californer -- Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) concluded its 2025 NeighborWorks Week celebrations with two community-focused events that brought critical services and resources directly to residents. Under this year's theme, "Creating Homes, Building America," Cabrillo EDC's resource fairs united neighbors, service providers, and local leaders to facilitate connections and opportunities.

Residents of Azahar Place in Ventura were joined on June 10 by local community organizations, elected officials, and even the Mister Softee ice cream truck for a lively afternoon of resource-sharing. Designed to support farmworkers and low-income families, the fair featured resources for healthcare, legal services, housing, mental health, and more. The event welcomed representatives from Assemblymember Steve Bennett's office, the City of Ventura, and NeighborWorks America. Certificates of recognition were passed out by the representatives, reaffirming their support for the communities Cabrillo EDC serves.

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The celebration continued a couple of days later on June 12 at the Santa Paulan Apartments with a "Coffee and Connect" fair that focused on providing resources for seniors at the property. Over coffee and conversation, residents engaged directly with more than 10 organizations dedicated to empowering community well-being and connected with representatives from healthcare providers, government agencies, and nonprofits that offer services. Pedro Chavez, Mayor of Santa Paula, joined residents to show his appreciation for the collaborative spirit that NeighborWorks Week represents.

Both events created inclusive, bilingual spaces where residents felt seen, supported, and celebrated. Dozens of families took part in meaningful conversations while taking advantage of opportunities to learn about vital community resources.

"NeighborWorks Week gives us the chance to reaffirm what we believe at our core: housing is just the beginning," said Victoria Brady, CEO of Cabrillo EDC. "These events reflect our dedication to doing more than just building homes. We are building a future where underserved communities are given tools to feel empowered."

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Cabrillo EDC extends heartfelt thanks to the community partners who helped make NeighborWorks Week 2025 a success. Cabrillo EDC was also honored to welcome Elenore A. Vaughn, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Paula, whose presence highlighted the importance of strong local partnerships in supporting affordable housing and community connection.

Each year, NeighborWorks Week highlights the nationwide impact of more than 250 organizations committed to strengthening neighborhoods. Cabrillo EDC's work exemplifies how affordable housing providers can also be conveners of opportunity, fueling progress and growth from within the communities they serve.