EPIC Leadership Center, a non-profit organization, is starting its Summer Program in Westview Village, Ventura.
Founded by Christine Wood, DMin about 15 years ago, the EPIC Leadership Center embarked on a mission to transform the lives of families in low income, higher risk neighborhoods in Ventura. Using the golden rule, “Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them”, as a guide to create “everyday leadership” regardless of age, education or ethnicity, EPIC created programs that offer children and youth activities that are coupled with character training that has and will transform their lives – one day at a time. In turn, transformed lives empower people to transform neighborhoods.
This summer, EPIC plans to provide summer programs to Westview Village three times a week, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The programming includes activities such as art, fieldtrips, sports, character and leadership training, and games. EPIC plans to offer parenting classes and summer tutoring or educational activities so students can stay fresh over the summer. EPIC would like to offer surf camp, bike club and style camp, activities that were on-going prior to the COVID pandemic. To meet their goals, volunteers are needed to augment the current volunteers and operational staff through the summer and beyond. EPIC has opportunities for Spanish speakers and translators, drivers, high school mentors and volunteers, with a passion to help transform lives. EPIC anticipates 8-30 kids will attend the summer programming.
In 2023, Chris Wood stepped down as President of the EPIC Board of Directors. Dar Rosario, Ventura, is now the President and plans to work with the board of directors to continue what Chris started, “I am truly amazed at the impact that EPIC has had in Ventura. I am convinced that EPIC can do more with exposure and more financial support.” Funding comes primarily through private donations from individual donors. Grants come from local banks and foundations such as Pacific Western Bank, Bank of Sierra, The Haskell fund, the Ventura Downtown Lions Club, and the Rotary Club of Ventura.
EPIC is moving forward and is looking for you; the summer program will truly be transformative. If you want to be part of transforming lives and neighborhoods right here in Ventura, visit epicleadershipcenter.org. for more information, volunteer opportunities, and to donate.
