“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”—Mahatma Gandhi
By Carol Leish, MA –
The Ventura County Community Foundation connects people, resources and solutions to create a lasting impact throughout the region. The organization envisions an engaged, thriving community inspired by the generosity of Ventura County residents. Through trust, empathy and respect, the foundation continues to improve the lives of people across the county.
Vanessa Bechtel, president and CEO of the Ventura County Community Foundation, said, “Here at VCCF, we believe generosity is one of the ways a community tells the truth about what it loves. Ventura County is a place worth loving and a community worth serving. Together, we are dedicated to building a community where every person knows that they matter.”
Regarding the VCCF Scholarship Program, Bechtel added, “One exciting update is that in 2026 alone, more than $2 million has been allocated to Ventura County students. We are thrilled to share this news.”
A nonprofit organization, VCCF has served Ventura County for nearly 40 years. Its initial focus was helping nonprofits become more sustainable while providing donors with a way to leave complex gifts, such as real estate and stocks. In 1990, VCCF expanded its services to allow donors to establish scholarships for deserving students. In 2000, the foundation continued to evolve by providing community grantmaking opportunities that enabled donors to contribute collectively to common causes.
Today, VCCF brings residents together as agents of change working to strengthen Ventura County. Since 1987, the foundation has awarded approximately $250 million in grants to support the community. Those funds have benefited more than 10,000 organizations and local businesses. Support from more than 24,000 donors has advanced the foundation’s mission and expanded its reach throughout the county.
Through its nonprofit services and grant programs, VCCF is home to a library dedicated to nonprofit research and development. The collection includes publications, books and periodicals covering nonprofit management topics, as well as access to the Foundation Directory Online database for grant seekers.
VCCF continues to transform lives through a variety of initiatives, including:
- The Isabella Project, which supports high-quality early childhood education.
- Animal welfare programs.
- Caregiver support initiatives.
- Environmental programs.
- Scholarships for local students.
- Disaster resilience and preparedness efforts.
Community members can become involved through:
- Virtual Lunch & Learns.
- Isabella Project Lunch & Learns.
- Coffee & Connections events.
- The Donor Peer Network.
- Community events.
For more information, call VCCF at 805-988-0196, visit www.vccf.org or email info@vccf.org.
