VENTURA COUNTY, Calif. — In the spirit of giving, the Foundation of Ventura County Credit Union hosted its inaugural recognition event, "Celebrating Our Community."
The event, held at the Ventura County Credit Union headquarters in Ventura, brought together dozens of representatives from local nonprofits, elected officials, volunteers and friends.
Throughout the 2023 calendar year, the Foundation of VCCU said it awarded a total of $115,000 in grants to 25 deserving organizations in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.
All 2023 grant recipients were present at the event, underlining the communal spirit of the evening. Guest speakers Faith and David Friedlander from Kids & Families Together, as well as George Casarez representing the Ventura College Foundation, shared moving accounts during the ceremony.
Both organizations were recipients of a $2,500 grants from the Foundation of VCCU.
"This event symbolizes the deep-rooted commitment of the Foundation to support and uplift our local communities,” said Alma Medina, president of the Foundation of VCCU. “We are thrilled to have shared this evening with our partners, donors and the incredible organizations making a difference."
The credit union said a highlight of the evening was the announcement by Linda Rossi, president and CEO of Ventura County Credit Union, introducing "The Roxy Ostrem Community Spirit Award.” Named in honor of Roxy Ostrem, this accolade recognizes her exceptional contributions to facilitating affordable financial services for the unbanked and the establishment of the Foundation of VCCU.
The first recipient of the prestigious award will be announced in 2024, commemorating individuals who exemplify the same spirit of service that Roxy Ostrem embodied throughout her impactful career.