Ventura County Public Defender’s Office: A Community Partner in Overdose Prevention
The Ventura County Public Defender’s Office has become a powerful partner in local overdose‑prevention efforts, offering free naloxone kits, fentanyl test strips, and bilingual education every Tuesday at the Hall of Justice. Their compassionate, judgment‑free approach is helping vulnerable clients and families stay safe, building trust, and expanding access to lifesaving resources at community events and Fresh Start clinics. Their work shows what true advocacy looks like—meeting people where they are and giving them another chance at recovery and stability.
Read the full story here: Overdose Prevention Newsletter
Ventura County Food Assistance Resources
Find local programs and services that provide food for individuals and families across Ventura County. From food pantries to meal distribution sites and community support organizations, these resources help ensure everyone has access to meals.
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Join us as we come together as a community to support children who are neglected or abused.
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Our programs provide quality court-based advocacy for abused and neglected children.
See how you can help.
Join us for an Information Session or Continuing Education Opportunity!
Presented by CASA of Ventura County in Collaboration with FKCE
Instructor: Jennifer Lucas
Caring for a child or youth with developmental disabilities or delays comes with a unique set of responsibilities... and a unique set of rights. Navigating the systems designed to support these children can feel complex and overwhelming, especially for caregivers who are new to the process. But understanding how these systems work and what your child is entitled to can make all the difference in the level of care and support they receive. From understanding the laws that protect them, to building individualized plans that reflect their unique needs, demystify the regional center system and empower yourself as a CASA or caregiver to confidently advocate for the children and youth in your care.
In this training, participants will:
Learn about the State Council on Developmental Disabilities and your role within it
Understand the Lanterman Act and the rights it protects
Navigate the regional center system and eligibility requirements
Understand the Individual Program Plan and available services
Address disagreements and advocate with confidence
The children and youth you work with deserve access to every service and support they are entitled to, and you deserve to feel confident and prepared in helping them get there. This training is your foundation for doing both.
CE Hours: 2
Presented by CalTrin
LGBTQIA+ children and youth in social services often experience rejection, isolation, and stigma, which increase risks of trauma and negative outcomes. This training equips professionals with actionable strategies to promote affirming care and allyship among foster families, chosen families, support networks, and caseworkers. By implementing inclusive practices, professionals can strengthen protective factors, reduce harm, and create environments where LGBTQIA+ youth feel safe, valued, and supported.
Participants will:
1. Identify three key impacts of affirming care and allyship on the well-being of LGBTQIA+ youth in social service settings.
2. List four practical strategies to engage foster families, chosen families, and support networks in creating inclusive, affirming environments.
3. Demonstrate two communication techniques to advocate for affirming practices among caseworkers and organizational systems
CE Hours: 2
Our office is open daily by appointment.
Please call (805) 389-3120 or email info@casaofventuracounty.org to schedule a time to come in.
If you are experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, please do not come to the office.
Special Thanks
CASA of Ventura County is grateful for the support of the Margie & Robert E. Peterson Foundation and the Rick & Marcie Sexauer Foundation.
