second annual event huge success!
In July, at the second annual Voices of Hope Gala, the Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation (VCFJC Foundation) successfully concluded our 2024 fundraising campaign ahead of August's Camp HOPE, raising nearly $275,000. During the Gala, held at the scenic Zachari Dunes, three local honorees were awarded for their contributions to family justice in Ventura County - Hero of the Year, Co-Director of Anacapa Surgery Associates, Dr. Thomas K. Duncan; Champion of the Year, Ventura County Superior Court Judge, the honorable Brian J. Back (ret.); and Community Advocate of the Year, Ventura County Community Foundation. In a particularly memorable moment, survivors of family violence and trauma shared their stories od resilience in their own voices, an emotional and inspiring reminder of hope for an audience that included local leaders, elected officials, and community changemakers. Scroll down to view our event photo gallery!
The funds raised provide support and resources for all seeking justice for children and families impacted by violence and trauma in Ventura County, including sponsorships for Ventura County children to attend the Camp HOPE America - Ventura County (Camp HOPE) program, an evidence-based campaign and mentoring program for children exposed to trauma. Other resources provided by the VCFJC Foundation to survivors experiencing trauma after violent crimes include clothing, toys, backpacks, books, medical equipment, wheelchair and mobility aids, cell phones, gift cards, and other essentials.
"Our goal is to support survivors as they navigate what, for many, can be the most difficult moment of their lives," said Vanessa Melendrez Jimenez, Executive Development Officer of Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation. "The funds raised will go far to secure essential items for survivors while also ensuring that we can provide even more children the opportunity to attend Camp HOPE." The cost to send one child to Camp Hope is approximately $2,000.
The funds raised provide support and resources for all seeking justice for children and families impacted by violence and trauma in Ventura County, including sponsorships for Ventura County children to attend the Camp HOPE America - Ventura County (Camp HOPE) program, an evidence-based campaign and mentoring program for children exposed to trauma. Other resources provided by the VCFJC Foundation to survivors experiencing trauma after violent crimes include clothing, toys, backpacks, books, medical equipment, wheelchair and mobility aids, cell phones, gift cards, and other essentials.
"Our goal is to support survivors as they navigate what, for many, can be the most difficult moment of their lives," said Vanessa Melendrez Jimenez, Executive Development Officer of Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation. "The funds raised will go far to secure essential items for survivors while also ensuring that we can provide even more children the opportunity to attend Camp HOPE." The cost to send one child to Camp Hope is approximately $2,000.