United Way of Ventura County Celebrates 80 Years of Service and Impact Local nonprofit reflects on eight decades of lifting lives across Ventura County

Ventura, CA - July 8, 2025 - United Way of Ventura County (UWVC), one of California’s most respected and enduring nonprofit organizations, is proud to celebrate its 80th anniversary this year. Since opening its doors in April 1945, UWVC has become a driving force for local impact — helping tens of thousands of residents rise above poverty, gain access to housing, education, and health services, and build better futures. To mark this milestone, UWVC will host a special 80th Anniversary edition of its annual Spirit Awards Gala on Friday, August 23, recognizing the people and partnerships that have fueled its mission — and inviting the community to shape its future.

“For 80 years, United Way of Ventura County has been a trusted ally for individuals and families in need,” said Mitchel Sloan, President & CEO of UWVC. “But our success has always depended on the community’s belief in something larger than themselves — the idea that we rise by lifting others.”

From emergency food drives in the 1950s to today's cutting-edge housing, education, health, and financial service initiatives, UWVC’s legacy is built on adapting to Ventura County’s evolving needs. Over the decades, its work has touched nearly every zip code — from helping veterans find stable housing to supporting single mothers pursuing college degrees through its Women United initiative.

One such story is “Maria,” a fictional composite drawn from real UWVC program participants. A mother of two who fled domestic violence, Maria found herself living in her car — until a UWVC partner connected her with emergency shelter, childcare, and a pathway to permanent housing. Today, she’s employed, enrolled in school, and paying it forward as a peer mentor. “United Way didn’t just give me resources — they gave me back my dignity,” her story echoes. “They believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”

A Legacy of Trust, A Future of Action
United Way’s model — funding proven programs, convening partners, and driving systems change — remains as relevant today as it was in 1945. In the past five years alone, UWVC has:

• Secured housing for over 1,100 vulnerable individuals through the Landlord Engagement Program (LEP) and other housing initiatives
• Prepared 7,435 tax returns for a total of $7,038,154 in refunds
• Rallied donors and volunteers for wildfire recovery, pandemic response, and economic relief
• Provided dental screenings for 5,375 students
• Stuffed new backpacks full of school supplies for over 6,000 homeless kids
• Provided over 60 financial awards for single mothers pursuing higher education/professional training

As it celebrates 80 years, UWVC is not slowing down. The organization is calling on local residents and businesses to join in building what comes next. “This isn’t just a celebration of our past,” said Sloan, “It’s a call to action for our future.”

How You Can Help
Tickets and sponsorships for the Spirit Awards Gala on August 23 are now available.
To support the mission of United Way of Ventura County — or make a donation in honor of the 80th anniversary — visit United Way VC - 80 Years of Impact 
  About United Way of Ventura County
Since 1945, United Way of Ventura County has advanced the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. United Way identifies the root causes of poverty and works strategically to solve them by building alliances across all sectors, funding targeted programs, and advocating for change. When we work together in common purpose, we live united. For more information about United Way of Ventura County, visit www.vcunitedway.org.