Fun at the YMCA

The Pacific Coast Business Times recently came out with their “Who’s Who in Nonprofits & Foundations” and it’s not suprising that so many of our alumni were included on this list. Congratulations to Margo Byrne (cohort XIII) with the Channel Islands YMCA, Yvonne Guiterrez (cohort VIII) with El Concilio Family Services, Tammie Helmuth (cohort XXVIII)…

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VCLA – Fountain of Knowledge & Inspiration

Julius Sokenu, VCLA Cohort XXVI  Interim President, Moorpark College Ventura County Community College District Prior to Friday, November 13, I did not know what it felt like to hold a drum between my legs and place my palms in a V to drum. Now I have proof that drumming is good for the heart and elevates…

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Whose Eyes Are You Seeing VC Through?

Tracy McAulay, VCLA Cohort XXVI  Management Analyst County of Ventura Like the first two VCLA sessions, session 3 was a whirlwind. We delved into the economy, transportation and the arts – no small task for a single day. All of the presentations were fascinating, and I could write pages. As I reflected on the day, I…

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Virtually the Best – Reflection

Jennifer Duston, VCLA Cohort XXVI  Client Partner Franklin Covey As John Quincy Adams so eloquently stated, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, & become more, you are a leader.” I couldn’t choose words more appropriate to describe Cohort XXVI and our day of learning with community leaders as a part…

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All Barks & No Bites

Caitlin Brooks VCLA Cohort XXVI Program Manager/Transportation Planning Ventura County Transportation Commission If you don’t like dogs or puns, this recap of VCLA Cohort XXVI Session 2 is going to be ruff. Please furgive me and I promise by the time you’ve finished reading you won’t be hounding anyone for more.  Our second session (but…

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Alumni Reflection – Kevin Brannon, Cohort XX

Lately, as the success of the Reel Guppy Outdoors program has surged, I have taken some time to reflect upon the people and events that have gotten us here. An important part of my success with this program has been the lessons I took away from my participation in the Ventura County Leadership Academy.  What…

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