Integrated housing and therapeutic services will support former foster youth on their journey to independence
More than 200 government and community leaders, advocates, donors and volunteers packed Casa Pacifica’s gym on Friday, September 13, to celebrate the agency’s 30th anniversary and to mark the culmination of an innovative collaboration nearly three years in the making: the opening of its new supportive housing for transitional age youth.
“This is a monumental day for Casa Pacifica, the County of Ventura and for at-risk young adults in our community. This transformative housing is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community and collaboration,” said Shawna Morris, MPA, CEO of Casa Pacifica.
The new housing —the largest in Ventura County to address the needs of young adults, 18-25, who are transitioning from public and child welfare systems like foster care or juvenile justice or are at a high risk of homelessness — integrates stable housing with supportive services to help vulnerable young adults achieve their personal, educational and behavioral goals as they work towards self-sufficiency.
The new housing is the result of a partnership between Casa Pacifica, the County of Ventura and Project Homekey, a statewide investment initiative for affordable housing.
Casa Pacifica recently completed a six-month renovation of three of its residential cottages to create 27 units that accommodate both individuals and single parents and families, nearly tripling the number of transitional age youth the agency can support.
“Through stable housing and critical services, including case management, mental health services, educational support and job training, we are putting the most vulnerable in our community on track for healthy and fulfilling lives as adults,” Morris said.
Among the panel of distinguished speakers at the 30th anniversary celebration were Jacqui Irwin, Assemblymember, 42nd District; Viany Lopez, Ventura County Supervisor, District 5; Bill Kearney, former Casa Pacifica Board President and philanthropist; and Louis Buldain, trustee with the William and JoAnne Miller Charitable Trust. Dr. Sevet Johnson, CEO of Ventura County, served as master of ceremonies.
Bree Dervishian, a 22-year-old former foster youth, spoke to guests about her experience and her time with Casa Pacifica. “When I became homeless, Casa Pacifica was there for me. They are truly like family. My team helped steady me, support me and give me skills to start building the future that I wanted. I recently got my driver’s license and am now enrolled in online college courses. I hope to one day be at advocate for youth.”
After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees toured Casa Pacifica’s campus as well as the new housing units, witnessing firsthand the spaces where young adults will begin to rebuild their lives.
Designed with the well-being of its residents in mind, the semi-independent housing fosters a supportive, communal atmosphere reminiscent of a college dormitory. Each unit is fully furnished and features its own bedroom and bathroom along with shared kitchens, laundry, and common areas for socializing or relaxing. One unit is specifically designed for young adults with children, ensuring that even young parents have a safe place to call home.
Residents have access to on-site supportive services, such as case management, mental health services, life-skills training and education and employment opportunities, through Casa Pacifica’s Transitional Youth Services program.
Casa Pacifica will also provide transportation to help residents complete their education, find employment and attend medical and other health appointments.
“Our partnership with the County of Ventura and Project Homekey shows what’s possible when communities come together with compassion and expertise,” said Morris. “At Casa Pacifica, we have the heart to care deeply for these young adults, and we have the expertise to help them achieve lasting success. This is more than a housing project—it’s an investment in their future.”
Residents who will soon be moving into the new housing include a single father and his four-year-old daughter.
Support from the community ensures that every young adult who comes through Casa Pacifica’s doors has the resources, love, and opportunity they need to thrive. Together, the future is bright for the young adults that Casa Pacifica is privileged to serve.
About Casa Pacifica
Headquartered in Camarillo, California, Casa Pacifica is the largest non-profit provider of children’s and adolescent mental health services in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. It’s nationally accredited programs and services include residential treatment, therapeutic behavioral services, wraparound services, mobile crisis response, transitional youth services, school-based mental health services and foster care services along with a fully certified, diploma-granting Non-Public School for grades K-12. Casa Pacifica specializes in treating children and youth who struggle with complex mental health challenges including anxiety, depression and emotional dysregulation. Nearly 52,500 children have been admitted to one of its programs since its founding in 1994.
To learn more or to get involved, email info@casapacifica.org or call 805-366-4040.