In honor of National Volunteer Month, we proudly celebrate the incredible impact volunteers have had on Casa Pacifica since our founding thirty years ago. Volunteers have been the driving force behind much of our success, providing the time, energy, and heart that make our work possible.
From the very beginning, volunteers have played a vital role in supporting our mission to nurture the mental health and well-being of at-risk children, young adults and families. Whether through music education, campus beautification, or serving on committees, their contributions have shaped Casa Pacifica into what it is today.
Edlin Andrade – Youth Career Development Volunteer
Edlin Andrade provides “Work to Lead” workshops to the young adults in Casa Pacifica’s Transitional Youth Services (TYS) program. The “Work to Lead” workshops provide youth with career planning, resume review, interview preparation and much more to help young people on their journey to enter the workforce.
Reflecting on her volunteer experience, Edlin shared: “I enjoy the opportunity to see and hear about the youths’ career planning through the Work to Lead Workshops. The support and vision that Christan Schuyler and the TYS Team have aligns with my passion for career development and coaching. I’m extremely grateful to be a Youth Career Development Volunteer! I’m looking forward to seeing TYS youth hit their career goals and continue to build a sustainable lifestyle.”
Beyond hands-on support, volunteers also play a vital role in our fundraising efforts, helping organize and staff our community events, including the annual Top Chef Yummie Dinner, the Angels Wine, Food & Brew Festival, the Spotlight on Style Fashion Show and more. These events raise crucial funds that directly benefit Casa Pacifica’s programs and initiatives, but they would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteers.
Steve Wiley – Non-Public School Volunteer, Musicians on a Mission
Steve Wiley has been sharing his love for music with students at our Non-Public School since 2018. Through his dedicated, weekly guitar instruction, Steve inspires and empowers young learners—one chord at a time. Steve volunteers with Musicians on a Mission California, a volunteer-run organization that provides youth in need with access to music through lessons, mentorship, performance opportunities, and instrument “gift-aways.”
When asked about his experience volunteering with Casa Pacifica, Steve said,
“As a volunteer with Casa Pacifica’s music program, teaching guitar has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I am continually impressed by the students’ dedication and the speed at which they progress when they apply themselves. Witnessing their growth and passion for music makes this work truly fulfilling.”
Terri Parks- Angels Board Member and Volunteer
Terri Parks has been involved with Casa Pacifica for almost twenty years.
During her time, she has served on the board of the Casa Pacifica Angels and has provided countless hours of vital volunteer support for fundraising events as well as on-campus events for the children and youth of Casa Pacifica.
When asked about her time volunteering with Casa Pacifica Terri said:
“Over the years, I’ve witnessed countless Casa Pacifica youth transform their lives—overcoming incredible obstacles to become thriving, successful adults. What inspires me most is how Casa Pacifica continually adapts its services to meet the ever-changing needs of our community, always putting the well-being of children first. The staff’s dedication and compassion ensure that every child feels safe, supported and cared for. I’m grateful to play even a small role in the incredible work Casa Pacifica does every day.”
Charles Medina- Recreational Therapy Volunteer
Charles Medina volunteers with Casa Pacifica’s Recreational Therapy team providing weekend activity support as well as assisting in Casa Pacifica’s on-campus Cloud 9 store – a place where children and youth can spend their Cloud 9 ‘bucks’ earned through positive participation in cottage, classroom, and on-campus activities.
Reflecting on his time with the organization, Charles shares, “My experience with Casa Pacifica has only been positive. I look forward to it every week. It is very rewarding and good for my soul. I have been doing volunteer work for decades now, and Casa Pacifica has been one of my best experiences.”
Last year, a Casa Pacifica student became involved with the work program at my business. From there, I learned more about the organization, and when I read the ad for volunteers, I felt that it was right up my alley. My favorite part of working with the youth and kids is that it gives me energy and makes me feel young again. I hope to stay with Casa Pacifica for many years to come and become more involved in the organization.”
We are so grateful for the dedication of our volunteers and look forward to continuing this journey together, creating lasting change and opportunities for the children and families who rely on Casa Pacifica.
Want to make a difference?
Join us in supporting Casa Pacifica’s mission by volunteering! Learn more or sign up to volunteer on our website at casapacifica.org/become-a-volunteer or email volunteer@casapacifica.org.
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.