Our Story

Ventura County VOAD is part of the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), a coalition of 70+ of the nation’s most reputable national organizations (faith-based, community-based, and other non-profit organizations) and 56 State/Territory VOADs, which represent Local/Regional VOADs and hundreds of other member organizations throughout the country.

The coalition was founded over 50 years ago in response to the challenges many disaster organizations experienced following Hurricane Camille. Its goal was to address unnecessary duplication of efforts while other needs weren't met. Further, potential volunteers received only limited training, and access to information on services available to survivors during disasters was woefully inadequate.

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Since 1969, VOAD collaboratives have been recognized by emergency professionals in California and across the country.  At a VOAD, organizations come together pre-disaster to discuss their roles during disasters, identify potential disaster response gaps, and learn about best disaster relief and recovery practices. It provides resources equitably without duplicating efforts.  

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Ventura County's VOAD has repeatedly brought together key stakeholders to respond to disasters such as the Thomas and Woolsey Fires, COVID-19, and, more recently, two consecutive years of severe winter storms.

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Supported by staff and led by a rotating Executive Committee of passionate community leaders who volunteer to represent the region's leading nonprofits, the VC VOAD team has a wealth of experience in community building and disaster management. We remain committed to serving our county before, during, and after disaster.     

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