As we step into a new season of growth and progress, we’re excited to share the latest updates from Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation. In this issue, you’ll hear from CEO Victoria Brady as she reflects on her first 90 days in leadership, celebrate major milestones on our newest developments—Dolores Huerta Gardens and Village Senior Apartments—and meet the dedicated Resident and Community Services Team working to uplift lives across our communities.

We’re also proud to welcome new Board Member Alicia Morales and spotlight Board Vice President Alfredo Martinez’s inspiring journey on the GETT Podcast. Thank you for being part of our mission to build not just housing, but opportunity, connection, and lasting impact.

Warmly, 

Victoria Brady
Chief Executive Officer 

As I reflect on my first 90 days as CEO of Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation, I am filled with profound gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. 

While this is a new chapter in my leadership journey, it’s one that has been 15 years in the making. I’ve had the privilege of serving Cabrillo EDC in a variety of roles over the past decade and a half, and each year has helped prepare me for this moment. The journey has been shaped by the countless moments I’ve witnessed as our our mission comes to life—from groundbreaking ceremonies to resident celebrations—and I’ve learned from extraordinary colleagues, community members, and partners who share our unwavering commitment to housing justice.

Stepping into this role has been both humbling and invigorating. Since January, I have prioritized listening deeply, collaborating thoughtfully, and building upon the strong, enduring legacy Cabrillo has cultivated over its 44-year history. Conversations with staff, community leaders, and partners across Ventura and Santa Barbara counties have reminded me of the transformative power of community connection. These exchanges have grounded me, inspired me, and reaffirmed the immense opportunity before us.

In these first three months, together we have:

I am also thrilled to announce significant progress on two transformative projects that embody our mission and vision. Dolores Huerta Gardens in Oxnard will create new affordable homes, honoring one of our most cherished champions for justice. This development will offer not just housing, but a foundation of opportunity—pairing high-quality homes with meaningful Resident Services that uplift lives.

Meanwhile, Village Senior Apartments in Buellton marks a vital step forward in affordable housing for seniors in Santa Barbara County. Since breaking ground in August 2024, this project remains on track for completion in November 2025, delivering much-needed housing to the heart of our community.

These developments exemplify Cabrillo’s unwavering dedication to building vibrant neighborhoods that provide more than shelter—they foster opportunity, connection, and pride.

At the same time, the challenges of addressing housing affordability amidst ever-evolving priorities and resource constraints cannot be overlooked. Shifting priorities and funding constraints continue to place significant pressure on the very communities we serve. Despite these obstacles, we remain resolute in our mission—to advocate for housing justice and ensure that everyone has a place to call home. Our work has never been more critical, nor our determination more steadfast.

As I look back on these first 90 days, I am deeply inspired by the resilience of our residents, the passion of our staff, and the power of partnerships that fuel our shared purpose. I step into the next chapter of this journey with humility, gratitude, and a steadfast commitment to creating communities where everyone feels supported, valued, and proud to call home.

Thank you for being an indispensable part of this mission. Together, we are building brighter futures, one home—and one connection—at a time.

With appreciation,

Victoria Brady
Chief Executive Officer

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation is proud to share progress on Village Senior Apartments, our newest affordable housing development in Buellton. Since breaking ground in August 2024, the two-story community is taking shape and remains on schedule for completion by November 2025. Once finished, it will provide 50 safe and supportive homes for seniors—including veterans and formerly homeless senior veterans.

This development, created in partnership with Y&M Architects, McCarthy Companies, and S.L. Leonard & Associates, is about more than housing—it’s about restoring dignity and offering a fresh start.

Watch the drone footage below to see how construction is progressing!

At Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), affordable housing is just the beginning. Our Resident and Community Services (RCS) team plays a vital role in ensuring residents not only have a place to live but also the support, resources, and community needed to thrive.

Under the leadership of Bianca Farmer, Director of Resident and Community Services, the department has grown into a dynamic support system for residents across our properties. Since joining CEDC in May 2024, Bianca has infused the department with energy, compassion, and vision. 

The team that supports Cabrillo EDC residents is comprised of two Case Managers and a Resident & Community Services Coordinator, each bringing unique strengths to the team.

Lizbeth C. Avila, Case Manager, joined in February 2025 with a passion for promoting inclusive community development. “I truly believe in the power of collaboration,” Lizbeth says. She works one-on-one with residents to identify goals and provide access to employment, education, and financial resources. Through consistent engagement, Lizbeth has built trust and helped residents feel heard and empowered.

Uel Jefferson, also a Case Manager, brings lived experience and empathy to his role. “Having experienced my own challenges as a youth, I find it deeply fulfilling to give back and support others in their journey,” he shares. Whether it’s connecting a resident with life-changing medical resources or simply offering a listening ear, Uel’s dedication is already making a strong impact.

Cindy Pena, the Resident & Community Services Coordinator, has been a bridge between properties and programming since joining in September 2024. “Each property is so different, yet they all hold the same feeling of familiarity and community,” she reflects. Cindy listens closely to residents’ needs and uses their feedback to organize resource fairs, coordinate services, and ensure their voices shape future programming.

Together, this team forms the heart of CEDC’s resident support system. Whether it’s through one-on-one case management, community events, or resource coordination, the RCS department works tirelessly to build stability, foster empowerment, and celebrate the unique strengths of every resident.

As CEDC continues to grow, the RCS team remains grounded in our mission—because housing is just the foundation. It’s what we build on top of it, together, that creates lasting change.

As she approaches her one-year anniversary with Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation, Bianca Farmer reflects on a year filled with purpose, pride, and deep connection. Since joining CEDC in May 2024, Bianca has brought heart and leadership to her role as Director of Resident and Community Services, helping to strengthen the support systems that make CEDC more than just a housing provider.

“The draw to CEDC extended far beyond the beautiful and thoughtfully designed properties within our portfolio,” Bianca shares. “What truly inspired me was the opportunity to be part of an empowering initiative rooted in the community. CEDC’s mission-driven work is about changing lives, fostering stability, and uplifting entire households.”

In her role, Bianca oversees the full scope of resident services—from personalized one-on-one case management to vibrant community engagement programming. Her team includes skilled Case Managers who help residents set goals, access resources, and navigate life’s challenges, as well as a dedicated Resident Services Coordinator who curates programs, workshops, and events that reflect the evolving needs of the communities CEDC serves.

“It truly takes a village,” Bianca says. “The commitment of our property management team and the passion of our community partners make this work possible.”

Bianca is proud of the compassion, professionalism, and care the Resident and Community Services (RCS) team brings to each interaction. “Every day in this role reminds me that affordable housing is not just about buildings—it’s about people, stories, and ensuring everyone has a place they can truly call home.”

CEDC is grateful for Bianca’s leadership and the impact she continues to make through thoughtful, people-centered service.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation is thrilled to welcome Alicia Morales as the newest member of our Board of Directors. Alicia brings a wealth of experience in housing and homelessness services, with a strong background in both program management and systems coordination.

Currently serving as a Management Analyst with the Ventura County Continuum of Care, Alicia plays a key role in supporting the Coordinated Entry System and state homelessness funding, while also leading the “Ventura County Veteran One Team” committee focused on ending veteran homelessness.

Her career includes impactful leadership roles with the County of Ventura, the Human Services Agency, and the Salvation Army in Ventura, where she managed transitional housing, rapid re-housing, and street outreach programs. Alicia holds a Master’s in Forensic Social Work from Cal State LA and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from CSU Channel Islands.

We are honored to have her join the Cabrillo EDC board and excited for the expertise and passion she brings to our mission. Welcome, Alicia! Learn about all of Cabrillo EDC’s Board Members here. 

CEDC is excited to announce that pre-applications are now being accepted for Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments, our newest affordable housing community in Ventura County. Named in honor of activist and organizer Dolores Huerta, this 58-unit development will provide safe, sustainable housing for farmworkers and homeless veterans—while building a vibrant, empowered community. Apply here. 

Alfredo Martinez, Vice President of the Cabrillo EDC Board of Directors, is a passionate advocate for education, equity, and opportunity. Featured on Episode 12 of the GETT Podcast, Alfredo shares his powerful personal journey and commitment to creating pathways for success in underserved communities. His story highlights the impact of mentorship, resilience, and leadership in driving meaningful change. You can listen to the podcast here.