Relief Project
GOLD COAST
WELLNESS WEEKENDS
🌊 Silver Strand & Sportfishing 2025 🎣
Event Wrap-Up & Thank You!
Presented by Ventura4Veterans Relief Project
📍 Silver Strand Beach, Oxnard, CA
📅 October 23 – 25, 2025
What an incredible weekend! 🙌 Our recent Ventura4Veterans event was filled with camaraderie, inspiration, and purpose — and a reminder of how powerful it is when veterans, first responders, and community members come together.
We spent a fantastic day fishing out of Santa Barbara Landing, and every single participant caught their limit! Everyone went home with fish, smiles, and a renewed sense of connection. We were also honored to host three outstanding guest speakers who generously donated their time and energy:
👨⚕️ One of our speakers, a physician, shared a powerful message about the importance of becoming your own health advocate — reminding us that while doctors do their best, it’s ultimately up to each of us to take charge of our own health journey.
🏍️ Another speaker — one-legged motorcycle racer and lifelong competitive skateboarder — inspired everyone with his story of resilience and how he’s overcome major health challenges with determination, courage, and faith in himself.
✈️ Our F-22 Raptor pilot and instructor spoke about self-advocacy for one’s healthcare journey, discipline, and the mindset needed to achieve excellence — both in Aviation and life
🍽️ Our second night’s tri-tip dinner was prepared by Chef Jeff, who generously donated his time to make sure everyone was well-fed and happy.
A huge thank you to all our sponsors, guest speakers, and volunteers for helping make this vision a reality. Your support gives us hope and reminds us that there’s still a lot of good out there. Together, we’re building a community where veterans and first responders can stay active, connected, and supported — because we all do better when we look out for one another.
We invite you to visit our website for updates and announcements on upcoming events as we look ahead to an inspiring 2026.
2023 INAUGURAL PROGRAM
In September 2023, Ventura 4 Veterans Relief Project hosted a comprehensive Wellness Day that combined engaging activities with informative health sessions for veterans and first responders. We started out the morning with Yoga at 'Olokoy Beach Park in Oxnard, followed by a tour of the Coast Guard Air Station Ventura, and finally a visit to the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation in Santa Paula.
Yoga at ‘Olokoy Beach Park, Oxnard:
In the morning, participants gathered at ‘Olokoy Beach Park for a yoga session. The session focused on mindfulness and relaxation, helping attendees connect with their bodies and reduce stress through guided poses and breathing exercises. The serene beach setting provided a calming backdrop, further enhancing the therapeutic benefits of the practice.
Coast Guard Air Station, Ventura:
Participants began the day with an exclusive tour of the Coast Guard Air Station Ventura. During the visit, veterans and first responders learned about the various missions of the Coast Guard, including search and rescue, law enforcement, and environmental protection. The Coast Guard team demonstrated the specialized equipment they use and discussed the importance of mental resilience and overall well-being in performing these demanding tasks.
National Disaster Search Dog Foundation, Santa Paula:
The group then traveled to the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation in Santa Paula. SDF trainers explained their mission to prepare dogs and handlers for disaster response, highlighting the critical role they play in locating survivors during emergencies. They shared insights into maintaining peak physical and mental condition, emphasizing the importance of readiness and health, both for the dogs and their handlers.
Wellness Day Content:
Throughout the day, a series of health talks were provided, covering important topics such as coronary artery disease, lung cancer, and the concept of sense of self. These discussions offered valuable information on recognizing symptoms, prevention strategies, and maintaining overall health. The talk on sense of self encouraged participants to explore their identities and experiences, fostering self-awareness and emotional well-being.
Purpose and Impact:
Wellness Day activities offer participants a holistic experience with blended outdoor activities and health-focused discussions. By incorporating yoga and addressing key health issues, the event promoted both physical and mental well-being. Through these activities, Ventura4Veterans Relief Project aimed to empower veterans and first responders to take an active role in their health and wellness, encouraging them to become better health advocates for themselves and in turn live happy, healthier lives.
Future event dates to be announced soon!
Our women’s program will begin in Spring 2027.
