Nonprofit organizations throughout the region are experiencing significant financial, political and operational pressures. California Lutheran University’s Center for Nonprofit Leadership (CNL) and the Museum of Ventura County (MVC) have an innovative partnership solution: In June, CNL will relocate its offices to the Ventura-based museum’s new administrative office suite in Camarillo.

The move reflects the synergy between the two nonprofit organizations. It is also part of a donor-funded initiative that prioritizes keeping CNL in the heart of Ventura County.

“Our region’s nonprofit leaders are navigating complex pressures, and this partnership allows us to model the very adaptive practices we teach at the center,” said Dena Jenson, CNL director.

The center’s programmatic activities were located in Oxnard for nine years. Its practical and affordable professional workshops, trainings and leadership development programs will be held at accessible locations in Thousand Oaks, Camarillo and Ventura. In Santa Barbara County, the programs will be in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria. 

When Cal Lutheran leadership announced in August that satellite offices would relocate to the Thousand Oaks campus, Jenson had leadership’s support to explore new office and program space to keep the center conveniently located.

The museum relocated its administrative offices to 1297 Flynn Road, Camarillo, to advance its broader goals of amplifying its countywide presence and strengthening its service to the community.

Elena Brokaw, The Barbara Barnard Smith chief executive officer, recognized the museum’s alignment with CNL, and that they could both benefit by being in close proximity. Following the museum’s move in August, the MVC board of directors unanimously voted to share the museum’s Camarillo office with the CNL team at a minimal expense. 

“This partnership reflects the museum’s commitment to strengthening the civic fabric of Ventura County,” said Brokaw. “When we align our resources with organizations that share our values, we expand what is possible for everyone we serve.” 

“This move reinforces our belief that we go further and faster together,” added Jenson. “It’s a powerful reminder to nonprofit leaders that difficult decisions can also open the door to innovation, courage and community-centered solutions.” 

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About the Museum of Ventura County: The museum celebrates, preserves and interprets the county’s art, history and culture. With locations in Ventura and Santa Paula, MVC serves as a vital community gathering place committed to education, engagement and the preservation of our shared stories. Learn more at venturamuseum.org. 

About the California Lutheran University Center for Nonprofit Leadership: The center strengthens the nonprofit sector by providing accessible, high-quality leadership development, training, coaching, networking, and research for more than 650 nonprofit organizations annually across Ventura, Santa Barbara and the Central Coast. Its mission is to help nonprofit leaders do better at doing good. Learn more at callutheran.edu/cnl.