Southeast Ventura County 'Y' receives a grant

The Southeast Ventura County YMCA, serving the Conejo Valley, Simi Valley and Moorpark, received $70,000 from the Wood-Claeyssens Foundation based in Santa Barbara, which awards grants to nonprofit organizations in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

The Miller Family YMCA in Dos Vientos Ranch in Newbury Park received $20,000 of the grant. Over a period of five years, the foundation has given $100,000 towards construction costs of the 18,000-square-foot facility, which opened last year.

The Simi Valley YMCA received $25,000 for renovation needs at its 11 child care sites and one preschool. Funding will be used to replace carpeting and ramps and to purchase educational supplies and portable shades for summer camp programs.

The Conejo Valley YMCA received $25,000 for the installation of two modular buildings at the YMCA site. The portables will provide more space for health and wellness programs.

"The Wood-Claeyssens Foundation has been a longtime YMCA supporter," said Southeast Ventura County YMCA president and CEO Rick Politte. "We are honored that it continues to play such a vital role in our work."