Transformative Journeys: One Family's Path to Healing | | | | | |
At just 30 years old, a courageous single mother of three made the difficult decision to flee domestic violence. With no stable income and no support system, she and her children were left moving between motels, living in constant fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. Financial hardship and lack of child care weighed heavily on her, making it nearly impossible to move forward. When she connected with Valley Oasis through our Families Homeless Services, hope returned. She received access to safe housing, mental health resources, legal support, employment services, clothing, furniture, and a case manager who stood by her every step of the way. With support, she learned to budget, created a strong resume, secured full-time employment, and watched her children begin to thrive in ways she once thought were out of reach. She no longer lives in fear. Instead, she’s looking ahead to continuing her education and advancing in her career.
“My life has changed for the better. I can finally give my children the safe, stable home they deserve. Valley Oasis gave me a second chance at life—and I’m forever grateful.”
-Participant
*Shared with permission. Names and identifying details have been excluded to protect the survivor’s privacy.
| | | Celebrating the Retirement of Joy Applin | | | |
This month, we honor and celebrate the retirement of Joy Applin, who has faithfully served our Agency for more than a decade. Joy’s career has been marked by compassion, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence as well as individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Her work has touched countless lives, bringing hope, stability, and encouragement to those facing some of life’s most difficult challenges.
True to her humble spirit, Joy requested a quiet transition without formal goodbyes. Yet, her impact is far too great to go unrecognized. The dedication and heart she brought to her work have left a lasting legacy, not only in the lives of the participants she served but also among her colleagues who were fortunate enough to work alongside her. While we will deeply miss her presence, we are filled with gratitude for her many contributions and extend our heartfelt wishes for a fulfilling and joyful retirement.
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August Online Auction
Last Chance to Bid with Purpose!
| Our online auction is coming to a close. Don’t miss your final chance to bid on exciting items like Rosie Rivera's Exclusive Bundle (includes Rosie Rivera's blouse worn on her album cover, an autographed photograph, and a copy of her memoir My Broken Pieces), Corporate Icon one-on-one professional growth session, and a BARK subscription box! Every dollar raised supports the life-changing programs and services we provide to individuals and families in need across the Antelope Valley.Bidding starts Friday 8/29/2025 at 8 AM, so get your bids in before time runs out! | | Valley Oasis in the Community | | | |
📸 Pictured: SPA 1 Domestic Violence Regional Coordinator, Marlen Tirado (middle).
Marlen Tirado and the Domestic Violence Regional Coordinators (DVRCs) joined the 2025 Domestic Violence Homeless Services Summit, Surviving to Thriving: Sustaining our Autonomy & Flourishing in our Collective Wellness. They led a training on Adapting to the Evolving Needs of Survivors While Navigating Homelessness, sharing survivor-centered strategies and practical approaches to help individuals move from crisis to stability.
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📸 Pictured: DV Services: Valerie Pratt, Zakiyyah Grant, Nancy Tapia; CalWORKs Outreach Team - Bricia Aguilar and Gloria Nava; Bridge Housing Team - Xitlali Cervantes, Norma Meneses, Tyler Muro, and Connie Murray.
We were proud to provide a resource table at the Family Fun Day Celebration, where families enjoyed games, snacks, and activities while connecting with valuable resources in a warm, welcoming environment. The day was full of joy, meaningful connections, and appreciation from all who attended.
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📸 Pictured: SARS Community Education Coordinator, Ariana Ibarra, and SARS Response Advocate, Christy Joy Angeles.
Our Sexual Assault Response Services Team welcomed community members to Cookies and Conversation, a warm gathering where guests enjoyed sweet treats, met our team, and learned about the ways we support survivors while fostering healing and hope in our community.
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📸 Pictured: SPA 1 Faith-Based Coordinator, Dominic Montgomery.
Our Regional Coordination Team hosted From Crisis to Stability, a community workshop focused on the connection between domestic violence and housing instability. A panel of faith-based and domestic violence leaders led an engaging conversation on how we can better support survivors in our community, sparking dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning.
| | | SPA 1's 2-Day Community Engagement Workshop | | | |
Change Well is supporting LA County’s new Homeless Department in its community outreach and engagement efforts and is hosting a 2-day Community Engagement Workshop on September 8–9. This is a unique opportunity for community partners to contribute to shaping policies and programs that directly impact our communities.
We invite agencies to nominate team members to attend. Participants will:
- Engage in collaborative discussions with county and community leaders
- Provide insights to help inform and design the structure, programs, and contracting and payment processes
- Co-design a sustainable feedback mechanism
Nomination Details:
- Nominate yourself and your team by clicking the button below
Your staff’s voice matters—help ensure your agency is represented in this important process.
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Stay Connected with Us by Text!
We're excited to announce that Valley Oasis is now offering SMS text updates! Sign up today to receive quick reminders about upcoming events, fundraisers, and important news - right to your phone.
👉 Click here to sign up for SMS alerts
Don't miss a moment - join our text list and stay connected with our mission in real time!
| | Upcoming Valley Oasis Events | | | | |
