Since 1988, Community Conscience has provided local nonprofit organizations with rent-free offices housed in its 22,000-square-foot building on Hillcrest Blvd. Spearheaded by concerned citizens wanting to support the efforts of various nonprofits, Community Conscience currently houses 14 nonprofits, including the Conejo Free Clinic, Hospice of the Conejo, and Interface Children & Family Services, offering a myriad of services for residents in need. Each year, the organization celebrates and recognizes the efforts of those dedicated to community service at its annual Mardi Gras Ball.
“Everyone is invited to this exciting evening on February 28th at the Hyatt Regency Westlake! Adorn yourself in colorful, festive attire and be prepared to dance the night away to captivating music while fostering a strong sense of community spirit,” says Community Conscience’s Executive Director Robin Britt. “The 2026 Mardi Gras Ball promises to be an unforgettable night!” Guests are invited to kick off the evening with a champagne reception, accompanied by smooth jazz from the Chris Banta Trio; mingle in the silent auction; and enjoy a gourmet dinner and lively dancing to the tunes of Fifth Avenue Entertainment.
Highlights of the 33rd annual Mardi Gras Ball include silent and live auctions featuring incredible items. Funds raised contribute to the important cause of helping provide the community's most vulnerable residents with access to essential services at no cost through Community Conscience’s Human Services Center. Each year, these nonprofits serve more than 79,000 people.
Royal Recognition
Honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the Greater Conejo Valley through their actions, talents, dedication or financial support is another anticipated Mardi Gras tradition.
King of the Mardi Gras Ball Chuck Hufferis being honored for his extensive volunteer work, including service with the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks, Conejo Recreation & Park District (CRPD) Board, Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency (COSCA) Board, and Conejo Senior Volunteer Program’s Free Income Tax Program.
“His positive attitude, strong work ethic and commitment to serving others make him an exemplary volunteer and a valued member of the community,” says Britt.
This year’s Queen of the Mardi Gras Ball Jill Haney is recognized for her dedication to civic and philanthropic life, comprising volunteerism and leadership across business, healthcare, education and social services. Her current service includes work with the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, Greater Conejo Valley Community Foundation, Moorpark College Foundation, Rotary Club of Simi Sunset, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley, Center for Non‑Profit Leadership, and Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce. Past leadership roles include guiding organizations such as United Way of Ventura County, Ventura County Leadership Academy, Simi Valley Hospital Foundation, Adventist Health Simi Valley Hospital, Simi Valley Free Clinic, American Heart Association, Simi Sunset Foundation, and Simi Valley Education Foundation.
“Jill has consistently united people for the common good, leaving an indelible mark on the community fabric and earning admiration and respect from colleagues, volunteers and residents alike,” notes Britt.
For tickets and more information, call 805.494.3543 or visit CommunityConscience.org.
Easy Access to Community Services
Community Conscience’s agencies under one roof make it easier for people to access services.
· Community Action of Ventura County (CAVC): Helping people overcome poverty through advocacy, partnerships and services that promote dignity and self-sufficiency. Suite 205 A & B; 805.436.4000
· Conejo Free Clinic: Free medical, dental and legal services to uninsured and low-income individuals in Ventura County. Suite 102; 805.497.3575
· Conejo Health - Harm Reduction Vending Machine: The vending machine dispenses free of charge 24/7 NARCAN® (naloxone HCI) – Nasal Spray 4mg, Fentanyl (FEN) Test Strip, Dispose RX. 844.930.4434
· County of Ventura Human Services Agency: Thousand Oaks Satellite Office offers CalFresh Program (food stamps), Medi-Cal, Cal/WIN Program, Cal/Works, Employment Services, CPS, Foster Care, Family Reunification, Adoptions, Independent Living Program. Suite 200; 805.374.9006
· Creative Steps: A community-based day program for adults with moderate to severe developmental and other disabilities. Suite 207; 818.940.8286.
· Gold Coast Veterans Foundation: Education. Employment. Empowerment. Personalized, immediate help
for veterans in need. Suite 208; 805.482.6550
· Holy Family Services: Provides counseling to birth parents with unplanned pregnancies; family and individual counseling, foster care. Complete adoption services available. Suite 201; 805.464.2367
· Hospice of the Conejo: A volunteer hospice providing in-home assistance for the terminally ill and their families through professional case management and volunteer support. Bereavement group support for all ages. Suite 204; 805.495.2145
· Interface Children & Family Services: Provides 24 distinct programs, including mental health and trauma treatment, domestic violence and child abuse prevention, youth crisis intervention, human trafficking, reentry services and 2-1-1 information and referral. Suite 175; 805.485.6114
· MANDO Youth Development Group: Mentors. Against. Negative. Decisions. Outreach. Provides daily direct services to vulnerable teens. Suite 150
· National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) Ventura County: Provides advocacy, support, education and resources for individuals and families affected by mental illness, inclusive of all, without discrimination and stigma. Suite 105; 805.641.2426
· Ohana Health: Compassionate Christian ministry offering life-affirming services to women, men and their families who are faced with unexpected pregnancies. Suite 130; 805.373.1222
· Senior Alliance For Empowerment (SAFE): Dedicated to informing and assisting very low income, disabled and veteran seniors, while promoting increased independence and improved quality of life. Suite 201; 805.494.0087
· Villa Esperanza Services: Provides love, care and hope for individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. Suite 206; 805.446.1939
Community Conscience is located at 80 E. Hillcrest Dr., Suite 110 in Thousand Oaks.