Conejo Community Outreach epitomizes the caring spirit and generosity of area residents. Founded in 2015 by a few local ladies, the nonprofit provides more than 25,000 diapers every month to local families in need.
“We surpassed 1 million diapers (double that in wipes) in August 2023,” says Board Vice President Jess Weihe.
The 100% volunteer-run board is headed by Board President Andrea Yusim, whose desire to serve families in need with a Thanksgiving event sparked the idea for the nonprofit. Joining with local moms with online platforms—Kinsie Flame (Moms of Conejo Valley) and Jess (Anonymous Mommy), as well as Rena Robles—the group formed the nonprofit, Conejo Community Outreach, and hosted annual Thanksgiving events through 2020.
“In 2018, we launched the diaper bank after wanting to provide a year-round service and noting that there weren't many organizations in the county that provide dedicated diaper assistance,” explains Jess, noting the community effort involved.
The diaper bank depends on local volunteers to fill weekly diaper orders.
“We are grateful for the many organizations, schools, troops and clubs that have hosted diaper drives on our behalf and to the businesses that provide sponsorship support!” adds Jess.
In addition to community support and donations, including business sponsorships, Conejo Community Outreach has received funding from the County of Ventura, Jane Seymour's Open Hearts Foundation, the Samuelsson Foundation, the City of Thousand Oaks, Sherwood Cares and the Chamber of Commerce. They were named the 2022 Nonprofit of the Year for the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Visit ConejoCommunityOutreach.com to learn more.
Conejo Community Outreach partners with and supports families through CVUSD, Safe Passage Youth Foundation, Amigo Baby, Ventura County Public Health, First Five, Harbor House and beyond. CCO's board members include Conejo Valley influencers, board members of the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, business professionals, 40 Under Forty recipients, business owners and parent leaders.
Board Members:
Andrea Yusim, President
Jess Weihe, Vice President
Rena Robles, Secretary
Kinsie Flame, Community Relations
Leanne Tapper, Fundraising
Sara Bartos, Treasurer