District 2 Awards
The Great Navigators
Save the Date
May 7 | 5:30–7:30 PM
Hosted at Amgen in Thousand Oaks
Join Supervisor Jeff Gorell for an evening honoring exceptional individuals from District 2 who exemplify outstanding leadership, service, and courage in our community. This year all proceeds will support the Gold Coast Veteran’s Foundation Mobile Unit that supports homeless veterans.
Nominations are now open.
Help recognize a leader whose dedication and commitment have made a meaningful difference throughout Ventura County’s District 2.
Additional event details coming soon!
Supporting
PUrchase Tickets & Sponsor this Special Community Event today!
100% of proceeds support the Gold Coast Veterans Foundation Mobile Veterans Unit
District 2 Awards - Ticket & Sponsorship Form
District 2 Awards - Nomination Form
Spotlight
Sharon, an Air Force veteran in our community, was facing homelessness. Today, she is safely housed in a neighborhood she loves—right across from a beautiful park.
When she moved, her belongings had been left on a pallet in a driveway with no way to transport them. The Gold Coast Veterans Foundation Mobile Veterans Outreach Unit stepped in, making multiple trips to ensure everything was safely moved into her new home.
The support didn’t stop there. Sharon didn’t have a way to heat food and needed relief from the warm weather, so the Foundation also provided a microwave and an air conditioning unit to help make her new home comfortable and functional.
Stories like Sharon’s are exactly why this work matters. 100% of proceeds from the event will support the Gold Coast Veterans Foundation Mobile Veterans Outreach Unit, helping more veterans in our community get the support they deserve.
1st Annual Awards
First Annual District 2 Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards
Benefiting Mountain Fire Recovery
Thank You for Joining Us!
The First Annual District 2 Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards was a truly special evening of celebration and recognition. We were proud to honor the Great Navigators of our region. These leaders are exceptional individuals who have made a lasting impact in our community through their leadership, vision, and dedication.
A heartfelt thank you to our event sponsors, community partners, and all who made the evening possible—especially Amgen for their generous hospitality and support.
We are grateful to everyone who joined us in honoring these remarkable leaders while also supporting Mountain Fire Relief. We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come!
Although the event is over community members impacted by the Mountain Fire still need our support! Please consider donating to the Ventura County Community Foundation Disaster Resilience and Preparedness Fund. Be sure to note “Mountain Fire Relief D2 Awards” in the comments of your donation.
2025 Award Recipients
George Lange, Director,
Conejo Recreation and Park District (Ret.),
Conservation and Environmentalism Award
With over three decades of service, George Lange has preserved and expanded Ventura County’s treasured open spaces. His legacy includes the preservation of more than 500 acres of parkland, community landmarks, and a life dedicated to conservation and public access as a board member for both Conejo Recreation and Park District and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.
Andrea Gallagher, Executive Director, Senior Concerns, Community Leadership Award
Andrea Gallagher has transformed the lives of seniors and caregivers through her leadership and advocacy. Motivated by her personal experience, she has built a comprehensive network of services that support aging with dignity across the Conejo Valley.
Michelle Taranto, Science Educator and Student Leadership Advisor, Conejo Valley High School, Education Award
Michelle Taranto is a passionate educator and student advocate. She pioneered CVHS’s first Career and Technical Education Sound Engineering course and leads impactful student leadership programs that foster schoolwide engagement and growth.
Captain Bret Chambers, Ventura County Fire Department, Public Safety Award
Captain Chambers demonstrated extraordinary bravery during the Mountain Fire, continuing to protect lives and homes even as his own home was lost. His selflessness and courage exemplify the highest ideals of public service.
Danielle Borja, President & CEO, Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, Prosperity and Economy Award
Danielle Borja is a tireless champion for local business and regional prosperity. Under her leadership, the Chamber supports over 700 businesses, drives economic development, promotes tourism, and strengthens philanthropic efforts throughout District 2.
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