Paul Paulin Shares the Vision and Value
Of Ventura County City Center
 
On a section of Thompson Boulevard, near downtown Ventura, sits a nondescript building that began its life as a motel. Years of decay and the occasional criminal activity took their toll on the structure, but today it serves as a testament to the power of positive action. It is the Ventura County City Center, a program that provides transitional housing for the County's homeless population. At our meeting on Monday, February 27, Board member Paul Paulin gave members of Rotary Ventura South an inspiring overview of the Center's goals and accomplishments.
 
"Our mission," said Paul, "is to give people a hand up, not a handout." He explained that the Center offers temporary housing to homeless men, women, and children with a high level of accountability and the goal of transitioning residents into long-term housing within one year. Clients contribute 30 percent of their income (whatever that may be) for housing and services, and 20 percent of their income is saved to  begin the process of becoming financially stable.
 
Paul noted that the Center currently houses 42 residents. "When they leave us, adult residents have a car, a job, a bank account, and an apartment. During their stay with us, they have a personal mentor to help them with life issues including finance, job hunting, and schooling." He also explained that there are strict regulations for program participants, among which is the requirement to have been clean and sober for six months, and to remain so. "One mistake and they're out," said Paul.
 
The Center receives no permanent financial support, relying on donations from churches, businesses, organizations, and individuals. "A big part of my job," Paul said, "is helping to find $750,000 a year, which is our operating budget." He noted that the City Center relies heavily on volunteer effort, and it has become a model program for organizations in other cities. Summing up the Center's mission, he said, "We encourage self-sufficiency."
 
For more information about the City Center of Ventura County, visit thecitycenter.org.