THE S UEEZE -
T A L E S O F T R I U M P H :
C U S T O M E R S U C C E S S S T O R I E S
DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Every time I hear a success story from one of our programs a family finding stable housing, a child discovering a love for reading, a senior accessing new technology I’m reminded of how powerful OC Community Resources truly is. They may seem like individual programs on the surface, but together, we function much like a Swiss Army knife; each tool serving a specific purpose, yet all folded into one compact, accessible solution designed to meet the varied needs of our community.
Think of OC Parks as the blade. These open spaces cut through isolation, bringing people together for wellness, play, and connection.
OC Housing and Community Development is the screwdriver, powerfully building the foundation for stability, allowing individuals and families to tighten the bolts of their future with safety and dignity.
OC Community Services is the pair of scissors, efficient and precise, helping people trim through life’s challenges with access to technology, job training, veterans service support, and more.
OC Libraries is the magnifying glass opening minds and expanding access to learning, technology, and creativity for every age and background.
And lastly OC Animal Care is the rescue hook stepping in during critical moments to provide care, shelter, and second chances for animals in need.
Together, our programs form a unified toolset to connect people with resources.
Dylan Wright OCCR Director
“This is Athena (formally Lara) who we adopted from OC Animal Care in December. In just 4 months she’s gone from a shy, fearful little girl to loving her 4+ mile walks, going to the park daily, learning sit and shake, and kicking back in her home. She’s so incredibly sweet and loving to us, and has brought us so much joy in these last few months. She is proof that with patience, perseverance, and love, you can really enjoy the benefits of welcoming a shelter dog into your life Thank you to the team at OC Animal Care for giving us Athena-we cannot wait to continue having more adventures and making more memories with her.”
– Amie Zeoli
OCAnimalCare
Thanks to grant funding from California for All Animals, families who adopt a dog from OC Animal Care now receive a free four-week, virtual training scholarship from GoodPup. Many adopters feel more confident bringing a dog home when they know support is readily available. The virtual format allows for accessible, flexible training sessions that accommodate all schedules. As a result, we hope to see fewer dogs returned due to behavioral issues, and help adopters build stronger bonds with their new pets By actively addressing post-adoption challenges, OC Animal Care is not only helping build happier homes, but also creating a cycle of success that benefits both the shelter, and the community we serve.
One-on-one meet and greets with animals being considered for adoption have enhanced customer success by creating a more personalized and effective experience for potential adopters. These visits allow staff to understand each adopter’s lifestyle, preferences, and experiences with animals, helping to match them with pets that best fit their needs. As a result, adopters feel more supported and confident in their decision, which reduces the likelihood of returns The one-on-one time also gives each animal a calmer environment to meet new people, showcase their personalities and improve their chances of finding the right home.
“Thedeliveriesare prompt likeclockwork Andtheyarethenicest, mostwonderfuldelivery people.”
-OoAHome-Delivered MealsClient
OCCommunityServices
Across OCCS, our programs are transforming lives by connecting people to meaningful resources and support.
The Office on Aging (OoA) partners with local nonprofits to provide older adults with vital transportation and meal delivery services, helping reduce isolation and improve health outcomes Events like intergenerational lunches foster connection, while our Information & Assistance team links callers to essential community resources demonstrating OoA’s commitment to enhancing quality of life through accessible, community-based support.
The Veterans Service Office (VSO) recently helped a former Marine
Workforce & Economic Development Division (WEDD) programs empower individuals to overcome employment barriers After incarceration, one participant faced housing and employment barriers Through WEDD’s WIOA Adult Program, he completed truck driving school, earned his Class A license, and secured a full-time driving job. His journey reflects the power of second chances and the dedication of our team to supporting career growth.
Together, these stories highlight OCCS’ shared mission to uplift and serve the Orange County community.
The FSS Program has taught me never say never, it’s never too late and anything is possible when you learn to believe and love yourself. This program has empowered me to better my life and living situation
OCHousing&Community Development
Housing Authority
The Orange County Housing Authority’s Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program supports families in increasing income, achieving education goals, and reducing dependence on government aid. The FSS team collaborates with families to create an individual training and services plan (ITSP) with specific goals and action steps. Participants can receive reimbursements for expenses like tuition, childcare, and transportation related to their goals. Additionally, an escrow account is established for families, with deposits made when rent increases due to higher income; families can access this balance upon successfully completing their ITSP goals
Community Development
The City of Seal Beach offers a Housing Rehabilitation program funded by Community Development Block Grant funds for lowincome seniors in the Leisure World Community. Assisting 30 to 50 seniors annually, the program enhances bathroom accessibility by converting tubs to accessible showers, which is more cost-effective than full replacements It also provides ADA-compliant grab bars, shower seats, smoke detectors, and high-boy toilets Residents frequently express their gratitude for the improvements made through this program.
Housing Development
Housing Development focuses on financing affordable and supportive housing in Orange County through the Notice of Funding Availability process. While it doesn't serve the public directly, its efforts contribute significantly to addressing homelessness. Each housing project requires extensive collaboration and time, and partnerships, like with the Orange County Housing Authority, help transform financed houses into homes
ADay inthe Life
“Without this program, my students and even I would not have fully grasped the profound role parks play in our communities Parks With Purpose has not only enriched our curriculum but has also instilled a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.”
Developing and implementing the Parks With Purpose program has been a rewarding experience for all OC Parks staff involved The dynamic 10-week program created entirely in house is designed for fourth grade students to learn about and appreciate the County’s local ecosystems, natural resources and historical significance. This grant-funded program for underserved communities demonstrates the value of preserving and protecting local habitats while inspiring students to become good park stewards through a series of classroom and outdoor learning components and videos, including field trips to Clark and Carbon Canyon regional parks
Since launching in 2022, more than 1,200 students have participated and earned their “Park Protector” badge at graduation, leaving with newfound knowledge and ideas to continue to protect the outdoors. Voluntary survey data submitted by teachers during the program highlights its success and positive impact on students.
Parks with Purpose
OCPublicLibraries
At OC Public Libraries, success isn’t just measured by books borrowed, it’s seen in the lives we have helped enrich. By connecting people to resources, whether it’s helping families prepare kids for school, connecting patrons through bookclubs and author events, language learning, or simply providing a welcoming space, we empower individuals to thrive. For example, parents report that their children look forward to storytime as the highlight of their week, and teens learn useful skills A student improved their reading and comprehension skills by checking out our foreign language materials. A senior citizen discovered a newfound sense of community and improved her emotional health through our adult craft programs. These victories, large and small, are why we do what we do Every day, we bridge gaps, foster growth, and empower our community.
As a passionate leader in the Teen Advisory Board (TAB) and Library Aide program at the Tustin branch, saying the library has changed my life would be an understatement I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to volunteer with an institution that has given all of us a voice.
AdministrativeServices
Delivering outstanding customer service to our Programs is a vital aspect of Administrative Services. Each day, we support their needs and efforts to serve Orange County communities. Whether it's maintaining facilities, managing budgets, overseeing procurement and contracts, providing guidance on policies and procedures, offering training and professional development, and providing other helpful resources, we aim to provide quality service to our Programs
Our dedication to customer service is reflected in the positive feedback we receive from Program staff. Every individual on our Administrative Services team plays a crucial role in enhancing the support system for our Programs Our commitment to exceptional customer service will remain at the forefront, as we continue to support them and the incredible work they do.
As our Budget Analyst, Annie [Luu] plays a crucial role in supporting OC Public Libraries, guiding us in strategic and financial planning, aiding in the preparation of OCPL’s annual budget, and advising on purchases for branch operations. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset, while her positive demeanor and collaborative nature create a productive and solution-focused work environment
Kevyn [Cobos] has been very helpful and invaluable to my professional growth and understanding of the complex procurement processes. Kevyn has always been available and quick to respond to my many, many questions and she takes the time to explain procedures and decode the alphabet soup of acronyms that is Procurement! Kevyn continues to be a fantastic partner, ensuring effective communication between the OC Parks and Procurement teams!
SAFETY SERIES
E P I S O D E 1 - E R G O N O M I C S
OCCR proudly celebrated its 18th anniversary on March 18, 2025! This milestone signifies nearly two decades of unwavering service and dedication to the community Throughout the years, OCCR has continually evolved, working tirelessly to address the needs of those it serves. Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, it has positively impacted countless lives, promoting a sense of connection and well-being. Here’s to many more years of success and community enrichment!
OCMemoryLab
ServiceAwards
25
20
15
10
Ernesto Vargas, OC Parks
Trina Nguyen, OC Housing Authority
Paul Reyes, OC Parks
Lisa Brooks, OC Public Libraries
Amy Johnson, OC Public Libraries
Jose Mendoza, OC Animal Care
Ramiro Carlos, OC Parks
Scott Fegley, OC Parks
Jason Lopez, OC Parks
Elizabeth Freyre, OC Community Services
Alma Sanchez, OC Housing Authority
Tomas Chavez, OC Parks
Fernando Lurati, OC Parks
Nicholas Martinico, OC Parks
Lauren Serrano, OC Parks
Sandra Barros, OC Public Libraries
Dené Andrea, Administrative Services
Mauricio Escobar, Administrative Services
Grecia Palacios, Administrative Services
Rosa Carrillo-Machado, OC Animal Care
Grace Chen, OC Animal Care
Michelle Hernandez, OC Animal Care
Cesar Alvarez, OC Parks
Danny Huizar, OC Parks
Brianna Lopez, OC Parks
5
Pam Passow, OC Parks
Shelly Kossler, OC Public Libraries
Ericka Reeb, OC Public Libraries
Orkideh Vakilian, OC Parks
David Elliott, OC Public Libraries
Benjamin Towne, OC Public Libraries
Sean Whittle, OC Public Libraries
Anna Dalin, OC Public Libraries
Savannah Feiner, OC Public Libraries
Franklin Garrido, OC Public Libraries
Yuka Kobayashi, OC Public Libraries
Lung An Ho, OC Public Libraries
Valentina McDevitt, OC Public Libraries
Leopoldo Ramirez, OC Parks
Glenda Gomberg, OC Public Libraries
Linda Gottfredson, OC Public Libraries
Mizue Harris, OC Public Libraries
Dorie Lerner, OC Public Libraries
Mayra Marquez, OC Public Libraries
Melanie Morin, OC Public Libraries
Melanie Shay, OC Public Libraries
Lisa Zhao, OC Public Libraries
