Community Spotlight: Meet Esther Anaya of The Arc of Ventura County

Esther Anaya

Executive Director, The Arc of Ventura County

1) Can you please share more about yourself and the mission of the Arc of Ventura County?

I’m grateful to serve as Executive Director of The Arc of Ventura County, an organization that for 70+ years has championed dignity, inclusion, and self-determination for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our mission is simple and powerful: to improve quality of life by offering person-centered services that lead to greater independence and choice in everyday community settings. The Arc is where values become visible. Every day, we see people define their own goals—and we adapt services around those goals. It’s a community that believes in ability, expects growth, and makes space for contribution. Our promise is practical and personal: respect, dignity, and inclusion—delivered through real jobs, real homes, real relationships, and real choices.

My leadership was shaped by eight years of service in the U.S. Army as a Communications Sergeant, where I learned the importance of mission clarity, discipline, and the power of teamwork. I later earned a degree in Sociology from Eastern New Mexico University and a master’s degree in educational counseling—experiences that ground my leadership approach in systems thinking and person-centered practice. 

Looking ahead, I’m excited to advance The Arc’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan—deepening program excellence, strengthening our workforce, and partnering across Ventura County so every person we support can define and pursue a life of purpose and pride.

2) Who has made a strong impact on your life and helped you get where you are today?

My parents modeled the belief that every person has value and that you honor others by showing up with your best self. The Army deepened that foundation by teaching me discipline, integrity, and mission-driven service – lessons I rely on every day. Alongside these influences, I’ve always relied on an internal spiritual compass – a steady sense of what is just, what is right, and what compassion requires of us. That compass aligns naturally with The Arc’s purpose: we are about community – all community, creating spaces where every person is welcomed, supported, and invited to contribute.

3) What are some recent highlights at The Arc of Ventura County? And what events, milestones, and steps are in the near future?

Over the past year, The Arc served 741 individuals across Ventura County—helping 139 people gain job skills and secure competitive, integrated employment, supporting 105 individuals

to live more independently, and welcoming 485 participants to our community day programs. These outcomes reflect our mission in action and the generosity of our community.

Looking ahead, we are moving from strength to scale under our 2026–2029 Strategic Plan. Key priorities include:

· Expanding program excellence, including digital literacy and the MOVE program

· Investing in a resilient, well-trained workforce

· Enhancing two-way communication with families and partners

· Strengthening financial sustainability to serve Ventura County for decades to come

Over the next three years, our strategic plan will guide the launch of new employer partnerships, the expansion of caregiver and participant feedback channels, and community-based learning opportunities across Ventura County.

5) Why did you think it was important to become a member of CNL? What do you value most about your connection with CNL?

CNL’s mission to strengthen leadership and management capacity across Ventura County’s nonprofit sector strongly aligned with my priorities as a new executive director. I wanted The Arc to be connected to an ecosystem of practice where our staff and board can access high-quality training, current sector standards, and a strong peer network. That connection helps us steward resources responsibly and deliver consistently excellent services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

The combination of practical workshops, vetted tools, and a trusted peer community. CNL is known for affordable, high-quality professional development that meets leaders where they are. That matters in a dynamic environment—whether we’re evolving program models, building a resilient workforce, or strengthening board governance. The ripple effect is better outcomes for those we serve.

7) How can the community support you? Where can readers find you on social media?

Three high-impact areas:

· Hire talent. Partner with us to create inclusive jobs; our team provides recruitment, onboarding support, and disability-inclusion training for your staff. 

· Give or donate goods. Financial gifts sustain programs; donating quality items to The Arc Foundation Thrift Store fuels services across the county.

· Advocate and volunteer. Join us in championing equity and access for people with IDD across Ventura County.

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