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Unity in Diversity
Welcome to the Ilocano Association of Ventura County
Ilocano Association of Ventura County: Celebrating Heritage and Community
Founded in 1982 by friends Ernie Sajor and Jimmy Ines (both deceased), the Ilocano Association of Ventura County brings together families from the Ilocos region. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to foster social connections, celebrate our unique culture, and savor the diverse delicacies of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur.
Key Highlights:
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Inclusive Membership: Initially exclusive to Ilocanos, we later opened our doors to all who share our passion. Officers were elected, and bylaws established.
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Preamble: With reverence to God, we pledge to promote the welfare of Ilocanos, respect our racial heritage, uphold the U.S. Constitution, and maintain peace and decency within our community.
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Easter Sunday Tradition: Our original picnic activity continues—a joyful gathering to celebrate the Resurrection, share favorite foods, and hunt for Easter eggs.
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Community Engagement: We actively collaborate with Fil-Am clubs, support local events, contribute to the Oxnard Library, and serve those in need.
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Education and Recognition: IAVC proudly honors members’ educational achievements through monetary awards.
Join us as we preserve our heritage, build bridges, and create lasting memories!
Be a part of our mission to preserve and promote the rich heritage of the Ilocano community.
About Us
Ilocano Association of Ventura County
The Ilocano Association of Ventura County (IAVC) was founded in August 1982 by two friends Ernie Sajor and Jimmy Ines (now deceased), who both agreed that the Ilocanos should form an organization so Ilocano families can get together every month. With the help of 12 other families, the Ilocano Association was formed. Initially, it was agreed that all members should be from Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur to make the organization unique. Six months later, membership was opened to welcome everyone who wanted to join and support the organization. Officers were elected and Bylaws were formulated.
The organization is a venue for socialization and for its members to enjoy each other’s company and eat the delicacies of the Ilocos region.
Preamble of the Ilocano Association of Ventura County
With reverence to God, we declare to promote the general welfare of the Ilocanos, other ethnic groups, and our fellow Americans, to respect and preserve our racial culture, to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America, to enhance our amicable relationship with all the citizens of this county pertaining to peace, orderliness and decency. We do hereby unite ourselves and proclaim this as the Preamble of the Ilocano Association of Ventura County.
Activities
Easter Sunday is an original Picnic activity for our members, a tradition we continue up to now. It is intended for our members to be together, celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and share and enjoy the food that our members bring to the picnic. Easter eggs represent the resurrection of Jesus and his emergence from the tomb, so we also observe the tradition of burying eggs for our children to hunt. The children are rewarded depending on the amount of eggs they collect.
The Ilocano Association actively participates in different economic and social activities of Fil-Am clubs/organizations in and outside Ventura County. We have fully supported the Fil-Am council in its annual celebration of the Philippine Independence Fiesta and Flag Raising at the Oxnard City Hall.
For our community, we have contributed financially to the new Oxnard Library. We also worked with Community Action Ventura County by donating jackets, clothes, shoes, socks, toiletries, and laundry detergent and served food to those who are in need. We participate in the Simbang Gabi during the Christmas Season at the Mary Star of the Sea Church. IAVC is also an active participant in building the Phil Center.
IAVC is proud to recognize its members and their children’s educational achievements and have given monetary awards to them
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Community Initiatives
Cultural Heritage Preservation
Engage in activities that aim to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of the Ilocano community.
Community Outreach Programs
Contribute to programs focused on community outreach, support, and empowerment.
Educational Scholarships
Support educational initiatives and scholarships for the youth within the Ilocano community.