In Memory of Claudia Harrison

Founding First 5 Ventura County Executive Director and children's advocate Claudia Harrison, 64, whose leadership and passion inspired so many, lost her battle with cancer. She died in her home in Ojai, CA on October 29, 2016 surrounded by friends and family.  Our thoughts and prayers are with Claudia’s family and close friends today and in the coming weeks and months.

The entire First 5 family is heartbroken. As we grieve, we also celebrate Claudia’s life. Join us in carrying forward her vision of weaving the fabric of the community so tightly that no child can fall through.

Claudia would often reference the traditional greeting passed among the Masai tribe “And How Are The Children?” The greeting shows the high priority these fierce warriors placed on the wellbeing of children, and the response “All the children are well” means life is good. It means that even poor, young, and defenseless people receive the proper care in their daily struggles of existence. Claudia embodied the meaning of the Masai greeting: she was a true champion for young children and worked tirelessly on promoting early literacy, improving dental care, and addressing the root causes of child poverty.

Claudia is survived by her loving son Connor, age 20. Thank you for your donation in Claudia’s memory to support her son Connor.