Community of Participants

John Ray

John “JR” Ray is CEO and Co-Founder of C.I. Partners Direct, a national fundraising and consulting firm headquartered in Ventura. In addition to serving on the Board of Directors of Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara (CSCVVSB), JR has provided financial support to the organization as well as pro bono mailing and technical expertise to the staff.

JR is a U.S. Army veteran, having served time with Army Airborne and Ranger units. He recently completed the Leadership Course at the USC Marshall School of Business, as well as the Board Leadership Institute program at the CLU Center for Nonprofit Leadership.

“JR goes the extra mile,” says CSCVVSB Development Director Donna Baharouzi. “His passion for our organization runs deep, and he truly gives his time, treasure, and talent.”

We appreciate everything JR has done and continues to do on behalf of people facing cancer in our community. Thank you for sharing your story, JR!

I first learned about Cancer Support Community in 2014 when my blood test results were elevated and further testing wasn’t giving me any answers. A CSCVVSB member invited me to the Prostate Cancer Networking Group where I got advice and encouragement to get a second opinion. I am so glad I took his advice. The second doctor, who uses different equipment, found a high-risk, aggressive grade five cancer that required treatment.

I have been going to the Prostate Cancer Networking group since 2015, and the men and women in the group have been a treasure trove of information. We have a very active, fairly large group and we have been able to attract the best doctors in the country to talk with us on the latest and greatest in treatment options. The friendships have been invaluable to my mental wellbeing as I went through and recovered from my year and half of treatments.

I have financially supported CSC since I started attending the support group. I have gained so much from CSCVVSB’s services and I feel this passion to see the organization thrive and help more people impacted by cancer.

I own a fundraising company and I did my first fundraising project for CSCVVSB free of charge in March, 2016. My wife and I enjoy attending the annual galas and Survivor’s Day picnics. In December, 2017 I was invited to join the board of directors, where I have done my best to help the organization with their strategic direction and fundraising efforts.

The feeling I get from helping is almost beyond words…Since I was touched by cancer, I feel for what others are going through. I know that CSCVVSB can help them talk through treatment options, understand their own or their loved one’s cancer better, and thrive post-treatment.  I am really honored to help the great staff and volunteers at CSCVVSB!

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The Prostate Cancer Networking Group is one of dozens of groups offered free of charge at Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara. Learn about all of our programs here, and learn how you can help here