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The Basics

Annika Sumby

Executive Director of The Samaritan Center of Simi Valley

1. Can you please share more about yourself and the mission of the Samaritan Center?

The mission of the Samaritan Center is to offer Simi Valley residents experiencing housing and food insecurities supportive services essential to human dignity.

We believe that every life and story matters, and despite what someone has endured in the past, a positive future is available to everyone. Our commitment is to understand and meet clients exactly where they are and provide the tools and support necessary to create a better future.

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

I grew up in a small German village surrounded by lots of family and a great community. I am thankful beyond words for all the values they instilled in me and the strength and resilience they showed me. My grandma was one of the most selfless people I have ever met. Growing up during the war, she had to work to support her family from a very young age. Listening to her stories and experiencing her hard work ethic first hand definitely made me more determined in my own life. My family has always been there when I needed support and I know there is always an open door with a smile at the other end.

3. What are some recent highlights at the Samaritan Center? And what events, milestones and steps are in the Samaritan Center's near future?

We just celebrated 30 years of the Samaritan Center supporting our homeless community. The existence of the Samaritan Center for three decades is a testament to our resilience and commitment, but it is also a reminder of the ongoing need to address the root causes of homelessness and to advocate for sustainable solutions like housing. There are no emergency shelters in Simi Valley, our vision is to create interim housing with wrap-around services to prepare clients to succeed in more permanent housing solutions. Together, we can continue to build a community where no one is left behind, where every person has a place to call home.

Our next event will take place on December 10. Please join us for hot cocoa, sweet treats, games and pictures with Santa. You can find more details on our website and on social media.

4. What about the Samaritan Center is special to you, what would you like our readers to know? 

It’s a place with so much compassion and empathy. Over the years, we have witnessed incredible stories of resilience, courage, and transformation. We have seen individuals rise, finding their voice, reclaiming their dignity, and rebuilding their lives with the help of the compassionate services provided within our walls.

It is at the Samaritan Center that miracles have unfolded. Lives have been saved, families have been reunited, and new beginnings have taken root. Through the efforts of dedicated staff, tireless volunteers, and the support of our community, we have been able to make a difference in the lives of those who needed it most.

5. Why did you think it was important to become an organizational member of the CNL? What do you value most about your membership?

It’s a great opportunity to keep learning and to keep up to date with changes in the nonprofit world. We also just completed the Board Leadership program which was a huge learning success. No matter what questions we have, CNL is there to assist and point us in the right direction. It’s also a great way to network and collaborate with other non-profit organizations.

6. How can the community support you? Where can they find you on social media?

You can support The Samaritan Center - Simi Valley by donating your time as a volunteer, organizing a food drive with non-perishable items or by making a monetary donation. For more information and questions, please reach out to us. 

www.samaritancentersimivalley.org

(805) 579 - 9166

info@samcentersv.org

Facebook @SamaritanCenter

Instagram @SamCenterSV