By Sharing with Others You Multiply Blessings

Helen Mathilda Yunker was born in Chicago on September 3, 1921. She moved to Long Beach, California in 1948, and relocated to Ventura in 1958. Helen Yunker received acclaim throughout her life and career for her achievements as a businesswoman, entertainer and philanthropist.

After 10-years in direct sales, Helen moved to Ventura's Pierpont Bay area and founded Helen Yunker Realty. She has been recognized for her many contributions by numerous service organizations in the areas of education, medicine, theater, and the arts. She was a recipient of The Mayor's Arts Award for years of service and support of the arts.

Helen joined the Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors in 2000. Helen took a special interest in the Ventura College Opera Workshop. Over almost three decades, Helen established endowed scholarships for deserving Ventura College music students, and Ventura College honored her by gracing its auditorium with her name. Helen also established an annuity which benefited the Ventura College Opera and Theatre Workshop for many seasons.

Helen gave more than $2.9 million dollars to support the Music Department and the Opera and Musical Theatre program. $2 million can via an estate gift she left to the Ventura College Foundation.

Her philosophy was simple: "By helping and sharing with others, you multiply your own happiness and blessings many times over." Her great generosity will enable many students to reach their artistic potential and will allow music in the Ventura community to thrive for years to come.