Our Founder

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Nan Tolbert

Recognized and awarded as an Ojai Valley Living Treasure for her great contributions to our community, Nan was passionate about the wellbeing of young children and families within the Ojai Valley.

In the 1970's Nan Tolbert drew a large percentage of pregnant women from Ventura County to Ojai Hospital with her expertise and progressive birthing techniques. She was part of a remarkable group, along with Dr. Robert Skankey, who practiced innovative and healthy birthing techniques that are more mainstream today.

When the hospital closed its doors in 2000, Nan found new ways to help the same group of women and their families. Along with friend, Marilyn Ryan, she founded The Ojai Valley Birth Resource and Family Center, which helped countless moms and families, both English and Spanish speaking, through the birth process and early education. These classes were available to all, regardless of income. She brought families together, tapping into the experiences and knowledge of fellow mothers, creating a network of friends to help.

As a person, Nan was in touch with the loving, playful side of herself which greatly endeared her to many local children, mothers and fathers. She took a personal interest in her work by volunteering countless hours to help families with newborn babies and ultimately became intimately connected with those families as a unique, wise, compassionate role model.

Sadly, Nan succumbed to a brain cancer in 2006. During her illness, her former students, patients, and friends responded with offers of help, support, food, and gifts. Nan left this world as she lived it: with grace and patience. We will miss you.