Press Release

Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes Honors Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County as 2025 Nonprofit of the Year

25 Nonprofits of Distinction Recognized for Outstanding Service Across the Inland Empire

(Fontana, CA) – Earlier this month, Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) hosted the 9th Annual Nonprofit of the Year Luncheon, celebrating the essential work of nonprofit organizations serving the 29th Senate District and the Inland Empire. This year’s event received over 200 nominations, a testament to the remarkable efforts of local organizations working to uplift our communities. From these nominations, Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County (CAPSBC) was selected as the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year, and 25 Nonprofits of Distinction were recognized for their tireless service and transformative impact across the Inland Empire.

“Nonprofit organizations are the heart and soul of our communities,” said Senator Reyes. “Whether they are feeding families, empowering youth, housing the unhoused, or advocating for justice, these organizations are leading with compassion and creating lasting change. It is a privilege to recognize their work and thank them for all they do.”

Reyes continued, “This year, we are proud to name Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County as our Nonprofit of the Year for their extraordinary leadership in combating poverty and uplifting thousands of families across our region. Their commitment to equity, dignity, and long-term solutions has made them a pillar of hope for the Inland Empire.”

Founded in 1965, CAPSBC delivers essential services in food banking, family development, and environmental sustainability to thousands of San Bernardino County residents each year. With over 3,500 volunteers and a mission to eliminate poverty, CAPSBC helps individuals and families achieve long-term self-sufficiency.

“CAPSBC is deeply honored to receive the Non-Profit of the Year award, a recognition made possible through the thoughtful selection by Senator Gomez Reyes,” said Patricia L. Nickols-Butler, President and Chief Executive Officer for Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County. “For 60 years, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to serving the community, illuminating pathways of hope, support, and empowerment for those in need. This award not only reaffirms our mission but also highlights the support and trust placed in us by leaders who champion positive change. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Senator Gomez Reyes and all who have contributed to our journey—we remain dedicated to creating lasting impact."

CAPSBC was honored at a separate event held to celebrate Non-Profit Organizations of the Year from Senate and Assembly districts across California on May 21. 

In addition to CAPSBC, the following 2025 Nonprofits of Distinction were honored:

  • AAUW Redlands Branch – Promotes equity in education for women and girls through STEM programs, scholarships, and community events.
  • BLU Educational Foundation – Advances educational equity by supporting students and families with access, advocacy, and college readiness resources.
  • Colton Area Museum – Preserves and promotes Colton’s diverse history through inclusive exhibits and community engagement.
  • Connect Senior Services – Provides meals, housing support, and wellness programming to help seniors thrive.
  • Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) – Trains volunteers to advocate for foster youth in the court system and ensure their well-being.
  • DAV Chapter 12 – Supports disabled veterans and their families with benefits assistance, advocacy, and outreach.
  • Family Service Association of Redlands – Offers food, housing assistance, and emergency support to low-income families and seniors.
  • FletchyAnn Biney Foundation – Provides food, school supplies, and infrastructure support to underserved communities in Ghana.
  • Foothill Family Shelter – Provides housing and wraparound services for homeless families, helping them regain stability.
  • Friends of Upland Animal Shelter – Operates the Upland Animal Shelter with a no-kill philosophy and promotes animal adoptions.
  • Highlanders Boxing Club / HBC IRON Youth Services – Empowers youth through boxing, mentoring, and violence prevention programs.
  • Inland Empire Latino Lawyers Association (IELLA) – Offers free legal aid clinics and document support for low-income individuals.
  • Inland Empire Senior Support – Provides financial assistance and social support services to help seniors live independently.
  • KVCR Public Media – Delivers community-centered news, culture, and educational programming across the Inland Empire.
  • Magdalena’s Daughters – Supports female foster youth of color at risk of trafficking with survivor-led programs and housing plans.
  • National Council of Negro Women – Inland Empire Section – Empowers Black women and families through education, health, and economic justice programs.
  • Our Paths Foundation – Provides resources, peer support, and advocacy for families with children who have disabilities.
  • Redlands Chamber of Commerce – Supports economic development and leadership programs to strengthen local businesses and workforce.
  • Salvation Army Transitional Living Center – Offers shelter, life skills, and case management to families experiencing homelessness.
  • The LOVE Program – Empowers girls of color with mentorship, emotional wellness support, and academic readiness tools.
  • The Olive Branch Development & Empowerment Services – Delivers food, clothing, counseling, and empowerment programs to underserved families.
  • TODEC Legal Center – Advocates for immigrant and migrant communities through legal services and civic engagement.
  • Unidos Por La Musica – Uses music-driven outreach to provide food, education, and healthcare resources to low-income families.
  • Women on the Move Network – Provides mentorship and empowerment programming for girls and women, rooted in equity and leadership.

Each of these organizations embodies the values of service, leadership, and community transformation, helping to build a stronger, more just Inland Empire.

To learn more about the honorees and view photos from the event, visit https://sd29.senate.ca.gov/nonprofit-year-2025 

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Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes represents Senate District 29, which includes the cities of Colton, Fontana, Highland, Rancho Cucamonga, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, Upland, Grand Terrace, Loma Linda, and the unincorporated communities of Bloomington and Muscoy.