Earl Perkins Rings the bells to raise funds for The Salvation Army to help the Hungry, Homeless and Hopeless this holiday season.
“This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Major Isaias Braga, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.— The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring and sharing. The San Bernardino Salvation Army (www.salvationarmyusa.org) seeks volunteers to Keep the Bells Ringing in the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
The nationally recognized shiny red kettles are an integral part of the Christmas scene, with lots of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors and the homeless, in keeping with the spirit of the season.
“This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Major Isaias Braga, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “We’re looking for individuals, families and groups to spend a day at one of our more than 30 locations in our area.”
The Salvation Army begins ringing its bells this year on Monday November 13th, from 10 am through 6 pm and continues Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.
Many volunteers ring two hours at a time, but groups are asked to provide ringers who can work in shifts for an entire day. Anyone who would like to donate a few hours of their time can volunteer. Individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Where does the money raised by the ringing bells in San Bernardino go? The Salvation Army provides emergency services including food, housing for homeless or displaced families, clothing and showers, as well as assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.
“Last Christmas, The Salvation Army provided 650 holiday food baskets to families and 1,400 children received 5,500 toys,” said Braga. On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army hosts a Christmas Dinner that provides a delicious meal to approximately 300 people. Donations raised by volunteers who Keep the Bells Ringing help make this possible.
To volunteer to Keep the Bells Ringing, call The Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336.
To donate to The Salvation Army online, go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org. To donate by phone call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769).
Photo Caption: Majors Isaias and Adelma Braga welcome donors to The Annual Red Kettle Kickoff. This year’s event is Wednesday, November 15th, at 5:30 pm at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346. Click here for tickets.
Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign. It all happens on Wednesday, November 15th at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals in need without discrimination. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino and the Inland Empire since 1887. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino.
Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local service number is (909) 888-1336.
“Dameron Communications founder, creative director, and longtime community trailblazer Carl M. Dameron has been elected President of the Black Culture Foundation,” said outgoing President Ezekiel Adeleke.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.— The Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of dedicated community leaders, will celebrate its 31st Black Rose Awards with a new President.
“Dameron Communications founder creative director and longtime community trailblazer Carl M. Dameron elected President of the Black Culture Foundation, effective on February 3, 2024,” said outgoing President Ezekiel Adeleke. Dameron is also co-chair of the 31st Black Rose Awards.
“I am honored to be chosen the leader of The Black Culture Foundation and co-chair of the 31st Black Rose Awards,” said Dameron. “I have enjoyed providing public relations services for The Black Rose Awards since 1994. I also served as the event master of ceremonies for several years. Now I have the honor of serving the Foundation as president.”
Dameron is recruiting new members and board members for the Foundation to work on its signature event and expand the Foundation’s reach. “We need people to aid in the efforts to recognize Black culture and Black leaders in the Inland Empire,” said Dameron. “We need accountants, graphic designers, office workers, and more.”
Photo Caption: 2023 Black Rose Award Winners – (From left) Accepted for Linda D. Wright; Arlington Rodgers Jr., President of the Black Culture Foundation; Rose Mayes, Humanitarian of the Year honoree; Gloria Macias Harrison, Black Rose awardee; Jim King, Foundation co-founder; Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson, Black Rose awardee; Accepting for San Bernardino Community Hospital Dr. Ruby Skinner, Medical Director, and Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, and Genevieve Echols.
To become a volunteer or board member, call or text Dameron at (909) 534-9500 or email blackrose@sbbcfoundation.org. Nominations are due by October 31, 2023.
The 31st Black Rose Awards ceremony takes place on Saturday, February 3, at a location to be announced.
The Black Culture Foundation is a non-profit organization run solely by volunteers. For over 40 years it has been giving scholarships to community youth to help with their college expenses. This program has helped many students achieve their life goals and we are glad to be a part of it. The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation is culturally diverse and committed to the development and understanding of Black culture. As part of that development and understanding, the Foundation strives to provide meaningful socio-economic and educational programs for the benefit of the community.
The Black Rose Awards Gala is the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.
About Carl M. Dameron
Carl M Dameron has spent more than 20 years as a board member and PR Chair for The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps. For more than 10 years he has served as a board member of the Greater Riverside Chamber of Commerce, the San Bernardino Police African American Advisory Committee, and the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Information Exchange.
Dameron is a founding board member and president of The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce, as well as a founding member of The Inland Empire African American Concerned Churches.
In 1994 Dameron created and produced Inland Empire Minority Job Fairs that have helped thousands of diverse people get jobs and start careers from 1994 to 2000. He launched Healthy Families, the free and low-cost children’s insurance program in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, exceeding the organization’s goals and objectives in record time.
Additional volunteer contributions include:
• Member and former Vice President of The Westside Action Group,
• Vice Chair of the San Bernardino Community College District Affirmative Action Committee,
• Secretary and Public Relations Chair for the San Bernardino NAACP
• Founding Steering Committee member and Public Relations Chair for the African American Health Institute of San Bernardino County
Dameron’s awards include:
• Boy Scouts Whitney M. Young Award for Community Service
• Moreno Valley Black Chamber of Commerce Madam C. J. Walker Media/Promotion Award
• The Unforgettables Community Service Award
• Black Culture Foundation Community Service Award
• League of Women Voters Citizens of Achievement Award
• The Blood Bank of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties Corporate Support Award
• The Urban League of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties Chairman’s Award
• Salvation Army Certificate of Appreciation for Public Relations Contributions
• San Bernardino County Office of Small Business Outstanding Small Business Advocate Award
• California State San Bernardino Entrepreneur of The Year Finalist
The League of Women Voters, San Bernardino celebrated their 48th annual Citizens of Achievement and Civic Engagement Ceremony honoring community leaders and organizations on a beautiful Sunday, October 8, 2023, at the Sterling Natural Resource Center in Highland, CA.
Honorees included Francine Cepeda Blacksher in recognition for being the founder of the Pacific Islander Graduate Recognition Program; Dr. Jenna Cortez-Aguirre for her work with St. Mary’s Ballet Folklorico of Redlands; Kristin Malaby for starting So Cal Trash Army clearing trash from the mountain recreation areas.
Also honored were Dr. Enrique Murillo, Jr., founder of Latino Education & Advocacy Days (LEAD) and appointment by President Joe Biden to the United States Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics of all age groups; Ratibu Shadidi (William “Bill” Henry Jacocks) posthumously for his community activities, civic engagement, social activism, and advocate of “Kwanzaa Consciousness.”
The League of Women Voters recognized Ratibu Shadidi as a Citizen of Achievement. Ratibu’s Award acceptance by son-in-law Carl M. Dameron and first grandchild Teriki Shani Thillet presented by Twilla Carthen. Video and editing by Giacomo Thillet Video link:https://youtu.be/dXr67-QwVq4?si=ecGQbT4dw6okXK4u
Finally honored were High Desert Pearls for advocating social justice including campaigning in the high desert local schools to increase voter participation, registration, and education; Inland Empire Children’s Book Project’s main focus of volunteer work includes giving books to children ages 0-18 (donations and volunteers are always welcome); and Westside Action Group, unofficially known as WAG to reduce racial inequities in employment, education, government, etc. in the City of San Bernardino.
After the program, the League was honored with recognition from San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran and council members Kimberly Calvin, and Damon Alexander, along with community leaders San Bernardino City School Board Member Felicia Alexander and County School Board Member Dr. Gwendolyn Dowdy-Rodgers.
San Bernardino Council members Kimberly Calvin, and Damon Alexander, present a certificate of achievement to League Members Kathy Ervin, and Twila Carthen, also present San Bernardino City School Board Member Felicia Alexander and County School Board Member Dr. Gwendolyn Dowdy-Rodgers
The League of Women Voters does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. Instead, it encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government. It influences public policy through education and advocacy.
The League of Women Voters takes positions on issues after studying the issues, meeting together to review the study results, and voting on the positions that follow from those studies. The League of Women Voters of the San Bernardino Area subscribes to the positions held by the League of Women Voters on the national, state, and local levels.
This year, Arrowhead United Way (AUW) is thrilled to announce its Inaugural Hunger Relief Benefit Concert, featuring the Magical Music of Motown. The concert will take place on October 14, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at the historic San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium.
The theme of the event is “United in Purpose” as we strive to “Feed the Need” in our community. The benefit concert will support AUW’s hunger relief efforts in serving the areas of San Bernardino, Grand Terrace, Highland, Patton, Colton, Rialto, Bloomington, Loma Linda, Devore Heights, Big Bear City, Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, Blue Jay, Rim forest, Crest Park, Running Springs, Crestline, and Devore Heights.
Join us for a night of incredible music and hear some of the best Motown classics recreated by nationally acclaimed artists all while making a difference in the lives of those in need. Your support will help us continue to provide crucial assistance to our community around hunger relief. Together, we can make a positive impact!
To learn more about this fantastic event, contact our office at (909) 884-9441.
Chao Rothberg and a distinguished group of influential women will be recognized at an awards celebration on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square. These women will share their wisdom on leadership, community service, mentorship, and the power women have to change the world.
The recipients include politicians, technology, business titans, philanthropists, and social justice warriors.
“A new model of delivering homeless outcomes and affordable housing development comes at a price,” Chao Rothberg said. “ This is our principle: Achieving self-sufficiency is priceless.” The services provided through LFCD, under Chao Rothberg’s leadership, continuously expanded throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, rapidly responding to the explosion of domestic violence cases, homelessness, and the affordable housing crisis. LFCD graduated upwards of 80 percent of the formerly incarcerated and street homeless, and thousands of Afghan and Ukrainian refugees into self-sufficiency and permanent housing in less than 12 months. Each client was provided a menu of sustainable outcomes starting with comprehensive case management, specialized education and skills training, gainful employment with career pathways, savings and other assets, critical benefits, and improved health conditions—a life filled with new opportunities.
LFCD’s proven comprehensive and integrated delivery model has earned it numerous recognitions including the San Francisco Business Time’s 2023 Community Impact Award, the East Bay Innovation Award Runner Up, the California All Youth Community Access Award, and the California Workforce Development Apprenticeship Award in recent years.
LFCD’s innovative practices include, for example, repurposing a vacant 285-room Motel 6 near Oakland International Airport and a 107-room Vagabond Executive Inn in Downtown Sacramento into a co-located facility with partner providers, dormitory housing, growth sector vocational training such as Certified Nurse Assistant, Network and IT professionals, High School diploma for adults, job placement (including an earn and learn to career placement), health-related programs, among many other services for those who are facing a wide range of obstacles.
LFCD was formed as a non-profit 501(c)(3) in 1980 by former refugees from Laos. Today the organization serves individuals from 40 nationalities, delivers specialized client service in 35 languages, and impacts the lives of over 31,000 diverse residents annually in three northern California counties (Alameda, Contra Costa, and Sacramento). Its mission is to advance the well-being of diverse communities through culturally informed employment, housing, asset development, and education. It has served over 500,000 Californians who earn lower incomes.
For more information, contact: Brad Meyers, Resource & Partnership Development Manager, Bmeyer@lfcd.org | (510) 533-8850.
Chancellor Wolde-Ab Isaac, Chancellor of Riverside Community College District talks to the attendees at last year’s conference.
“Educational and economic transformation in the Inland Empire is fundamentally impossible without cross-sector, region-wide collaboration, cooperation and alignment. When we all work together, everyone wins,” said Ann Marie Sakrekoff, Growing Inland Achievement’s Interim CEO.
INLAND EMPIRE, CA – Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) will host its 7th annual Toward a Shared Vision summit on October 25–26 at the Riverside Convention Center. GIA is a nonprofit that networks education, government, nonprofit, and business partners in the Inland Empire.
The summit theme, “United in the Journey,” embodies the need for a collective impact approach that harnesses the combined efforts of the business community, the Inland Empire’s 56 K-12 school districts, 12 community colleges, two public universities, five private universities, many nonprofit organizations, economic development agencies, and government entities to address complex regional educational challenges and opportunities.
A video invitation fromAnn Marie Sakrekoff, Growing Inland Achievement’s Interim CEO
GIA expects 300 local leaders from the IE’s leading organizations to tackle longstanding regional educational and economic challenges.
“Educational and economic transformation in the Inland Empire is fundamentally impossible without cross-sector, region-wide collaboration, cooperation and alignment. When we all work together, everyone wins,” said Ann Marie Sakrekoff, Growing Inland Achievement’s Interim CEO.
GIA believes fostering an efficient, high-quality education system that creates access for all residents is critical to regional growth and prosperity. This commitment extends to building equitable structures to eradicate systemic racism, ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has an opportunity to succeed.
Sakrekoff underscores the significance of uniting together, stating, “We understand that it takes all stakeholders’ collective efforts and collaboration to drive transformative change.”
Participants will engage in collaborative discussions, workshops, and team breakouts, focusing on strategies and solutions to expedite equitable educational opportunities and pathways to student success.
Keynote speaker: Dr. Anton Treuer is a renowned author and Professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University, recognized for his work in race relations and indigenous languages.
Dr. Treuer is a renowned author and Professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University, recognized for his work in race relations and indigenous languages.
Dr. Victor Rios, the MacArthur Foundation Chair and Professor of Sociology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, specializes in equity, anti-racism, cultural responsiveness, resilience, closing the opportunity gap, teacher well-being, and restorative justice.
To secure a seat, attendees are encouraged to register early, as availability is limited. Early bird registration is $109 until September 30, 2023, and $129 after. Conference registration includes access to all keynote and breakout sessions and event parking, as well as breakfast and lunch on both days. All proceeds from the event will support GIA’s student scholarship fund.
For more information and to register, please visit the GIA website at InlandEmpireGIA.org.
Dr. Sorrel Stielstra, Director of Research for GIA, addresses participants in a breakout room
Dr. Kristi Woods, Dean of Instruction, Languages, Humanities and Social Sciences, Riverside City College & Dr. FeRita Carter, Vice President, Student Services, Riverside City College
Chancellor of Riverside Community College District; Chancellor Kim Wilcox welcomed the group.
Event Main Room attendees
Left to Right: Chancellor Wolde-Ab Isaac, Chancellor of Riverside Community College District; Chancellor Kim Wilcox, University of California Riverside; Brian Haynes, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, University of California Riverside.
Kristopher Acevedo, Educational Advisor and Associate Faculty, Riverside City College, talks with Emma Diaz, Director of, the California Adult Education Program at Inland Adult Education Consortium
A participant writes notes on the board in a breakout room
About Growing Inland Achievement
Growing Inland Achievement, which serves both San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, is a regional cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit, and business partners in the Inland Empire, collectively working towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.
GIA staff support this work by researching issues and opportunities, developing financial resources for the region, and connecting diverse stakeholders across the two-county region of the Inland Empire.
GIA’s shared vision is that by 2035, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties will be widely recognized for their educated workforce, thriving communities, and vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all.
Photo caption: Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign. It all happens on Wednesday, November 15th at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346
“We are delighted to have Pete Van Helden, Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2023 Red Kettle Kickoff,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
REDLANDS, CALIF.— Pete Van Helden, Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign.
“Like the Salvation Army, Stater Bros. Charities has a long history of supporting those in need in Southern California,” said Van Helden. “To many people, the Salvation Army’s red kettles represent hope during the holidays, and that’s why I’m honored to serve as the keynote speaker for this year’s Red Kettle Kick-Off.”
“We are delighted to have Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2023 Red Kettle Kickoff,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
“Stater Bros. Markets has supported the mission of The Salvation Army for decades. We are honored to serve the same community,” he added.
Van Helden began his career at Stater Bros. Markets in April 2013 when he was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of the company. He was promoted to CEO in January 2016. In 2019, Van Helden was appointed to the Board of Directors of Stater Bros. Holdings, Inc., and in October 2022, Pete was elevated to its Chairman of the Board.
In 2022-2023 The Salvation Army served 26,013 People, 24,012 households that included 110,768 meals and 12,822 households receiving groceries. The Hospitality House provided 34,761 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 2,146 at-risk children participated in educational and recreational programs.
Donations from the Red Kettles help make possible Christmas, holiday food baskets for around 500 local families. On Christmas, a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to about 200 people.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy and Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
Donations may always be made online at www.SalvationArmyUSA.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868. Donors may drop off turkeys, hams, other food, cash or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands California, 92373.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino County since 1887. The Salvation Army supports people in need without discrimination. To donate go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy and Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
Brief 287 Words
Stater Bros. Markets CEO Pete Van Helden Delivers Keynote Address at The Salvation Army 2023 Red Kettle Campaign
REDLANDS, CALIF.— Pete Van Helden, Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign.
The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring, sharing and donations to The Salvation Army’s Red Kettles. The ringing of the Silver Bells begins with The Red Kettle Kickoff. This year’s event is Wednesday, November 15th at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346.
“Like the Salvation Army, Stater Bros. Charities has a long history of supporting those in need in Southern California,” said Van Helden. “To many people, the Salvation Army’s red kettles represent hope during the holidays, and that’s why I’m honored to serve as the keynote speaker for this year’s Red Kettle Kickoff.”
“We are delighted to have Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2023 Red Kettle Kickoff,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
“Stater Bros. Markets has supported the mission of The Salvation Army for decades. We are honored to serve the same community,” he added.
In 2022-2023 The Salvation Army served 26,013 People, 24,012 households that included 110,768 meals and 12,822 households receiving groceries. The Hospitality House provided 34,761 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 2,146 at-risk children participated in educational and recreational programs.
Donations may always be made online at www.SalvationArmyUSA.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868. Donors may drop off turkeys, hams, other food, cash or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands California, 92373.
BIO
Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
Pete began his career at Stater Bros. Markets in April 2013 when he was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of the company. He was promoted to CEO in January 2016. In 2019, Pete was appointed to the Board of Directors of Stater Bros. Holdings, Inc., and in October 2022, Pete was elevated to its Chairman of the Board.
Pete began his supermarket industry career in 1976, working as a courtesy clerk for Rosauers Supermarket in his home state of Montana. In 1978, he relocated to Bozeman, Montana where he joined Albertsons as a clerk. During his tenure at Albertsons, Pete held a variety of leadership positions in operations, merger integration and dual branding, was President of Jewel/Osco stores in Chicago, and served as President and CEO of all California stores.
In 2006, Pete joined Supervalu through the company’s partial acquisition of Albertsons. While at Supervalu, he was promoted to the position of Executive Vice President of Retail Operations and was responsible for overseeing the operations of 1,100 stores in 36 states.
Pete holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. He has also completed the Executive Business Program at Stanford University in addition to the Food Industry Executive Program at the University of Southern California (USC). The USC Marshall School of Business named Pete the 2018 Executive of the Year for the Food Industry Management Program.
Pete is Director Emeritus of the Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC), having served as its president in 2010. He also previously served as chairman of the TOPCO board of directors. Currently, he is a member of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Council and the San Bernardino International Airport Authority Technical Advisory Committee.
Pete is currently the CEO of Stater Bros. Charities, the philanthropic arm of Stater Bros. Markets.
“All of us who are part of the Hospitality House team love being able to help families, get back in control of their lives.”
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The San Bernardino Salvation Army Hospitality House stands ready to house homeless families and single women who need temporary, stable shelter. Their target population also includes multi-generational families, and single men with children as well.
“The Salvation Army Hospitality House serves as a safe refuge that provides residents with a supportive, caring environment and all the resources they need to deal with a wide variety of personal and/or family problems. It all starts with an emergency shelter that can keep participants safely housed for 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on their circumstances,” says Program Manager Naomi Goforth.
At intake, each new arrival is assessed by trained Salvation Army intake staff. Once the scope of a client’s needs has been determined, each family is given a detailed individualized case plan and assigned to a case manager who will maintain close contact during their entire stay.
Each family’s case plan includes comprehensive goals and objectives that cover their intake, transition to permanent housing, help finding a steady job, legal advocacy, child welfare aid, and education. Every resident is treated as an individual with individual needs and every case is different and gets a customized case plan.
Amanda and her six children are graduates of the Salvation Army Hospitality House. They now live in their apartment
“People who come to Hospitality House may have been sleeping in their cars or were recently released from a hospital. At intake, each new resident gets clothing, bed linens, hygiene products, and a chance to take a breath after whatever ordeal they have just gone through,” says Goforth.
“I didn’t know what I was going to do,” says one recent Hospitality House graduate.
“I’m a single mom and I lost my job during the pandemic. Thank goodness, at least my 15-year-old car was paid off and when we were no longer able to pay rent, that’s where we slept. I heard about Hospitality House from a friend and the people there have helped me find a new job, secure a place to live, and even got me enrolled in a course that’s going to add to my skill set so I can advance in my new-found career.”
Goforth says, “Our residents don’t just sit around and spin their wheels. They actively work on their case plan. Our case managers are good at finding each individual’s motivation to resolve their homelessness and get back on their feet.”
The Salvation Army Hospitality House Program Manager Naomi Goforth
“Sometimes, that may include a referral to one of our partner agencies for things like mental health services, substance use, and legal aid. Whatever they need, we can either provide help in-house or get them connected to the right providers,” says Goforth.
As current resident K.L. notes, “I had a pretty bad rent history and I knew not many landlords would want to take a chance on me, even though I now have a decent job. But the Salvation Army has helped me reestablish a better tenant history and now I have a place lined up to move to when my stay here ends next week.”
In 2023 The Salvation Army served 26,013 people and 24,012 households, serving 110,768 meals, and donating groceries to 12,822 households.
The Hospitality House provided 34,761 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 2,146 children participated in educational and recreational programs.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. To donate, call 1-800 SATRUCK.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy and Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
Media Contact
Salvation Army-PR-1214.2 Hospitality House #1
For interviews or more information call Carl Dameron
Time for your annual Flu vaccine. Nurse Elisabeth gives Mia-Alexia Martinez 14 her annual Flu vaccine.
“The Centers for Disease Control tells us that September and October are good times to get vaccinated against the flu,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – Winter is flu season, but fall is the time to be prepared. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says, “For most people … September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated…[but] it’s important to know that vaccination after October can still provide protection during the peak of the flu season.”
For the 2023-2024 flu season, the CDC continues to recommend annual influenza vaccination for allpersons 6 months of age and older. Of particular concern are persons who are either very young, the elderly, or those who have chronic health conditions that put them at greater risk for complications from the flu—these people should not delay in getting their flu vaccines.
LaSalle Medical Direct Dr. Cheryl Emoto says, “Parents should take note of the fact that babies, those 6 months of age and older, need to get vaccinated as soon as they are old enough and children younger than 8 years old (including those babies) who are receiving their flu vaccine for the first time, will need a second dose four weeks after the first dose.”
LaSalle Medical Director Dr. Cheryl Emoto
Younger babies can be protected by parents and caregivers getting their flu vaccine, by so-called “herd immunity.” If parents do not get sick with the flu, the babies are also unlikely to get the flu.
For those over 65 years of age, there are higher-dose vaccines available that provide additional protection for the elderly. And for healthy individuals ages 2-49 years, there is a nasal spray available as a painless option. The nasal spray is just as effective as the injection.
The CDC notes a common misconception some people have is that a flu vaccine can give you flu, but that is not the case. Flu shots are made with “inactivated” (killed) viruses, or with only a single protein from the flu virus. The nasal spray vaccine contains live viruses that are attenuated (weakened) so that they will not cause illness,” says the CDC.
We should have flu vaccine available in the clinic by early September and we encourage everyone to get their flu vaccine.
LaSalle Medical Associates serves people covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare, and Covered California, as well as those covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), and Brand New Day. LaSalle staff have been trained to help people who come into a clinic without any insurance to get signed up for whatever coverage they qualify for.
For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to lasallemedicalassociates.com.
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B R I E F: 230 Words
It’s Time for Your Flu Shot
“The Centers for Disease Control tells us that September and October are good times to get vaccinated against the flu,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – Winter is flu season, but fall is the time to be prepared. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says, “For most people … September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated…[but] it’s important to know that vaccination after October can still provide protection during the peak of the flu season.”
LaSalle Medical Direct Dr. Cheryl Emoto says, “Parents should take note of the fact that babies, those 6 months of age and older, need to get vaccinated as soon as they are old enough and children younger than 8 years old (including those babies) who are receiving their flu vaccine for the first time, will need a second dose four weeks after the first dose.”
LaSalle Medical Associates serves people covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare, and Covered California, as well as those covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), and Brand New Day. LaSalle staff have been trained to help people who come into a clinic without any insurance to get signed up for whatever coverage they qualify for.
For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to lasallemedicalassociates.com.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest independent and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. The corporate office is in Redlands.
LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high-quality patient care to approximately 365,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Tulare counties.
Dr. Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle and Duane E. Whittington new Chief Executive Officer of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.
“LaSalle has grown from one patient to more than 350,000,” says Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle Medical Associates, “and we want to grow more, so we’ve hired a seasoned CEO to help us get to the next level.”
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – LaSalle Medical Associates has hired Duane E. Whittington as their new Chief Executive Officer. “We conducted a very thorough search,” says Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle, “and we were pleased to find a highly qualified local candidate with extensive medical practice management experience.”
During his 15-plus-year tenure as CAO with Beaver Medical Group, he founded EPIC Health Plan and developed it from its birth to maturity. In June 2021 he was promoted to Chief Executive Officer, overseeing a $700 million enterprise serving 110,000 HMO members.
Whittington, 55, earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from York University in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and his MBA from Pepperdine. After graduating from Pepperdine, he was hired as Executive Director for Pacific Physician Services in Redlands.
He then served as Regional Vice President for First Physician Care in Atlanta, Georgia, followed by a move back to Southern California as a healthcare and technology consultant with Tustin-based The Capitalist Group, LLC.
Whittington next returned to Redlands as Chief Operations Officer for Inland Health Organization for six years before joining EPIC Management/Beaver Medical Group, as Senior Vice President, and Chief Administrative Officer, responsible for the Accountable Care Services Division.
“I was approached about a leadership position at LaSalle, an organization I knew had been providing services for over 30 years in the Inland Empire. Due to a recent change in ownership where I was working at the time, I decided to pursue the opportunity,” says Whittington.
“I met with Dr. Arteaga, the Founder and President of LaSalle. He shared his vision and goals for LaSalle, building on the rich tradition of providing quality healthcare to families with courtesy and respect. Frankly, I found the opportunity to join a physician-led, community-focused provider group to be compelling.
“I’m super excited to take this position with a truly unique organization. Dr. Arteaga is a remarkable physician-leader and I am looking forward to helping him grow his organization and take it to the next level,” said Whittington.
Dr. Arteaga says, “We feel very fortunate to add Duane Whittington to our senior executive team. His extensive experience in the healthcare industry as a chief operating officer and chief executive officer showed he was the right choice, right from day one. We are looking forward to benefitting from his management and leadership experience as we continue to grow.”
LaSalle Medical Associates serves more than 350,000 patients in their clinics and statewide Independent Physicians Association Group (IPA) who are covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare, and Covered California, as well as those covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP).
LaSalle staff also help people who come into a clinic without any insurance to become enrolled for a variety of state and federal health coverage.
For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to LaSalleMedical.com.
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LaSalle Medical Associates Announces a New CEO
“LaSalle has grown from one patient to more than 350,000,” says Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle Medical Associates, “and we want to grow more, so we’ve hired a seasoned CEO to help us get to the next level.”
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – LaSalle Medical Associates has hired Duane E. Whittington as Chief Executive Officer. “We conducted a very thorough search,” says Albert Arteaga, MD, President of LaSalle, “and we found a highly qualified local candidate with extensive medical practice management experience.”
Whittington, 55, earned his MBA from Pepperdine. After graduating, he served as Executive Director for Pacific Physician Services in Redlands. He went on to serve as a C-suite executive for several healthcare organizations from Redlands to Atlanta, to Tustin, and back again to Redlands in 2000 as COO for Inland Health Organization.
In 2006 Whittington joined EPIC Management/Beaver Medical Group, as Senior Vice President, and Chief Administrative Officer, responsible for the Accountable Care Services Division. In June 2021 he was promoted to CEO, overseeing a $700 million enterprise serving 110,000 HMO members.
“With a recent ownership change where I was,” says Whittington, “I started to think about making a change. When I was approached about a leadership role at LaSalle, it turned out the timing was right. Dr. Arteaga shared his goals and intentions and I have to say that I’m super excited to take this position with a truly unique organization. I am looking forward to helping Dr. Arteaga grow his organization and take it to the next level,” said Whittington.
Dr. Arteaga says, “We feel fortunate to have Duane Whittington on our team. We look forward to benefitting from his management and leadership experience as we continue to grow.”
For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to LaSalleMedical.com.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest independent and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. The corporate office is in Redlands.
LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high-quality patient care to over 350,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino and Tulare counties.
