Photo Caption: Ann Marie Sakrekoff facilitates a leadership workshop on local education challenges and opportunities. Sakrekoff leads the two counties consortium to expand our educated workforce, thriving communities, and a vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all. Photo by Jake Poore.
INLAND EMPIRE, CA – Ann Marie Sakrekoff has been named Interim President & CEO of Growing Inland Achievement (GIA), effective May 15, following the retirement of Dr. Carlos Ayala.
GIA serves San Bernardino and Riverside Counties as a regional, cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit and business partners in the Inland Empire; collectively, they work towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.
Sakrekoff has over 20 years of higher education and nonprofit leadership experience, including her current role as GIA’s Chief Operating Officer.
Sakrekoff stated, “I am proud and excited to take on the Interim CEO role during such an exciting time for GIA as we continue building on our service to the Inland Empire educational network of students, families, institutions, and community partners. GIA will remain focused on its mission, impact, and growth while we search for our next permanent CEO.”
Diana Rodriguez, GIA Board Member and Chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District praised Sakrekoff’s experience.
“Ann Marie’s passion for helping Inland Empire students achieve their college dreams is truly inspiring. With her deep understanding of the challenges facing students in the region, she is committed to ensuring that every student has access to the resources they need to succeed,” said Rodriguez.
“Whether through innovative programming, advocacy efforts, or community outreach, Ann Marie is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students. Her unwavering commitment to this cause has made her an invaluable asset to Growing Inland Achievement, and we are confident that under her leadership as Interim CEO, the organization will continue to make great strides in improving educational outcomes for students throughout the Inland Empire,” Rodriguez added.
Sakrekoff was the first employee hired by GIA’s Board of Directors in 2005, helping to lead the organization since its inception.
“Ann Marie has served as the operations leader for the GIA since its early days. She has been a steady force and an excellent collaborative leader focused on advancing our region’s higher education and workforce goals,” said Sheila Thornton, GIA Board Member and CEO of OneFuture Coachella Valley. “Her dedication to student success is evident throughout her work. We’re grateful to Ann Marie for being willing to serve in this interim position.”
GIA’s board of directors anticipates launching a search for a permanent President & CEO in the coming months.
“Ann Marie is an exceptional leader poised to continue GIA’s efforts to increase equitable educational attainment in the Inland Empire,” said Dr. Kim Wilcox, GIA Board Chair and Chancellor of UC Riverside. “The board fully believes in her abilities to lead the organization while we search for a permanent CEO.”
Growing Inland Achievement, serves San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, in a regional cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit, and business partners in the Inland Empire, bringing more than $20 million and collectively working towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.
About Growing Inland Achievement
Growing Inland Achievement, serves San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, in 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 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.
LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga, M.D.
“We did a very thorough review and evaluation of several management services organizations, and we believe that Altura will be a great help in freeing us up to spend more time with our patients,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates.
SAN BERNARDINO, CAIF. On September 1, 2023, LaSalle Medical Associates transitions to a new Management Services Organization (MSO)—Altura Management Services Organization, LLC. MSOs are organizations that provide a variety of administrative functions for Independent Practice Associations on a contract basis.
Services include such routine but time-consuming tasks as utilization management, claims processing, and provider credentialing.
“We did a very thorough review and evaluation of several management services organizations, and we believe that Altura will be a great help,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates.
Altura’s goal is to continuously enhance the quality of the Independent Practice Association (IPA) services that they provide. LaSalle’s alliance with Altura is expected to improve the timeliness, accuracy, and quality of claims payments, credentialing, utilization management, reporting, and other services. This will also advance LaSalle’s relationships with health plans and its performance of health plan requirements.
LaSalle serves many people who are covered by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. They also accept patients covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP). LaSalle knows how to help people who lack insurance enroll in coverage that fits their needs.
For 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 approximately 365,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Tulare counties.
Growing Inland Achievement President and CEO, Dr. Carlos Ayala, Dr. Carlos Ayala speaks at GIA’s annual Toward a Shared Vision Summit. Photo by Robert A. Whitehead
Ayala is credited with working with the Network to establish Growing Inland Achievement (GIA), as a 501(c)(3), IRS tax-exempt organization; more than doubling the size of the organization; and bringing more than $20 Million to the region for education.
INLAND EMPIRE, CA – President and CEO of Growing Inland Achievement (GIA), Dr. Carlos Ayala, will retire in June 2023.
GIA serves both San Bernardino and Riverside Counties as a regional, cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit and business partners in the Inland Empire; collectively, they work towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.
“It has been an honor to serve the students of the Inland Empire, says Dr. Ayala. “I have learned a great deal about the affordances and constraints our students, families, institutions and community-based organizations face when it comes to student success.”
Dr. Ayala, age 62, has more than 25 years of service in public education. During his tenure as CEO, Ayala is credited with working with the network’s partners to establish GIA as a 501(c) (3), tax-exempt organization, more than doubling the size of the organization and raising millions of dollars for Inland Empire education.
Under his guidance and working with the network members, GIA was accepted as one of only six organizations in the U.S. chosen by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to participate in its Intermediaries for Scale program, also known as Higher Endeavor, bringing $10 million of support to the region for postsecondary transformation reforms.
“I want to thank the GIA Board of Directors and employees for their commitment to the people and students of the Inland Empire,” Ayala said. “I also wish to thank the vast array of people who are committed to changing the economy of the Inland Empire through education. Their work is notable and I remain convinced that the path forward is at your doorstep—engage collectively.”
The Board of Directors for GIA will oversee the process of choosing Dr. Ayala’s successor.
“As its first CEO, Carlos established the organization, including a set of processes to help us move forward,” said Dr. Kim Wilcox, GIA Board Chair and Chancellor of UC Riverside. “I’m personally grateful for his efforts.”
“Dr. Ayala brought a deep knowledge of the education landscape, strong leadership, and a passion for positively impacting student lives to our organization,” said Ann Marie Sakrekoff, COO of Growing Inland Achievement. “He is leaving GIA in a great position to succeed in our next chapter. Under Dr. Ayala’s leadership, GIA has become nationally recognized.”
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.
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.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887. They support those in need without discrimination. The Salvation Army serves the cities of Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, other mountain communities, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Yucaipa, Mentone, Redlands, and San Bernardino.
The Redlands Airport Association is once again hosting a charity toy drive to benefit The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps.
“The Salvation Army has been helping families with holiday needs since 1891. The toys collected will go to kids in the local area.
“Redlands EAA Chapter 845 will be holding a Young Eagles event that day starting at 9:00 am. Kids 8-17 can experience an aircraft ride at no cost and learn about aviation.
“Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is from 9-10am. For more information contact: Beverly 909-771-3279or Rick 909-223-0266
“Santa Claus will be flying in to say hi to the kids, as well.
“In the spirit of giving we will once again be hosting a LifeStream Blood Drive. Consider donating as their is a severe shortage of blood. You may save a life! The bloodmobile will be onsite between 10am -2:30 pm.
“The RAA will be cooking up a barbecue lunch starting at 11 am and going until 2.
“Pilots from local airports are welcome to fly-in, show off their plane and donate a toy.
“The event is open to families and members of the local community. Come on out and enjoy the fun! Please bring a new unwrapped toy and support this wonderful campaign.
“Be a Hero and Donate a New Unwrapped Toy for Kids in Need!
“Admission is free, but guests are asked to bring a new unwrapped toy to donate.
Citrus City Brass, a quintet based out of Redlands, CA. Our resident members include Kenley Nakao, Mark Perez (trumpets), and Tom Francis (trombone).
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.— The Citrus City Brass will play at the Red Kettle Kick-Off this Thursday, November 17th at 5:30 PM, at the Bear Springs Hotel Events Center, 27923 Highland Ave, Highland, CA 92346.
“The Salvation Army has a wonderful brass band that played at recent Red Kettle Kick Offs; however, they were already booked this year. I was lucky to hear The Citrus City Brass and we are blessed to have them play for us this year. They are wonderful musicians,” said Major Isaias Braga.
“We are honored to play for the Salvation Army,” said Kenley Nakao, Trumpeter, Citrus City Brass LLC., CEO “They hear a lot of brass music so we are honored to be asked to play for them at their annual fundraiser. Please watch our video of “Love of My Life” by Freddie Mercury at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8cvkRqE6JY.”
Citrus City Brass, a quintet based out of Redlands, CA. Our resident members include Kenley Nakao, Mark Perez (trumpets), and Tom Francis (trombone).
For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.
Hungry, homeless, hopeless? Trouble paying monthly bills, drug, or alcohol addiction? The Salvation Army helps people in need with all these problems and more. Different programs have different funding sources and one of the most important sources is the annual Red Kettle Kick Off campaign each Christmas season.
The Salvation Army bell ringers in front of your favorite stores collect money that provides food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; food baskets available daily, hot meals, clothing, and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.
During the Christmas season, The Salvation Army also delivers holiday food baskets to about 500 local families and provides toys to children whose parents cannot afford them.
On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations from people who donate to the Red Kettles help make this possible.
Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373.
For more information call (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.
About The Citrus City Brass
Citrus City Brass LLC.’s mission is to promote the enjoyment of music and highlight the continuous Evolution of the Brass Quintet. Through multi-genre concerts, engaging educational outreach programs, and the inclusion of multicultural diverse backgrounds to supply a well-rounded approach towards instrumental music. You can also check us out on Facebook and Instagram @citruscitybrass where we post up to date performances, music content, and more. For more information call (808) 344-6194.
Reaching New Heights Foundation Hosts Stand Down Outreach Event for Veterans and Homeless in San Bernardino
Non-Profit Organization Takes Action to Combat Homeless Crisis in San Bernardino and Support Local Veterans
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (August 24, 2022)—Reaching New Heights Foundation (RNHF), a nonprofit veteran organization, is hosting a Veterans Stand Down and Homeless Resource Event on Wednesday, October 12, 2021, at Perris Hill Park in San Bernardino. The one-day event is designed to support Inland Empire veterans and to provide much-needed resources to the area’s homeless population.
On average, there are 960 veterans a year who are homeless in San Bernardino. The 2020 San
Bernardino Homeless Count Survey shows the homeless count in 2020 increased 19.9% over 2019. RNHF is hoping the Veteran Stand Down event will be a way to take action against the extensive homeless issue that has been referred to as a “human services crisis.”
“We believe in making a difference so we’re bringing over sixty different service providers to one place. We are asking that the providers not just hand out information, but provide on-site services,” said RNHF Founder and CEO Sgt. Major (Ret.) Gregory Coker. “Normally it would takea veteran or a homeless individual several months to receive this kind of service we’re providing in one day.”
In the military, a stand down is an opportunity to pause and regroup to help those in need. With this Veterans Stand Down event, two underserved and at-risk populations—veterans and the homeless—will be able to regroup with access to an abundance of resources.
“Veterans will receive surplus clothing, access to medical and dental service, counseling and more. The homeless will receive free food, clothing, haircuts, medical checkups, and showers, said Coker. “We want to give our homeless and veterans a hand up, not a handout.”
RNHF is collaborating with local city, county, state, and federal organizations to host the event.
Key supporters include San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs, VA Loma Linda Veteran HealthCare System, The Salvation Army, United Way, Goodwill, IEHP, Molina Healthcare, San Manuel Casino and Volunteers for Veterans Foundation.
After the event, RNHF is committed to following up on the success of all individuals who register to receive help and will provide 6 -12 months of additional support.
EVENT DETAILS:
October 12, 2022
Perris Hill Park
1135 E. Highland Ave. San Bernardino, CA 92408 10:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Event Website: standdownvet.com
About Reaching New Heights Foundation
Founded in 2013, Reaching New Heights Foundation, Inc. is an award-winning non-profit organization created by a veteran for veterans. It proudly helps Inland Empire veterans successfully transition from active-duty military service, incarceration, or homelessness to life as civilians and productive members of society. Reaching New Heights assists nearly 300 veterans a month with a variety of services including housing, jobs, educational resources, mentorships and more. For more information visit www.rnhf.org
“I was surprised by the great turnout we had at last years Red Kettle Kick Off, and I am hopeful we can repeat that this November,” said Lemann.
“The Salvation Army serves as one of the most trusted and effective providers of services to the hungry, the homeless, the hopeless, the addicted and people in need. Their doors are always open,” said Wilfrid “Bill” Lemann.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.— Local attorney Wilfrid “Bill” Lemann, partner at Fullerton, Lemann, Schaefer & Dominick, LLP, is the Red Kettle Kick-Off master of ceremonies for 2022. The annual start of the Bell Ringing season for The Salvation Army is Thursday, November 17th at 5:30 PM, at the Bear Springs Hotel Events Center, 27923 Highland Ave, Highland, CA 92346.
“I was surprised by the great turnout we had last year, and I am hopeful we can repeat that this November,” said Lemann. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has always been a key sponsor of this event and Tribal Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena will be giving the keynote address this year. She’s an outstanding speaker and always has a message worth listening to.”
Bill Lemann has served as the master of ceremonies for the Red Kettle Kick Off for most of the last 25 years. “His humor, relationships with community leaders, elected officials and lifelong dedication to the San Bernardino community are legendary,” said Brian Cronin the Red Kettle Kick-off Chair. “It is an honor for Bill to be our Master of Ceremonies and help The Salvation Army serve those in need.”
Hungry, homeless, hopeless? trouble paying monthly bills, drug, or alcohol addiction? The Salvation Army helps people in need with all these problems and more. Different programs have different funding sources and one of the most important sources is the annual Red Kettle Kick Off campaign each Christmas season.
The Salvation Army bell ringers in front of your favorite stores collect money that provides food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; food baskets available daily, hot meals, clothing, and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.
During the Christmas season, The Salvation Army also delivers holiday food baskets to about 500 local families and provides toys to children whose parents cannot afford them.
On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations from people who donate to the Red Kettles help make this possible.
“The Salvation Army serves as one of the most trusted and effective providers of services to the homeless, the hungry the hopeless, the addicted and people in need. Their doors are always open,” said Lemann.
Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.
For more information call (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.
PHOTO CAPTION: Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, will deliver the keynote address at the kick-off event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign.
“We are delightedto have Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2022 Ked Kettle Kick-Off,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
REDLANDS, CALIF.—Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, will deliver the keynote address at the kick-off 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 Kick-Off. This year’s event is Thursday November 17th at 5:30 PM.
For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.
Valbuena has held several officer positions on the Business Committee, including Secretary/Treasurer, Vice Chairwoman and now her fifth terms as Chairwoman. Valbuena also has a long history of service and leadership with regional, state and national organizations, including the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations (TASIN), where she is currently serving her 27th year as Chairwoman.
PHOTO CAPTION: Majors Isaias (left) and Adelma Braga.
“We are delighted to have Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2022 Ked Kettle Kick-Off,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “The tribe has supported the mission of The Salvation Amy for decades. We are honored to serve the same community,” he added.
PHOTO CAPTION: Red Kettle Kick Off
Lynn remains focused on serving the San Manuel tribal community and continuing efforts to preserve and strengthen the Tribe’s Serrano culture, governmental sovereignty and the Tribe’s long tradition of service to all who dwell or visit Serrano ancestral lands that includes the San Bernardino valley.
In 2019–20 The Salvation Army served 22,268 households that included 105,602 meals and 10,072 households receiving groceries. The Hospitality House provided 31,534 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 1,612 at-risk children participated in educational and recreational programs.
For Christmas, the Salvation Army creates holiday food baskets for about 500 local families. On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that before covid, historically provided a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations from people who donate to the Red Kettles help make this possible.
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 the mountain communities.
Suggested donation for the Red Kettle Kick Off is $250 per person, 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.
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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 since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. To donate go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org
