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News of Strengthening Philanthropy

Meet Our Members: The Grauer School

Donna Freher-lyons February 12, 2025

The Grauer School, a 7th-12th grade independent, college preparatory school is a proud member of NCPC and welcomes the community to learn more about empowering education here in Encinitas.

In The Grauer School’s balanced, holistic program, students develop the courage and confidence to nurture their unique interests, master academic requirements, and engage in expeditionary learning in our classrooms, community, and around the world. Our learning model fosters real connections, and students have a voice in setting and achieving their goals. All students have access to everything Grauer has to offer, from arts to athletics, STEAM, leadership, community service, world languages, cultural immersion, and more. These opportunities allow them to explore and to develop the skills they will need to create the world they want to live in.

Join us at an upcoming “Discover High School at The Grauer School” event on March 6, 2025 from 9:15-10:30am, where families can hear from our administration and experience a day in the life of a high school Grauer student.

To learn more about The Grauer School and to RSVP, visit www.grauerschool.com or call 760-944-6777.

 

 

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Premier Members Making a Difference: Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego

Donna Freher-lyons February 6, 2025

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego (BGCGSD) has been a member of the North County Philanthropy Council from the very beginning.  Our CEO, Danny Sherlock, was one of the founders of NCPC along with Rick Hendrickson of Redwood Terrace, Myron Lewis of United Way, and Bob Krejci, a fundraising consultant.

We have participated in every in-person Philanthropy Day celebration dating back to the first one, which was held at the Chart House in the Oceanside Marina in 1988.  Our honoree that year was Ruth Mangrum, who was an active volunteer leader and generous donor to our organization.

As our organization has expanded into San Diego and South County, we have continued to derive great benefits from our membership in NCPC.  The relationships we have developed with our fundraising peers and the information and training we have received from NCPC contributed immeasurably to our growth.

Today, BGCGSD has 23 locations within its service area of over 2,000 square miles.  We inspire and enable over 22,000 youth each year to achieve academic success, build good character and responsible citizenship, and make healthy lifestyle choices.  We serve the children who need us most as 72% of Club members live in low-income households.  Our services include after school programs, day camps, licensed child care, nutrition, transportation and much more.

During the past year we have created two new positions: Wellness Program Director and Director of Impact.  The Wellness Program Director is a Licensed Social Worker responsible for our Social-Emotional Wellness Program, which is being piloted at two sites.  The Director of Impact is responsible for collecting data to measure the impact of our programs.  In 2025, we will be hiring a Director of Safety to manage services which enhance the safety and security of our members and staff.

We encourage community involvement and offer a variety of individual and group volunteer opportunities.  Volunteers are needed in programs, to support fundraisers, and for one-time projects.  Please note that opportunities may have time/day restrictions and require background checks.  We offer several ways to support our organization through donations, matching gifts, giving societies, in-kind services, and planned giving.

For more information about BGCGSD, to volunteer or donate, please visit our website at www.sdyouth.org

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Premier Members Making a Difference: California State University San Marcos

Donna Freher-lyons January 30, 2025

 

At California State University San Marcos our mission is student success. We empower our students to transcend barriers faced by earlier generations, strengthen our region with a dynamic workforce, and create a lasting ripple effect that benefits individuals, families, and communities.

We are focused on improving lives while driving broader economic growth and social equity. As a testament to our commitment, CSUSM proudly ranks in the top 1% nationwide in the Social Mobility Index out of 1,400 schools, reflecting our dedication to opening doors for students from all backgrounds.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

CSUSM is pleased to invite fellow NCPC members to our 2025 National Social Mobility Symposium – Driving Social and Economic Mobility: Evolving Rankings, Shaping Policy and Building a Workforce for the Future.

Meet colleagues from institutions nationwide to share insights and explore innovative approaches to supporting student success through partnerships with businesses, K-12 school districts, nonprofits, and the broader community. Together, we’ll advance social mobility and develop solutions that empower students.

When: Thursday, Feb 20 and Friday, Feb 21

Where: California State University San Marcos, 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos, CA

RSVP: Click here to RSVP to this free event today!

Featured speakers include California State University Trustee Wenda Fong and Chancellor Mildred García, alongside an inspiring lineup of students, alumni, faculty, university presidents, and leading experts in social mobility.

For more information, contact Carin Barber at socialmobility@csusm.edu.

…………………………………………………………………………………

NCPC provides a range of professional development and networking opportunities for our University Advancement team. Over the years, our team members have been involved with board and committee leadership and our staff, faculty, and donors have served as featured speakers and panelists at events that bring the community together around important topics and initiatives.

California State University San Marcos was founded in 1989 and first opened its doors to students in 1990. Today, the university offers more than 43 undergraduate degrees, 53 minors, 22 graduate degrees, 14 credential programs, and a joint doctoral program with UC San Diego. With close to 17,000 students, CSUSM is a high-demand, first-choice institution in this region and beyond. We continue to strengthen our partnerships with the community and prepare our students to be the talented workforce needed by local companies.

The university encourages community spectators for our 13 NCAA Division II athletic teams, along with various art and culture events that take place throughout the year. We are committed to building a stronger and more vibrant region by connecting the University to surrounding communities in mutually beneficial ways. CSUSM reaches out to all communities it serves to help address the region’s most critical issues.

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Premier Members Making a Difference: Neighborhood Healthcare

Donna Freher-lyons January 23, 2025

Neighborhood’s Commitment to Health and Community Well-Being
At Neighborhood Healthcare, we’re more than just a healthcare provider—we’re a partner in building healthier, more compassionate communities. Our ongoing membership with NCPC reflects our passion for creating meaningful connections and lasting collaborations. Through this network, we join forces with individuals and organizations who share our vision of a world where quality healthcare is accessible to all. NCPC gives us the tools, insights, and opportunities to amplify our impact and bring transformational change to the communities we proudly serve.

Our Mission: Health, Happiness, and Equity
Imagine a community where everyone—no matter their circumstances—has access to the care they need to thrive. That’s the heart of Neighborhood’s mission: improving health and happiness through high-quality, accessible healthcare. From bustling cities to rural neighborhoods across San Diego and Riverside Counties, we ensure no one is left behind.

Our wide range of services includes Primary Medical Care, Behavioral Health, Dental Care, Women’s Health, Pediatrics, Chiropractic Care, and so much more. But our impact extends beyond medicine—it’s about providing hope, dignity, and a path to wellness for those who need it most. Thanks to the generosity of donors, corporate partners, and our community, “Better Together” isn’t just a motto—it’s the foundation of our success.

Celebrating Successes: A Year of Growth and Gratitude
2024 was a year like no other for Neighborhood. With 5 new sites, we were able to care for over 100,300 patients—totaling more than 500,000 patient visits! Behind each number is a life touched, a family supported, and a community strengthened.

Responding to the increasing healthcare demand, we stayed true to our mission of delivering compassionate care to all and instituted new giving platforms to ensure the sustainability of our mission:

  • Launching our Corporate Roundtable Giving Program, bringing together dedicated partners who believe in our mission.
  • Introducing the 2025 Legacy Campaign, inspiring long-time supporters to make a lasting impact through their estate plans, under the visionary leadership of Bill Smith, Chairman of our Planned Giving Advisory Council.
  • Expanding partnerships with local Chambers of Commerce to host monthly mixers and celebrate ribbon cuttings for our new sites in Hemet, Val Verde, Temecula, and the launch of another mobile dental unit.

Each achievement tells a story of resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our mission. But none of this would be possible without you — our donors, sponsors, and community partners—who stand by us every step of the way.

Looking Ahead: Bridging Gaps, Building Futures
At Neighborhood, we understand that healthcare is more than treating illness—it’s about addressing the deeper challenges that impact health, like housing, education, and income. That’s why we’re expanding our services and focusing on the areas where the need is greatest:

  • A new Lakeside Health Center
  • Expansion of the Escondido Dental Center
  • A new Menifee Health Center
  • The installation of PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) in Murrieta

These projects are more than buildings — they are lifelines for communities in need. Every new site represents a step closer to ensuring that no one has to choose between their health and other basic needs.

Join Us in Transforming Lives
When you support Neighborhood Healthcare, you’re not just giving—you’re investing in hope, health, and the future of our communities. Whether it’s a financial gift, volunteering your time, or spreading the word, you can make a difference.

Let’s continue to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthier, happier life. Together, we can achieve the extraordinary.

To learn more about our initiatives, schedule an informational presentation, or join our movement, contact our Philanthropy Team at philanthropy@nhcare.org or visit https://www.nhcare.org/donate-now/.

For an exclusive guided tour of one of our upcoming medical projects, visit nhcare.org/events.

Better Together, Always.

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Premier Members Making a Difference: SDGE

Donna Freher-lyons January 9, 2025

At San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), our employees feel a strong sense of purpose beyond delivering clean, safe and reliable energy services to our 3.7 million customers. As part of our commitment to the communities we serve, we support a variety of initiatives through shareholder contributions, employee giving programs, and volunteerism.

Our philanthropic strategic priorities include:

  • Climate Action
  • Emergency Preparedness and Safety
  • Economic Prosperity
  • K-16 STEM

To learn more, visit Community | San Diego Gas & Electric.

In addition to our charitable investments, SDG&E employees give back to the community through their volunteerism and nonprofit board service. One of SDG&E’s signature volunteer programs is SDGivE. Through SDGivE, SDG&E supports employees’ dedication and contributions of their time and talent to nonprofit organizations during the holidays.

From November 2024 through December 2024, hundreds of employees participated in 52 projects with 45 organizations, spanning from North County to the South Bay. To cover any costs related to the projects, SDG&E provided grants ranging from $500 to $3,000 to help employees help others. From supporting those facing hunger or to helping rebuild environmental spaces in the region, our employees are dedicated to improving the community we’ve called home for more than 140 years.

If your organization would like to share general volunteer opportunities or if you have any questions, please email sdgecommunity@sdge.com.

SDG&E values your collaboration in advancing a brighter future within the region. We look forward to forging a lasting impact and driving transformational change within the communities we serve.

 

 

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Meet Our Members: Adjoin

Donna Freher-lyons January 7, 2025

 

Adjoin is a state-wide California nonprofit with roots going back to 1983 as the North County Career Development Program. Initially serving new high school graduates with autism, intellectual, and developmental disabilities with vocational training, Adjoin has since continued to reach major milestones in the human services space such as growing our services provided and growing our geographic footprint. Today, Adjoin not only serves individuals with autism, intellectual, and developmental disabilities, but also serves veteran families who are at risk of or are currently experiencing homelessness with benefits advocacy, employment opportunities, and housing assistance.

We create limitless pathways for people to belong where they live, work, learn, and play. People are at the center of our values and are surrounded by integrity, compassion, innovation, and fun throughout our work with them. Adjoin dedicated 2024 as the year of innovation which provided a launchpad to set in motion many great initiatives involving team member engagement, client recognition, modernizing services, and ensuring equitable access through technological investments.

We are also excited to highlight our Path-Now® platform which is shaking up how individuals with autism, intellectual, and developmental disabilities connect with service providers! Path-Now® is bringing services to families, caregivers, case managers, service coordinators, and individuals with disabilities right to their phone through a convenient web-based app. There are over 9,500 service providers and organizations for individuals with disabilities to directly connect with through the app. If you work for a business or nonprofit, claim your free profile today! To experience more features that allow users to easily find your organization, sign up for one of our annual subscriptions that fits your organization’s needs. If your business or nonprofit values innovation and inclusion, you can connect with some amazing individuals like Julie Randolph, a parent who is part of Poway Parent Advocates Seeking Solutions.

“Path-Now®, we needed you yesterday! When we first heard about this resource, we were almost stunned to realize its potential. At its best, the app bridges the gap between the unknown and the known and cuts through months of research self-advocates and parents have done on the journey to resources for optimal quality of life. We found several options for our son on Day One. Looking forward to continued participation!”  -Julie Randolph, Parent

Are you interested in learning more about how your business can benefit? Connect with our Path-Now® team who can present the opportunities this platform has to offer! We want to share this investment in innovation with as many individuals and organizations in the intellectual and developmental disabilities community because we know that everyone has a talent, idea, and place to enhance our community.

As we continue to develop a community that centers our core values and shared mission, the pathways are truly limitless for us and the individuals we serve. To create limitless pathways with us, we invite you to join us on this journey by becoming a Pathway Partner! Join our Pathway Partner monthly giving program and receive a quarterly newsletter, appreciation items, and more! For more information on how to get involved, reach out to us at impact@adjoin.org!

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Meet Our Members: The YMCA of San Diego County

Donna Freher-lyons December 11, 2024

 

The YMCA of San Diego County has been a proud member of the North County Philanthropy Council for many years because of our shared belief in the power of uplifting our communities. With 14 wellness and program branches across San Diego County, plus 3 resident camps, 3 locations dedicated to social services and a planned Escondido Campus of Community Well-Being, the YMCA of San Diego County is the largest YMCA association in the country.

The Y is dedicated to helping thousands of families, adults, and retirees experience a sense of commUNITY and belonging, where everyone is welcomed and valued. Our commitment at the Y goes beyond just physical fitness. We strive to address the social determinants of health through person-centered approaches, responding to community needs, and intending to advance health equity, access, opportunity, and upward mobility, particularly through our positive youth development approach for children and youth programs.

As a leading non-profit, charitable organization, the YMCA of San Diego County is focused on community well-being and belonging every day. Through our programs, memberships, and services, we deliver impact and positive youth development. We want all people to realize their fullest potential through positive, safe and encouraging spaces and programs. We also take pride in providing essential community resources to help those in need. None of this can be done without generous supporters and engaging partnerships across government, education, public and private organizations who make this impactful work possible.

For more information, please visit www.ymcasd.org or contact Development Director, Paula Ford, at pford@ymcasd.org.

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Meet Our Members: Blair Search Partners

Donna Freher-lyons December 11, 2024

 

Blair Search Partners:

Building Stronger Communities Through Exceptional Talent

At Blair Search Partners, we believe that every organization’s greatest asset is its people. Our mission is to empower community-based organizations by sourcing top-tier talent from across the nation. Founded to bring Fortune 500-level recruiting services to nonprofits and public agencies, we specialize in matching organizations with candidates who reflect their mission, values, and goals.

OUR IMPACT in ACTION:

Championing Nonprofits

Unlike traditional search firms, Blair Search Partners works primarily with nonprofits and public agencies. This deep sector focus ensures that every client benefits from a team that understands the unique challenges and opportunities of mission-driven organizations.

Expanding Access to Leadership

Blair Search Partners manages searches for roles at all levels—helping organizations identify leaders who will drive lasting impact. With an unhindered national reach, we benchmark local talent against top candidates from across the country to ensure  the best possible fit.

Advancing Equity and Inclusion

Diversity is at the heart of our approach. To date, the majority of our placements have been filled by women, people of color, and individuals from other underrepresented communities.

Redefining the Search Process

Blair Search Partners’ methodology emphasizes transparency and participation, especially among stakeholders like board members, staff, and community partners. Through focus groups and community forums, we ensure every voice is heard. From there, we create a customized process that aligns with each client’s unique needs.

How Blair Search Partners Benefits Communities:

  • Strengthening Nonprofit Leadership: By connecting organizations with transformative leaders, we help them bring in the right people to achieve their missions and create lasting change.
  • Fostering Long-Term Relationships: We’re more than a search firm; we’re a trusted partner that supports organizations through every stage of their growth.
  • Promoting Diversity in Leadership: Our commitment to inclusive recruiting and hiring practices ensures our clients better reflect the communities they serve.

Blair Search Partners goes beyond recruiting—it’s about building stronger communities, one exceptional placement at a time.

Discover the Blair Search Partners Difference

Join us in shaping the future of nonprofit leadership. To learn more, visit: https://blairsearchpartners.com/

 

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Premier Members Making a Difference: Center for Community Solutions

Donna Freher-lyons November 13, 2024

The mission of Center for Community Solutions (CCS) is to end relationship and sexual violence by being a catalyst for caring communities and social justice. Since 1969, CCS has been providing trauma-informed, wrap-around services to empower survivors as they heal and recover from trauma. CCS’ free services include a 24/7 confidential crisis hotline, four domestic violence shelter programs, housing stability, counseling, legal services, safety planning, prevention education, and more.

Your support matters. This holiday season, CCS needs your help to continue providing these critical services to survivors in need. Every dollar donated keeps comprehensive services available at no cost and allows CCS to save and change lives every day. Please consider Center for Community Solutions for your end-of-year gift or beyond.

CCS supports survivors & prevents assault.

  • All services are free
  • 24/7 confidential crisis hotline: 1-888-385-4657
  • Four domestic violence shelter programs
  • The largest Rape Crisis Center in the City of San Diego, covering most of the county
  • Sexual Assault Services
  • Child abuse treatment
  • Trauma-informed legal services
  • Individual and group trauma-informed counseling
  • Safety planning and connection to services
  • Comprehensive prevention education and outreach

Donations are a lifeline for those affected by sexual assault and intimate partner violence. You can make a difference in a survivor’s life. Every dollar matters. Donate today at ccssd.org.

Contact Info

4508 Mission Bay Drive

San Diego, CA 92109

858.272.5777

ccssd.org

info@ccssd.org

Filed Under: Blog, NCPC News

Meet Our Members: International Relief Teams

Donna Freher-lyons November 13, 2024

International Relief Teams: A Lifeline in Times of Crisis

Our Mission:

International Relief Teams’ mission is to improve the lives of people affected by emergencies and poverty around the world by providing life’s most essential resources of food, water, shelter and medicines.

Since 1988, International Relief Teams has provided over $723 million in assistance to 77 countries. We’re committed to bringing hope and critical resources to those in need, often in areas experiencing unimaginable loss.

Our Impact in Action:

Responding Swiftly to Disasters and Conflict:

When disasters strike, we act. International Relief Teams works with partners on the ground in affected areas to mobilize resources quickly to provide food, water, shelter, and medical supplies. In the past year, we’ve responded to natural disasters across the United States, including hurricane relief in Florida and North Carolina, and wildfire recovery in California and Maui.  Additionally, International Relief Teams partnered with organizations on the ground in Syria, Ukraine, and Isreal to provide 112,000 people impacted by war with lifesaving food, water, and sanitation essentials.

Supporting Global Health:

International Relief Teams work tirelessly to support healthcare systems in under-resourced regions. This year, we provided $45 million worth of essential medicines and medical supplies to hospitals in Syria, Lebanon, and Guatemala. These critical supplies help treat thousands who lack access to even the most basic healthcare services.

Fighting Hunger and Food Insecurity: 

Our programs address food insecurity for communities affected by poverty and crisis. This year alone, we have:

– Delivered 53,500 meals to hurricane-affected families in the U.S.

– Provided 48,180 meals to abandoned and abused children living in an orphanage in Mexico.

Feeding San Diego’s Kids is a weekend food assistance program developed by International Relief Teams. Since 2012, the program has served families with children attending the San Diego Unified School District who have been identified as low-income. All the families served are located in dense urban communities in central San Diego.

Our goal is to pick up where the school lunch program leaves off.  Each week, volunteers fill food packs with nutritional food for a family of 4 for 2 days. At the end of the week, food packs are delivered by volunteers to local schools where a designated School Liaison distributes them to those children in the program.  Last year, 460,800 meals were provided to low-income schoolchildren and their families in San Diego.

Rebuilding Homes for Families in Need
International Relief Teams supports the reconstruction of homes for families affected by disasters or living in poverty, restoring not just shelter but also hope and stability. This year, we helped rebuild and repair homes in areas hit hardest by hurricanes, flooding, and wildfires, giving families a safe place to call home once again.

How International Relief Teams Benefits Communities:

  1. Immediate Relief in Times of Crisis:  International Relief Teams’ quick action in disaster zones provides immediate relief, addressing the urgent needs of families who have lost everything. Our support empowers communities to start the journey to rebuild and recover.
  2. Long-Term Recovery and Resilience:  Beyond initial relief, International Relief Teams invests in long-term recovery efforts. From rebuilding homes and infrastructure, our work helps communities restore stability and resilience.
  3. Improved Access to Health and Nutrition:  By supplying critical medicines and food, we improve the health and nutrition of vulnerable populations. This approach strengthens communities and promotes long-term well-being.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Our work depends on supporters who believe in bringing hope and aid to those who need it most. Your support can help us continue to provide lifesaving assistance to communities in crisis, wherever disaster strikes.

To learn more about International Relief Teams and our work, please visit our website www.irteams.org

Filed Under: NCPC News

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