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News of Strengthening Philanthropy

Meet Our Members: The YMCA of San Diego County

 

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.

Meet Our Members: Blair Search Partners

 

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/

 

Premier Members Making a Difference: Center for Community Solutions

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

Meet Our Members: International Relief Teams

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

Meet Our Members: Boys and Girls Club of Vista

The Boys & Girls Club of Vista (BGCV) provides safe, fun, and quality youth development programs for kids ages 5-18 at 7 sites in Vista & Oceanside. The Club uses nationally recognized programs that focus on academic enrichment, STEM, sports and recreation, workforce development, performing arts and healthy lifestyles. BGCV is open “when kids need us most” – after school, most school holidays and during the summer. The Club offers a variety of financial assistance, so no child is turned away. 

Founded in 1963, BGCV believes in a mission that empowers every Club member, through safe and impactful experiences to: 

  • Graduate high school with a plan for college or a career.
  • Contribute to their community.
  • Live a healthy life.

BGCV never takes a single approach to help kids succeed. It takes caring mentors, such as our trained Club staff. It takes a safe place that is consistently there for the kids they serve. It takes innovative, quality programs designed to empower youth to excel in school and lead healthy, productive lives. We do whatever it takes to ensure all kids have a great future. 

BGCV is committed to changing lives. By measuring how much Club kids and teens are achieving, we can determine how effectively the Club experience is helping local youth build great futures.

  • 96% of BGCV Club youth believe they will graduate high school and continue education through college, trade school or the military.
  • 100% of Club teens are at grade level.
  • 92% of Club kids feel safe at the Club compared to other places.
  • 96% of Club members have done things to help their community.

Please save the date for our 2025 Gala, Saturday, March 1st at the Westin in Carlsbad. In addition to the gala, we welcome the community to participate in future community events such as:

  • Embrace a Family
  • Youth of the Year
  • Kids Night Out
  • Summer Camp Community BBQ
  • Career Launch Field Trips
  • Community Back to School Bash
  • Golf Tournament

Please join us in our quest to provide more youth with the opportunities and skills they need to achieve GREAT FUTURES. Learn more about us at bgcvista.org.

 

Meet Our Members: TURN BHS

TURN Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to transforming lives through compassionate behavioral health care and personalized support. Our evidence­-based programs empower individuals to overcome challenges, build resilience, and thrive. With a focus on community and holistic well-being, we offer a wide range of services for individuals and families.  Discover how TURN BHS is making a difference –

At TURN BHS, we are committed to Improving Lives. Since our founding, we have worked to provide innovative and compassionate mental health care, supporting individuals, families, and communities throughout the County of San Diego. Our mission is to empower people facing behavioral health challenges by offering comprehensive, evidence-based services that promote recovery, resilience, and overall well-being.

Our Services:

  • Therapeutic Counseling: Individual and group therapy sessions focused on mental wellness and emotional health.
  • Substance Use Treatment: Specialized programs designed to help individuals overcome addiction and build a sober, healthy future.
  • Support for Military Families: Resources and counseling tailored to the unique needs of servicemembers and their loved ones.
  • Youth and Family Programs: Services aimed at supporting young people and their families through challenges, promoting healthy growth and recovery.
  • Employment Assistance: Helping those with diagnosed severe mental illnesses find and maintain meaningful employment through job training and partnerships with local businesses.

Our History:

TURN BHS has a long-standing legacy of serving the community since our inception. Over the years, we’ve expanded our reach and enhanced our services to meet the ever-growing need for mental health support across California.  We’ve remained dedicated to our core values: Compassion, Integrity, Inclusion, and Excellence.

Our Impact:

By partnering with the cities within San Diego County and North County, including El Cajon, San Diego, Chula Vista, Fallbrook, San Marcos and many more, working together to build stronger, healthier communities.  TURN BHS plays a crucial role in delivering accessible and effective behavioral health services to underserved populations. We work closely with local agencies, employers, and community organizations to ensure individuals receive the care and resources they need to thrive. We believe in building a brighter, healthier future for everyone we serve.

Explore how TURN BHS is changing lives and strengthening communities. Together, we can make an even greater impact.  www.turnbhs.org

Meet Our Members: High Five Career Coaching

Partners of Choice

We aim to be your partner of choice. High Five Career Coaching is a dynamic organization that facilitates sustainable transformation within social impact organizations and has cultivated a diverse team of coaches, trainers, and consultants. We are available to partner with you and develop customized solutions while supplementing your internal resources with additional expertise, versatility, and capacity for your programs and initiatives. To learn more about High Five, please visit mikegellman.com.

Community Leadership

High Five is pleased to convene regular Nonprofit NetWalks! These are free, accessible, and inspirational networking walks that bring together nonprofit leaders, philanthropists, board members and supporters while shining a spotlight on host nonprofits. We’ve just celebrated two years of NetWalks hosted by 30+ nonprofits from our community who’ve experienced the magic.

High Five 7863

New Mastermind Groups!

We recently completed our inaugural cohort group this summer and have since redesigned our mastermind groups to make them more accessible with in-person and remote options. We now offer quarterly, one-day Nonprofit Executive Mastermind Retreats on the beautiful grounds of Leichtag Commons as well as a Monthly Nonprofit Executive Mastermind Group. Our first retreat kicks off October 24 and our first monthly mastermind begins November 14! Leaders are invited to choose their own learning journey tailored to their specific development needs and budget. Click here for details and sign up today or contact Mike at mike@mikegellman.com.

High Five Mastermind

About High Five

Mike Gellman founded High Five Career Coaching in 2016 after a career with the San Diego Zoo, Father Joe’s Villages and Sempra Energy where he developed expertise in organizational development and talent management. With a Master’s in I/O Psychology, he’s also a certified coach and author of the book Pipe Dreams: 7 Pipelines of Career Success. Mike is the proud father of a college senior, Jonas, and lives in Oceanside.

Our values of integrity, impact, excellence, connection, growth and courage are at the core of our key services include Executive Coaching, Succession/Strategic Planning, Teambuilding, Conflict Resolution and Training.

https://www.mikegellman.com/

Meet Our Members: Foundation for Developmental Disabilities

For nearly four decades, the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) has been dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) in San Diego and Imperial Counties. With a mission to generate and distribute funds for innovative programs, FDD focuses on four key impact areas: Employment, Family Support, Housing, and Self-Advocacy. These initiatives provide equitable access to opportunities, empowering individuals with IDDs to reach their full potential.

Season of Sharing Brings Holiday Joy

As the holiday season approaches—traditionally filled with joy and family gatherings—many families served by the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC) face overwhelming financial challenges. FDD has launched the Season of Sharing program to support these families, a heartfelt initiative that significantly impacts those in need. This program provides gift cards to SDRC clients, a lifeline for families who might otherwise struggle to afford holiday celebrations. Your support can make a significant difference in these families’ lives. 

Your support can make a significant difference in these families’ lives. With the number of SDRC clients increasing by 4,000 last year alone, the need for donations and sponsorships is more critical than ever. Each contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure that families experiencing financial hardship can still enjoy the warmth and joy of the holiday season.

Last year, FDD’s fundraising efforts raised nearly $20,000, providing essential assistance to approximately 135 SDRC families. FDD aims to raise $30,000 this year to meet the community’s growing needs. Achieving this ambitious goal relies on the generosity of community partners, sponsors, and supporters like you. Your contribution, regardless of size, is vital in reaching this goal. You have the power to make a difference.

Businesses and organizations can also significantly impact the community through sponsorship opportunities, showcasing their commitment to community well-being. Sponsorship supports SDRC families and offers positive visibility for your organization. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, don’t hesitate to contact Jill Weber, FDD Development and Marketing Manager, at jweber@foundationfordd.org or 858-256-2222.

Season of Sharing Event Details:

  • Date: Sunday, November 17th, 2024
  • Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM 
  • Location: Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, 2816 Historic Decatur Rd, Unit 116, San Diego, CA 92106
  • Family-Friendly Fun: Spend a delightful afternoon with loved ones, enjoying lawn games, holiday shopping, and the spirit of giving.
  • All-Inclusive Experience: Your ticket includes access to a hosted reception with delicious appetizers, two drink tokens, and the opportunity to connect with fellow supporters.

With your help, we can ensure every family experiences the joy of the holidays, regardless of their circumstances. Make a difference this holiday season by contributing to the FDD’s Season of Sharing program. Your generosity is crucial to bringing the season’s true spirit to our IDD community. Together, we can make the holidays a time of joy for everyone. Your support can inspire hope and joy in the IDD community. 

To purchase tickets, donate, or sponsor, please visit:

https://seasonofsharing2024.causevox.com/

https://www.foundationfordd.org/seasonofsharing2024

Premier Members Making a Difference: Davis Farr LLP

 

Davis Farr LLP: Your Trusted Partner for Nonprofit Financial Excellence

 

As an NCPC member, our mission is to provide tailored audit and tax services to nonprofits, support their growth and success, and actively engage with the nonprofit sector through community involvement and board participation to share best practices and foster positive community impact.  We benefit from valuable networking opportunities, professional growth through workshops and webinars, and the chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations passionate about philanthropy.

We offer valuable contributions through our specialized accounting services, community involvement, and board participation, enabling nonprofits to navigate financial complexities and thrive in their missions.  Nonprofits face numerous issues while striving to fulfill their missions. At Davis Farr, we recognize the unique needs of the nonprofit community, and our team is committed to providing tailored support that goes beyond standard accounting services. We understand that the success of nonprofits goes hand in hand with the communities they serve, and we actively seek opportunities to give back and make a positive impact.

In October, we will participate in a major community event, the One OC Community Cup, a charitable outdoor field event participating in athletic games in support of local nonprofits.  Our firm will also be hosting families for the holidays to provide meals & gifts to the less fortunate individuals in our local communities.

At Davis Farr LLP, we go beyond traditional accounting services to serve as your dedicated partner in nonprofit financial excellence. Our expertise and active involvement in the nonprofit sector enable us to provide tailored support, helping your organization achieve its mission and drive meaningful, positive change in the community.

Shannon Ayala, CPA | Partner

Email: sayala@davisfarr.com

Meet Our Members: Lifeline Community Services

Lifeline Community Services: Paving Pathways to Resilience Across San Diego County

 

As Lifeline Community Services prepares for its upcoming Viva La Vida fundraiser on September 27, 2024, the organization is reflecting on decades of service and embracing new leadership under CEO Lisette Islas. The event, to be held at the Intercontinental San Diego, will be an evening of celebration, honoring community champions and highlighting the transformative programs that have supported San Diego County’s most vulnerable populations for over 50 years.

 

With deep roots in North County, Lifeline has grown to serve all of San Diego County, empowering youth, adults, and families through critical services that foster self-reliance and personal growth. Each year, Lifeline reaches over 26,000 individuals through its wide range of programs, including behavioral health, youth development, housing support, and survivor services for victims of human trafficking. By addressing these essential needs, Lifeline continues to create a lasting positive impact throughout the region.

 

This year’s Viva La Vida is particularly meaningful as it marks a new chapter for the organization with the leadership of Lisette Islas, who became CEO in early 2024. Lisette has already made strides in advancing Lifeline’s mission of inclusive economic development, focusing on expanding opportunities for underserved communities and fostering strong, collaborative partnerships across San Diego County.

The event will also honor two remarkable leaders whose work has deeply impacted the community. District Attorney Summer Stephan will receive the Beacon of Hope Award for her relentless dedication to fighting human trafficking. Her collaboration with Lifeline’s Project LIFE program has been vital in providing survivors with crucial support. Additionally, Norma Diaz, CEO of Community Health Group, will be presented with the Spirit of Lifeline Award in recognition of her incredible journey from intern to CEO and her unwavering commitment to expanding healthcare access for underserved populations. Both leaders represent the resilience and hope that Lifeline seeks to inspire in every individual they serve.

 

U.S. Bank will serve as the title sponsor for Viva La Vida 2024, underscoring the importance of community partnerships in supporting Lifeline’s essential services. Their continued support ensures that Lifeline can keep making a difference in the lives of those who need it most throughout San Diego County.

 

As Lifeline looks to the future, its mission remains steadfast: building stronger communities by empowering individuals to achieve self-sufficiency and resilience. Viva La Vida 2024 will be a celebration of past achievements and a call to action for ongoing collaboration and community support to ensure a brighter future for all of San Diego County.

 

To purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities for Viva La Vida, visit vivalavidalifeline.com.