News of Strengthening Philanthropy

Puzzle Pieces Marketing is a bold, creative, and vibrant nonprofit marketing agency that is proudly Black-owned, women-owned, LGBTQ+ owned, and veteran-owned.

Founded in 2009 by Angel Mason Broadus, the agency is now owned and operated by Angel and her wife, Kristine Mason Broadus. Specializing in Branding, Website Design & Development, Graphic Design, and Copywriting & Messaging, Puzzle Pieces Marketing helps nonprofits and mission-driven businesses tell their stories in powerful and authentic ways.

Rooted in San Diego, they’re more than just marketers—they’re an active part of and deeply involved in the community. From serving as board members and committee chairs to rolling up their sleeves as volunteers, they bring firsthand experience and a unique perspective as a minority-owned small business. Their passion for social impact drives them to build brands that don’t just stand out but truly connect, inspire, and create lasting change.

They take pride in collaborating with incredible people on past and ongoing projects, including:

• MAAC – Brand Refresh and Website Redesign & Development
• San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum – Rebrand and Website Redesign & Development
• California Center for the Arts, Escondido – Strategic Communications Plan
• MOXIE Theatre – Rebrand
• Junior Achievement of San Diego County – Website Redesign & Development
• Community Resource Center – Fundraising Campaigns
• NCAAWA – Branding & Marketing

To see more of their work visit https://puzzlepiecesmarketing.com/our-work/

Giving Back: Puzzle Pieces Marketing’s Commitment to Nonprofits

Puzzle Pieces Marketing is passionate about using the power of marketing to uplift nonprofits that support under-resourced communities and advocate for racial equity, LGBTQ+ rights, affordable housing, education, healthcare, financial literacy, food security, mental health and wellness, employment and workforce development, accessibility, and community development.

Through pro bono marketing services, the agency helps these organizations amplify their voices, expand their reach, and create real, lasting impact. By providing marketing resources and support, Puzzle Pieces Marketing ensures that the missions driving these nonprofits don’t just get noticed—they inspire action and fuel meaningful change.

Visit their website to learn more about Puzzle Pieces Marketing.  https://puzzlepiecesmarketing.com.

 

Guajome Park Academy Foundation and NCPC: A Stronger Community Together

As a proud member of the North County Philanthropy Council (NCPC), the Guajome Park Academy (GPA) Foundation is committed to strengthening our community through collaboration, shared knowledge, and service. NCPC connects us with organizations that share our dedication to uplifting those in need, allowing us to expand our impact beyond the walls of our school. Through this partnership, we gain invaluable insights from experienced nonprofit leaders, helping us grow and sustain our young foundation. By fostering meaningful relationships with other organizations, we create long-term solutions that support not only Guajome Park Academy students and families but also the broader North County community. Together, we can amplify our collective efforts to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

The mission of the Guajome Park Academy Foundation is to provide resources, professional expertise, and financial contributions to support Guajome Park Academy’s goal of inspiring and mentoring all learners to become responsible, critical-thinking global leaders. Through excellence and innovation in education, we empower students with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.

At GPA, we are deeply committed to eliminating barriers to student success. More than 73% of our students live below the poverty line, and over 70% come from underserved communities. We prioritize English Language Development, family support services, and access to fundamental needs such as food, clothing, and healthcare. Additionally, nearly 20% of our students identify as LGBTQIA+, and close to 90 of our students and families are experiencing homelessness. The GPA Foundation works in tandem with the school to provide before- and after-school care, educational opportunities for parents, and a nurturing environment where all students can thrive.

Over the past year, we have made remarkable strides in advancing student success and strengthening our school community. Academic growth has increased across multiple grade levels, and we have continued to see a significant reduction in both chronic absenteeism and suspension rates. Our targeted support services have helped improve living conditions for many families, ensuring that students can focus on learning without the weight of basic unmet needs.

Through dedicated efforts this school year, we have already secured over $50,000 in funding to support student research trips, enhance classroom technology, provide staff development, and enrich learning experiences. With the Foundation’s assistance, the Guajome library has also grown, with more than 200 new books added this school year alone, fostering a love of reading and knowledge among our students.

One of our most anticipated events of the year is Stakeholders Day, taking place on Saturday, March 1st, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This annual celebration showcases the achievements of our students through presentations, projects, and performances, highlighting the progress we have made as a school and as a community. It is a day of reflection, inspiration, and connection, bringing together staff, students, families, and community partners.

Additionally, the GPA Foundation is hosting its first ever Guajome Community Mixer on Friday, May 30th, 2025 at the Vistonian. Tickets will be available beginning March 1, with a special promotion being promoted on Stakeholders Day.

The success of the GPA Foundation and Guajome Park Academy is made possible through the generosity and engagement of our community. We invite you to join us by attending events, volunteering, or contributing resources to help further our mission. Additionally, the Guajome Business Network offers a unique opportunity for local businesses to partner with our school, providing mentorship, sponsorships, and collaborative initiatives that enhance student learning.

To learn more about how you can get involved, visit www.guajome.net or contact Superintendent Kevin Humphrey at humphreyke@guajome.net.

Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient future for our students and our community.

Universidad Popular (UP) is a grassroots community-based education organization, founded in 2012 in North County San Diego by a group of Mexican/Chicana/Latinx grassroots leaders with the mission of nurturing human dignity, multicultural appreciation, and a culture of trust and civic participation in our nation’s democratic process. Specifically, Universidad Popular aims to fill a major gap in human rights education, to foster multi-racial collaboration across agencies, organizations, and communities and to center equity and social justice at the heart of its work.

Universidad Popular brings together diverse leaders and educators with bold ideas to envision and create innovative programs that are culturally/linguistically responsive, data-driven, and social justice focused. The organization employs a three-prong approach that is intergenerational, action-oriented, and culturally responsive.

Programs include:

Citizenship Program – Ciudadanía

Universidad Popular enters its eighth-year teaching U.S. History and Government classes for citizenship with over one hundred adult students currently enrolled in the program. Most work in local restaurants, hotels, farms, warehouses, construction sites, daycares and other jobs that contribute to our thriving economy. Many individuals are attending school for the first time with limited formal education, and many will speak three languages: an Indigenous language, Spanish, and English. They show up with a pencil and book on hand, eager to learn about U.S. history, government, and ways to become more civically involved. The program is free and open to anyone interested in learning. Classes are held in San Marcos and Escondido.

Food Distribution in Pauma

In collaboration with Feeding San Diego and the Pauma Valley Community Center, Universidad Popular had thirty-two food distributions and distributed food to over 6,500 farmworker families in 2024. The food distribution happens every Tuesday and is open to the community.

Listos California

Universidad Popular is part of the statewide network of community-based organizations, Tribal Governments, and Community Emergency Response Teams across the state to boost resiliency, provide accessible in-language information and advance a new culture of disaster preparedness. UP works specifically with Mexican/Latinx immigrants and farmworkers to prepare for wildfires, floods, earthquakes, droughts, heatwaves, and other disasters. UP provides lifesaving emergency preparedness information and tools to help vulnerable Californians thrive post-disasters. Classes are free and open to the community.

Covid-19 Pandemic Recovery

After five years of providing direct services to address the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, Universidad Popular closed its last Covid-19 and Flu Vaccine Clinic in Escondido. Throughout the pandemic, Universidad Popular provided access to life-saving vaccines, Covid-19 tests and masks and education. In 2024, Universidad Popular reached over 50,000 community members in collaboration with Champions for Health.

Workers’ Rights

Universidad Popular is part of the California Workplace Outreach Program (CWOP), a network of community-based organizations conducting outreach and education in working-class communities providing information and resources regarding worker protections outlined in California’s labor code and workplace health and safety regulations.

Immigrant Rights

Through an interactive and interdisciplinary core curriculum that integrates human rights, immigrant rights, Chicana/Chicanx Studies, Ethnic Studies, and Women/Gender Studies, UP teaches about constitutional rights and freedoms and immigration history. In collaboration with Alianza Comunitaria, UP coordinates an emergency alert system using mobile technology to disseminate information and notifications regarding emergencies and immigration updates.

For additional information, visit our website www.unipopular.org.

The Grauer School, a 7^th-12^th 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.

 

 

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

 

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.

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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.

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.

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.

 

 

 

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!

 

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.