FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 24, 2025

A good job changes everything: Inland SoCal United Way transforms lives with employment services

[Rancho Cucamonga, CA] — Inland SoCal United Way hosted an inspiring award ceremony celebrating the achievements of community members who transformed their lives through United Way’s employment program.

Held on March 7, 2025, in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, the event recognized eight exceptional participants—Francisco “Javier” Banos, Jenna DeGraw, Eliza Gonzalez, Jack Lewzader, Arthur Ortiz, Michael Rangel, Carlos Solis, and Susan Gomez—who brought together their determination and United Way’s services to chart a new course in their lives after returning to the workforce from challenging times.

“Reentering the workforce wasn’t just about getting a job—it was about reclaiming my life,” said Banos. “The support I received from United Way didn’t just open doors; it restored my sense of purpose. This recognition isn’t just mine—it belongs to every person who believes in second chances.” Banos currently works as a Peer Specialist at Starting Over, Inc., helping others on similar journeys. Other awardees are on career tracks such as social work, logistics, manufacturing, and store management.

Inland SoCal United Way started offering workforce development services in 2018 after responding to thousands of calls from unemployed and underemployed job seekers in Riverside and San Bernardino counties to 211, the 24/7 health and human service hotline. Community members expressed that they wanted to work but kept coming up against challenges such as skill, work history, and job readiness gaps. They also faced stigma and difficulties because of situations such as homelessness, returning to the community after incarceration or military service, caregiving responsibilities, health issues, or long-term unemployment.

“Our staff say, ‘A good job changes everything’,” said Inland SoCal United Way President and Chief Executive Officer Kimberly Starrs. “We’ve seen people reunited with their children, people who have opened a bank account or received a driver’s license for the first time in their lives, and people who have been promoted and are now managers and leaders. Empathetic, well-designed services and a strong support system, which is what United Way offers, let everyone focus on moving forward.”

Since 2018, United Way has trained and supported over 1,200 job seekers and placed over 600 people into quality jobs with living wages and benefits across multiple sectors. They connect people to education, job training, financial tools, and wraparound services to build career pathways. Focusing on in-demand industries that have promising employment outlooks for years to come, Inland SoCal United Way staff have built a strong network of over 100 employers who are ready to support qualified candidates who need understanding and services in their career journey. United Way’s workforce program also partners with over 20 training providers and over 50 nonprofits to support participants.

The award ceremony was hosted by Gracie Torres, District 2 Director of the Western Municipal Water District and Executive Committee member on the Inland SoCal United Way Board of Directors. Event sponsors included contributions of the event space in Rancho Cucamonga from Inland Empire Health Plan, breakfast from Farmer Boys at Haven Avenue in Ontario, coffee from Starbucks at Vineyard & Walnut in Ontario, and pastries from Home Pie Bakery & Cafe in Ontario.

The event also recognized partners who have made a big difference in the last year—Citizens Business Bank, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 477, Beloved Treatment Center, Sierra Aluminum, and Five Guys.

There was a special presentation by Celestina Cantu, Policy Coordinator for Riverside County 5th District Supervisor Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez. United Way staff received special recognition certificates presented on behalf of Assemblymembers James Ramos and Corey Jackson.

“No matter where you come from or what you’ve been through, there are opportunities out there. You just have to keep pushing forward,” said Carlos Solis, a former United Way participant who is now a CNC Machinist, a highly skilled occupation with job stability. “To anyone who feels like they’re stuck, don’t think it’s impossible. If I can do it, so can you.”

More information for prospective participants and employer partners can be found at https://inlandsocaluw.org/workforce-services.

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About Inland Southern California United Way

Inland Southern California United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. For over 90 years, we’ve answered the call, actively listening and responding to local needs. We champion community resiliency, financial security, and health under the values of excellence, empathy, and equity. With over 100 staff members and 1,200 volunteers, we serve 1 million people in Riverside, San Bernardino, and East Los Angeles Counties. Together with community partners and those we serve, we're working towards a future where every person in our communities can achieve what they envision for their lives. To learn more, visit www.inlandsocaluw.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 16, 2024

Inland SoCal United Way to join IEHP Foundation’s Leadership Network

[Riverside, CA] — Inland SoCal United Way has accepted an award from IEHP Foundation to join the Champions for Vibrant Health Leadership Network which brings together 40 community-based organizations and 80 leaders to address social determinants of health in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

“We are investing not only in the mission of these organizations but also leadership for the future of the region,” said IEHP Foundation CEO, Greg Bradbard. “To foster healthy neighborhoods and cultivate healthy living for all residents in the Inland Empire, we need a strong and thriving nonprofit network to address the social, behavioral, and systemic factors that impact a person’s overall health and well-being.”

Over the next two years, IEHP Foundation’s Leadership Network is investing $2.3 million in grants to strengthen the leadership of local nonprofits. A recipient of one such investment, Inland SoCal United Way will receive $130,000 in unrestricted funding, and two of the nonprofit’s leaders will participate in leadership development for organizational growth. In addition to strengthening skills and resources, the two-year network aims to foster collaboration amongst the organizations to collectively influence change and combat systemic health disparities in the region.

Inland SoCal United Way nominated Dr. Danielle Kilchenstein, Executive Director of Government Affairs, and Kristal Granados, Executive Director of Strategy, to represent United Way within IEHP Foundation’s Leadership Network.

"I am excited to join this dynamic network of leaders, working together to drive transformative change and improve the health and well-being of everyone in our region,” said Kilchenstein.

Kilchenstein holds a Doctorate in Public Health from Loma Linda University, has worked on health advocacy with multiple United Ways and the American Academy of Pediatrics, and is a Board member for the Inland Empire Community Health Initiative.

“I look forward to learning from and growing advocacy partnerships with nonprofit leaders across the region. This is an opportunity to work together and align advocacy efforts so that our communities can thrive,” said Granados.

Granados is the former CEO of United Way of the Desert, which merged with Inland SoCal United Way in 2023. She was also the founding Board Chair for Lift to Rise, a collaboration of over 70 partners in Coachella Valley.

This project joins a portfolio of health advocacy at Inland SoCal United Way. Current projects also include a guaranteed income pilot using the Whole Person Health Score, community and family assistance for Medi-Cal enrollment, mental and behavioral health services, and other work addressing the social determinants of health.

“Partnership between nonprofits and leaders is pivotal to advancing health equity for the Inland SoCal Region,” said Inland SoCal United Way CEO, Kimberly Starrs. “Systemic inequity affects thriving across every area of life, and health consequences affect families for many generations. Participating in IEHP Foundation’s Leadership Network will significantly enhance the tools available to our leadership team and organization as we carry forward the essential work of fostering healthy communities for all.”

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About Inland Southern California United Way

Inland Southern California United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. For over 90 years, we’ve answered the call, actively listening and responding to local needs. We champion community resiliency, financial security, and health under the values of excellence, empathy, and equity. With over 100 staff members and 1,200 volunteers, we serve 1 million people in Riverside, San Bernardino, and East Los Angeles Counties. Together with community partners and those we serve, we're working towards a future where every person in our communities can achieve what they envision for their lives. To learn more, visit www.inlandsocaluw.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 23, 2024

United Way Unveils New Brand Strategy to Reflect Its Transformative Approach Forward

[Riverside, CA] — Today, Inland Southern California United Way (ISCUW) joins United Way Worldwide (UWW) to announce a refreshed brand to reflect the organization’s reach and impact in communities as one of the world’s largest and oldest privately funded charities that helps over 48 million people annually, including 1 million people in the Inland SoCal Region. 

“The global brand refresh is a significant milestone in our organization’s 137-year history and represents our commitment to evolve and innovate in order to meet the changing needs of our communities worldwide,” said Angela F. Williams, president and CEO of UWW. “It signifies our organization's longstanding journey, while also embodying our transformative approach to remain relevant, sustainable, impactful now and in the future.”   

United Way’s global brand refresh effort comes at a time when data reveal a decline in the proportion of Americans who volunteer or contribute to nonprofit organizations. Through this renewed strategy, United Way aims to spur greater engagement and action among the public and reinforce what United Way stands for, how it’s different, and why audiences should be engaged with the work of United Way. Underpinning the revitalized brand are four impact areas – youth opportunity, healthy community, financial security, and community resiliency – that highlight United Way's expertise and unwavering commitment. 

“By aligning with the global brand refresh, and further unifying with our global network, our United Way will be better equipped to tackle the unique needs of our community and drive meaningful change in the lives of individuals and families here in the Inland SoCal Region,” said Kimberly Starrs, president and CEO of ISCUW. “This strategic branding approach helps us to better amplify the impact we are having not just in the Inland SoCal Region, but in all communities where we operate.” 

UWW’s global brand refresh was informed by a comprehensive and robust brand discovery process that included both qualitative and quantitative research at the local and global level reflecting the needs of communities.  

Additionally, United Way is rolling out a new branding campaign theme, “United is the Way™.” By activating the United Way name into a declarative statement of purpose, “United is the Way” invites all people and communities to take action and make a bigger impact, together. The brand refresh also includes a revitalized visual identity, in which UWW’s iconic circle of hope logo has been unboxed to signify the dynamic nature of the 137-year-old organization, which – through its deep roots in tens of thousands of communities around the world – listens and responds in real-time to changing, pressing needs. 

UWW’s new brand will be rolled out across all communication channels, including a refreshed website. The organization is confident that the global brand refresh will resonate with its diverse audience and inspire increased engagement and support of communities around the world.  

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About United Way Worldwide
United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our communities, United Way is there. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs. Our reach across tens of thousands of communities means we can share innovations and scale impact to improve lives around the world.  From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential. To learn more, visit www.unitedway.org. 

About Inland Southern California United Way
Inland Southern California United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. For over 90 years, we’ve answered the call, actively listening and responding to local needs. We champion community resiliency, financial security, and health under the values of excellence, empathy, and equity. With over 150 staff members and 600 volunteers, we serve 1 million people in Riverside, San Bernardino, and East Los Angeles Counties. Together with community partners and those we serve, we're working towards a future where every person in our communities can achieve what they envision for their lives. To learn more, visit www.inlandsocaluw.org.  

RIVERSIDE, CA – Pregnant individuals and former foster youth can now apply for a limited time for a chance to receive guaranteed income of up to $750 for 18 months in California’s Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.

Applications are open until October 25, 2024, or until all spaces are filled. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-chance basis. The “first-come, first-chance” basis is part of a research protocol that randomizes and selects applicants for enrollment weekly. Eligible community members are encouraged to submit applications early to ensure that their qualifying information is complete in time for selection.

The guaranteed income pilot is part of a statewide effort to provide unconditional and recurring cash payments intended to support the basic needs of the recipients. Selected applicants will receive $600 per month for pregnant individuals and $750 per month for former foster youth.

Pregnant individuals must be in the first 6 months of pregnancy and reside in Riverside County. Former foster youth may reside in either Riverside or San Bernardino County and apply up to 90 days before or 30 days after their 21st birthday (between January 25 and October 25, 2024). Recipients of guaranteed income will be randomly selected from among eligible applications. The complete eligibility criteria are included in the attached flyers.

First 5 Riverside County is generously providing primary funding for the pregnant population.

To apply, eligible residents of California’s Riverside and San Bernardino Counties may do one of the following:

• Dial 2-1-1

• Call the guaranteed income team at (951) 289-3328

• Self-refer at https://iscuw.wufoo.com/forms/z1u35gwc13l2vfh/

The populations, eligibility, payment amount, and other parameters were set by a statewide framework required by the California Department of Social Services.

Selected recipients will also receive benefits counseling to understand how or if the guaranteed income will affect their existing or future benefits eligibility. In most cases, it does not, but the pilot team also works individually with each recipient to ensure that they have the best possible information to make informed decisions about their participation in the pilot.

Inland SoCal United Way serves 1 million people in Riverside, San Bernardino, and east Los Angeles counties. Established in 1931, Inland SoCal United Way in the last two decades has focused on providing direct services to disrupt cycles of inequity. Their team of more than 150 employees operates 40 programs to improve health, housing, education, and financial stability. They work together with communities, representatives, and leaders to bring awareness, resources, and greater quality of life to every corner of Inland Southern California.

Apply by October 25, 2024, or Earlier!

PALM DESERT, CA – Inland SoCal United Way will host its annual fundraising gala on Friday, March 15, 2024, 6:00 p.m., at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. This will be the first gala held by Inland SoCal United Way since merging with United Way of the Desert last spring.

Hosted by KESQ TV Emmy-award winning anchor Peter Daut, the gala will bring together those who support United Way’s mission to break the cycle of poverty and improve the quality of life for every person in the community. Inland SoCal United Way reaches close to half a million households and serves over 1 million people annually, with the anticipation of expanded scope of services provided within the Coachella Valley from the merger. Funds raised at the event will go towards programs and services within the Inland SoCal region.

The event, produced by Palm Springs-based Momentous, will honor the First 5 Riverside County Children and Families Commission with the 2024 John J. Benoit Community Impact Award. Inland SoCal United Way client Sharmesa Winston will be honored with the 2024 Lisa Wright Spirit of Determination Award and 25-year United Way of the Desert volunteer and former board president Kris Hopping will receive the inaugural Desert Legacy Award.

The evening will begin with a cocktail reception and silent auction followed by dinner and the program which includes an exciting live auction featuring one-of-a-kind Coachella Valley experiences, exciting trips, and other unique items. The gala will conclude with dancing to the Citrus College Night Shift Orchestra whose repertoire includes high-energy hits from pop, classic rock, R&B and more. The evening’s theme is United Together, representing the efforts and impact of the combined organizations.

“We are so excited to be ‘United Together,’” said Inland SoCal United Way President & CEO Kimberly Starrs. “Now that United Way of the Desert and Inland SoCal have combined forces, we have a better ability to provide assistance and offer services throughout Southern California to those who need it most. Everyone attending this gala will have a direct impact on their neighbors’ lives as we continue our mission with their support.”

Event sponsors include US Bank, RBG, El Paseo Jewelers and the City of Rancho Mirage. KESQ-TV is the lead media sponsor. The Desert Sun and Local IQ are media partners.

Tickets to the gala are $295 per person. For additional information, sponsorships, tables, and tickets contact Kristal Granados at KristalG@ISCUW.org or (760) 323-2731 ext. 1004.

Inland SoCal United Way serves 1 million people in Riverside, San Bernardino, and east Los Angeles counties. Established in 1931, Inland SoCal United Way in the last two decades has focused on providing direct services to disrupt cycles of inequity. Their team of more than 150 employees operates 40 programs to improve health, housing, education, and financial stability. They work together with communities, representatives, and leaders to bring awareness, resources, and greater quality of life to every corner of Inland Southern California.

Learn More at https://inlandsocaluwgala.org

RIVERSIDE, CA – Inland SoCal United Way launched a highly anticipated guaranteed income pilot for Riverside and San Bernardino Counties on Thursday.

First announced in November 2022 with the California Department of Social Services award of $5 million, Inland SoCal United Way’s pilot leverages $10 million total in diversified funds to disrupt inequity and test the new solution. Other funding support includes Riverside County’s Children & Families Commission, the Guaranteed Income Pooled Fund, the James Irvine Foundation, US Bank, and private donors. Inland SoCal United Way is the largest of seven sites in California’s first-ever state-funded guaranteed income pilot program. The pilot champions community voice by incorporating feedback from focus groups and community advisory councils that began in October 2023.

Inland SoCal United Way will provide unconditional cash payments of $600 per month for 18 months to 500 pregnant individuals and $750 per month to 120 former foster youth. The pilot uses a randomized controlled trial and will also have a control group that does not receive payments but will receive an incentive to help compare results in the statewide and local evaluations, bringing the total number of participants to 1,240. All participants will receive support with resources and financial stability.

"Today, we take a bold step towards a more equitable future for Inland Region residents,” said United Way CEO, Kimberly Starrs. “The launch of our Guaranteed Income Pilot embodies our commitment to eradicating the barriers that hinder the pursuit of dreams. With the support of our board, funders, and partners, we are sowing seeds of change that will grow into a harvest of empowerment for generations to come."

“A child's health and future success begins in the prenatal stage, and it is crucial that we support parents from the very start. This pilot program focuses on an evidenced, informed, yet innovative approach to creating meaningful change in the lives of Riverside County children and families. Supplemental income for new parents supports a strong foundation for a healthy infancy, childhood, and adulthood,” said First 5 Riverside County Commission Chair Zachary Ginder, PsyD.

“As state-funded guaranteed income pilots launch across the state, we look forward to the opportunity to assess the impact of economic interventions during key life transitions,” said California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Director Kim Johnson. “We are excited to partner with Inland Southern California United Way, who will serve pregnant individuals and former foster youth.”

Inland SoCal United Way serves 1 million people in Riverside, San Bernardino, and east Los Angeles counties. Established in 1931, Inland SoCal United Way in the last two decades has focused on providing direct services to disrupt cycles of inequity. Their team of more than 150 employees operates 40 programs to improve health, housing, education, and financial stability. They work together with communities, representatives, and leaders to bring awareness, resources, and greater quality of life to every corner of Inland Southern California.

Learn More at https://inlandsocaluw.org/guaranteed-income