2025 Santa Clarita Valley Honorees
Celebrating Volunteers & Supporting Nonprofits
Since 1964
Proudly Announcing Our 2026 Sponsor Organizations
Each year the Santa Clarita Valley Man & Woman of the Year Organization honors the most outstanding individuals making a difference in our community. For 2026, nearly 3 dozen candidates who have shown dedication and commitment have been nominated. Our prestigious Gala event celebrates their hard work and contributions. Be part of this years' inspiring evening filled with stories of passion, service, and impact.
Join us for the Community Recognition Gala on May 1st, 2026! Celebrate the achievements of our community members in a night of inspiration. Honor those who make a difference and enjoy an unforgettable evening together. We look forward to seeing you there!
The College of the Canyons Foundation is a non-profit auxiliary organization dedicated to supporting the College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita Valley, California. It drives philanthropic efforts to fund scholarships, educational programs, and facility improvements, fostering community partnerships that enhance student success and expand access to higher education. Key Aspects of the Foundation: •Mission: To foster community partnerships and secure resources that support student success, innovation, and the growth of the College of the Canyons. •Focus Areas: Fundraising for scholarships, academic programs, and capital projects, such as the Canyon Country campus. •Community Impact: Enhances educational opportunities for over 30,000 students annually in the 367-square-mile service area. •Leadership: Governed by a board of directors comprising community leaders, business professionals, and college representatives committed to the institution's development. The Foundation acts as the primary philanthropic arm, strengthening the college's ties with the Santa Clarita Valley community. The College of the Canyons Foundation, based in Santa Clarita, CA, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established to support the college's students, faculty, and programs through fundraising [38]. Governed by a board of community and business leaders, it manages over $6 million in assets to provide scholarships, enhance facilities, and fund innovative projects [29, 30]. Key Aspects of the Foundation: •Mission: To foster community partnerships and philanthropic support to advance the educational goals of College of the Canyons. •Support & Funding: The foundation awards scholarships, provides grants for new academic programs, and funds special projects like the Basic Needs Center (BaNC) [27, 28]. •President’s Circle: A premier leadership group of donors and community members supporting the foundation's initiatives. •Impact: The foundation supports initiatives that improve student retention, workforce training, and campus improvements [25]. •Events: It hosts community events to raise funds for the college. The foundation plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between state funding and the resources needed for student success.
Dawn Abasta
The College of the Canyons Foundation is a non-profit auxiliary organization dedicated to supporting the College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita Valley, California. It drives philanthropic efforts to fund scholarships, educational programs, and facility improvements, fostering community partnerships that enhance student success and expand access to higher education. Key Aspects of the Foundation: •Mission: To foster community partnerships and secure resources that support student success, innovation, and the growth of the College of the Canyons. •Focus Areas: Fundraising for scholarships, academic programs, and capital projects, such as the Canyon Country campus. •Community Impact: Enhances educational opportunities for over 30,000 students annually in the 367-square-mile service area. •Leadership: Governed by a board of directors comprising community leaders, business professionals, and college representatives committed to the institution's development. The Foundation acts as the primary philanthropic arm, strengthening the college's ties with the Santa Clarita Valley community. The College of the Canyons Foundation, based in Santa Clarita, CA, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established to support the college's students, faculty, and programs through fundraising [38]. Governed by a board of community and business leaders, it manages over $6 million in assets to provide scholarships, enhance facilities, and fund innovative projects [29, 30]. Key Aspects of the Foundation: •Mission: To foster community partnerships and philanthropic support to advance the educational goals of College of the Canyons. •Support & Funding: The foundation awards scholarships, provides grants for new academic programs, and funds special projects like the Basic Needs Center (BaNC) [27, 28]. •President’s Circle: A premier leadership group of donors and community members supporting the foundation's initiatives. •Impact: The foundation supports initiatives that improve student retention, workforce training, and campus improvements [25]. •Events: It hosts community events to raise funds for the college. The foundation plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between state funding and the resources needed for student success.
Taylor Kellstrom
Circle of Hope: Circle of Hope Inc., based in Santa Clarita, California, is a non-profit organization providing free emotional, educational, and financial assistance to cancer patients, their families, and caregivers in the local community. Founded by Colleen Shaffer over 17 years ago, it supports those with all forms of cancer. Key Details: •Mission: To provide support for the physical and emotional well-being of those affected by cancer in the SCV. •Services: Offers, financial aid, educational resources, and, support services, completely free of charge. •Location: Newhall, CA (Santa Clarita Valley). •Support: Funded by community donations and supported by volunteers and local organizations. The organization focuses on empowering patients and, reducing, fear through, community, support.
JCI Junior Chamber International (JCI) Santa Clarita Junior Chamber International (JCI) Santa Clarita, often known as the Santa Clarita Jaycees, is a nonprofit organization and leadership training ground for young professionals and active citizens aged 18 to 40 in the Santa Clarita Valley, California. The organization focuses on creating positive community change through service, while simultaneously providing members with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Key Aspects of JCI Santa Clarita: •Mission: To provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. •Target Demographic: Active citizens, professionals, and community-minded individuals between 18 and 40 years old. •Activities & Projects: The chapter is known for organizing local events, including Santa’s Helpers, the SCV 40 under Forty awards, Get Real Adulting 101, and various community, wellness, and networking events. •Focus Areas: Leadership development, community service, networking, and skill-building. •Structure: As a local chapter of JCI USA and the global Junior Chamber International, they follow a "choose your own adventure" model where members can focus on networking, community impact, or leadership training. The group meets regularly, often hosting social and networking events like "Chat N' Chill" at local spots in Valencia.
Alex Hafizi
Maria Slovtve
JCI Junior Chamber International (JCI) Santa Clarita Junior Chamber International (JCI) Santa Clarita, often known as the Santa Clarita Jaycees, is a nonprofit organization and leadership training ground for young professionals and active citizens aged 18 to 40 in the Santa Clarita Valley, California. The organization focuses on creating positive community change through service, while simultaneously providing members with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Key Aspects of JCI Santa Clarita: •Mission: To provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. •Target Demographic: Active citizens, professionals, and community-minded individuals between 18 and 40 years old. •Activities & Projects: The chapter is known for organizing local events, including Santa’s Helpers, the SCV 40 under Forty awards, Get Real Adulting 101, and various community, wellness, and networking events. •Focus Areas: Leadership development, community service, networking, and skill-building. •Structure: As a local chapter of JCI USA and the global Junior Chamber International, they follow a "choose your own adventure" model where members can focus on networking, community impact, or leadership training. The group meets regularly, often hosting social and networking events like "Chat N' Chill" at local spots in Valencia.
Sharlene Johnson
The Founded in 2011, the WiSH Education Foundation (William S. Hart Education Foundation) in Santa Clarita, CA, supports over 21,000 students in grades 7-12 by funding programs not covered by state taxes. The non-profit bridges funding gaps for special education, arts, career technical training, and student wellness, including operating campus wellness centers and providing technology/resources for disadvantaged students. Key Details: •Mission: To provide supplemental funding for student programs within the William S. Hart Union High School District. •Key Initiatives: Supports 15 campus wellness centers, technology (Chromebooks) for disadvantaged students, and "Living Skills Labs". •Focus Areas: Arts, music, special education, and career/college readiness programs. •Leadership: Features local community advocates, including Executive Director Amy Daniels. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing the educational experience and improving confidence and performance for students across the district.
Dawn Abasta
The LEAP Children’s Museum is a developing, non-profit organization in the Santa Clarita Valley, California, dedicated to fostering a love for learning through hands-on, interactive exhibits for children. Focused on STEM, art, technology, and agriculture, LEAP aims to create a permanent, engaging space for young minds. Key Aspects of the LEAP Museum: •Mission: To provide a dynamic,,, immersive environment for children to explore, experiment, and learn. •Initial Launch: The museum began with successful, well-attended pop-up exhibits, including an inaugural event at Valencia Town Center in summer 2024. •Future Vision: The organization is working toward establishing a permanent, physical museum location in the Santa Clarita area to serve as a cornerstone for community, creativity, and education. •Focus Areas: Activities emphasize science, art, technology, and agriculture to inspire future innovators. LEAP is actively supported by local, community-driven initiatives aiming to provide accessible, high-quality, and educational experiences for children and families in the region.
Kari McCoy
The LEAP Children’s Museum is a developing, non-profit organization in the Santa Clarita Valley, California, dedicated to fostering a love for learning through hands-on, interactive exhibits for children. Focused on STEM, art, technology, and agriculture, LEAP aims to create a permanent, engaging space for young minds. Key Aspects of the LEAP Museum: •Mission: To provide a dynamic,,, immersive environment for children to explore, experiment, and learn. •Initial Launch: The museum began with successful, well-attended pop-up exhibits, including an inaugural event at Valencia Town Center in summer 2024. •Future Vision: The organization is working toward establishing a permanent, physical museum location in the Santa Clarita area to serve as a cornerstone for community, creativity, and education. •Focus Areas: Activities emphasize science, art, technology, and agriculture to inspire future innovators. LEAP is actively supported by local, community-driven initiatives aiming to provide accessible, high-quality, and educational experiences for children and families in the region.
The Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative is a dedicated group of non-profit organizations, businesses, and individuals in the Santa Clarita Valley focused on supporting local veterans and their families. They act as a central hub for accessing community services, providing information on veteran issues, and facilitating assistance for those who served. Key Aspects of the Collaborative: •Mission: Dedicated to serving the interests and needs of veterans and their families within the Santa Clarita Valley. •Services: Offers a "menu of options" for assistance, including connecting veterans to resources, providing information on new services, and hosting events. •Structure: Operates as a collaborative network, bringing together community partners to ensure comprehensive support for the veteran community. •Actionable Support: Encourages veterans to register to stay informed and access needed services. For more information, their official site can be found at scv-vets.org.
Dawn Abasta
Kari McCoy
Ceasar Torres
The Samuel Dixon Family Health Center (SDFHC) is a non-profit organization in California’s Santa Clarita Valley providing affordable, high-quality, and culturally sensitive primary care, dental, and behavioral health services. Founded over 20 years ago in Val Verde, the center specifically serves the uninsured and under-insured through three main locations (Val Verde, Newhall, Canyon Country) and outreach programs. Key Aspects of the Samuel Dixon Family Health Center: •Services: Offers primary care, pediatrics, immunizations, women's health, family planning, and chronic disease management. •Locations: Operates centers in Val Verde, Newhall, and Canyon Country, with additional outreach at the California Institute of the Arts and Bridge to Home. •Mission: Focused on accessibility, providing medical, behavioral health, and dental services regardless of a patient's ability to pay. •Background: Originally established to address the lack of healthcare access in the Val Verde community. The organization focuses on a patient-centered care model, including specialized mental health services and behavioral health programs.
Michael Fisher
The Rotary Club of Santa Clarita Valley, part of District 5280, is a dedicated group of professionals and community leaders serving the SCV, Castaic, and Val Verde areas with a focus on "Service Above Self". Meeting Wednesdays at noon at the Bella Vida Senior Center, they support local, national, and international projects, including scholarships, veterans' causes, and community initiatives. Key Details: •Meeting Time: Wednesdays at 12:00 PM. •Location: Bella Vida Senior Center, 27180 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita, CA. •Focus: Community service, youth scholarships, and local projects (e.g., Saugus High School Peace Garden). •Affiliation: Rotary International District 5280. The club operates as a non-political and non-religious organization focused on making a positive difference locally and globally.
Scott Hoolahan
Formed in 1984, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Foundation (SCVSF) is a volunteer-run non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station. The foundation raises funds to purchase equipment, crime prevention materials, and supports specialized programs to enhance public safety in the Santa Clarita Valley. Key Details: •Mission: To aid local law enforcement through fundraising for specialized equipment, technology, and community-oriented programs not fully covered by the public budget. •Key Initiatives: Supports student-produced videos addressing teen issues, crime prevention programs, and community safety initiatives. •Partnerships: Works closely with the Wm S. Hart School District, local government leaders, and the City of Santa Clarita. •Impact: Acts as a vital bridge between the community and the Sheriff's station to maintain the area as a safe place to live and work.
Michael DeLorenzo
The Raising The Curtain Foundation (RTCF) is a California-based non-profit organization founded in 2018, dedicated to supporting, enhancing, and promoting the Newhall Family Theatre for the Performing Arts in Santa Clarita Valley. Mission and Focus Mission: To enrich lives by fostering creativity, community engagement, and artistic excellence through the revitalization and utilization of the historic Newhall Family Theatre. Goal: To transform the 529-seat, 1941 Art Deco theater into a vibrant, inclusive cultural hub for local artists, students, and educators. Key Initiatives and Programming Saturday's Kids: A signature program providing low-cost, high-quality theater productions for young children. Behind the Curtain Workshops: Hands-on workshops where students explore technical and creative roles, including lighting, sound, costumes, and set design. Cultural Showcase: An annual event in partnership with the Santa Clarita Public Library that highlights diverse local performance groups. COVID-19 Response: During the pandemic, they produced "Talking Backstage" (interviews with industry professionals) and "Storytime with Sir Dude" to support distance learning. Impact and Leadership Grants: The foundation has been awarded California Arts Council Arts and Youth grants to support its educational workshops. Leadership: The board consists of professionals from the Santa Clarita Valley with expertise in theater, education, and non-profit management. Key Personnel: Notable leadership has included Kim Pearlman (President) and Carol Rock (Vice President). The Newhall Family Theatre, which the foundation supports, is located on the campus of Newhall Elementary School and serves as a vital community space.
Carol Rock
The Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley (BGCSCV), established over 50 years ago, serves over 5,000 local youth aged 7-17 across multiple locations, including Newhall, Canyon Country, Castaic, and Val Verde. It is a 501c3 nonprofit offering affordable, safe after-school and summer programming focused on academic success, health, and leadership. Key Aspects: •Mission: Empower young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. •Programs: Focus on education/career development, character/leadership (e.g., Keystone), arts, sports/fitness, and health/life skills. •Locations: Key branches include the Val Verde Clubhouse and others in the SCV area. •Cost & Access: Annual membership is low ($60/first child), with scholarships available. •Safety: Utilizes strict safety protocols, including background checks, mandated reporters, and annual safety assessments. •Impact: Acts as a "second home" for members, offering a, positive, and structured environment. The club is affiliated with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and heavily supported by local, community-driven fundraisers.
Circle of Hope: Circle of Hope Inc., based in Santa Clarita, California, is a non-profit organization providing free emotional, educational, and financial assistance to cancer patients, their families, and caregivers in the local community. Founded by Colleen Shaffer over 17 years ago, it supports those with all forms of cancer. Key Details: •Mission: To provide support for the physical and emotional well-being of those affected by cancer in the SCV. •Services: Offers, financial aid, educational resources, and, support services, completely free of charge. •Location: Newhall, CA (Santa Clarita Valley). •Support: Funded by community donations and supported by volunteers and local organizations. The organization focuses on empowering patients and, reducing, fear through, community, support.
Pamela Verner
WEWil Collaborative The Mission of WeWil Collaborative If you're looking to dive more into personal and professional growth while being surrounded by uplifting, empowering women, WeWil Collaborative workshops are for you! In this video, you'll hear from our WeWil Collaborative leadership team. •The mission of the organization •The vision •The philanthropy •The future
Debbie Holbrook
The Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley (BGCSCV), established over 50 years ago, serves over 5,000 local youth aged 7-17 across multiple locations, including Newhall, Canyon Country, Castaic, and Val Verde. It is a 501c3 nonprofit offering affordable, safe after-school and summer programming focused on academic success, health, and leadership. Key Aspects: •Mission: Empower young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. •Programs: Focus on education/career development, character/leadership (e.g., Keystone), arts, sports/fitness, and health/life skills. •Locations: Key branches include the Val Verde Clubhouse and others in the SCV area. •Cost & Access: Annual membership is low ($60/first child), with scholarships available. •Safety: Utilizes strict safety protocols, including background checks, mandated reporters, and annual safety assessments. •Impact: Acts as a "second home" for members, offering a, positive, and structured environment. The club is affiliated with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and heavily supported by local, community-driven fundraisers.
Dennis Verner
The Samuel Dixon Family Health Center (SDFHC) is a non-profit organization in California’s Santa Clarita Valley providing affordable, high-quality, and culturally sensitive primary care, dental, and behavioral health services. Founded over 20 years ago in Val Verde, the center specifically serves the uninsured and under-insured through three main locations (Val Verde, Newhall, Canyon Country) and outreach programs. Key Aspects of the Samuel Dixon Family Health Center: •Services: Offers primary care, pediatrics, immunizations, women's health, family planning, and chronic disease management. •Locations: Operates centers in Val Verde, Newhall, and Canyon Country, with additional outreach at the California Institute of the Arts and Bridge to Home. •Mission: Focused on accessibility, providing medical, behavioral health, and dental services regardless of a patient's ability to pay. •Background: Originally established to address the lack of healthcare access in the Val Verde community. The organization focuses on a patient-centered care model, including specialized mental health services and behavioral health programs.
Carolina Orozco-Hernandez
Fostering Youth Independence (FYI) in Santa Clarita Valley, California, is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering foster youth, particularly those aging out of the system, to become independent adults. They provide essential resources, including one-on-one mentorship (Allies), academic support, and emergency financial assistance to help youth achieve educational and personal goals. •Key Aspects of FYI SCV: •Mission: To provide personalized support to help foster youth in the Santa Clarita Valley reach their full potential and achieve independence. •Target Population: Foster youth and former foster youth, focusing on those transitioning out of the system. •Core Services: •Allies (Mentors): One-on-one, consistent guidance and encouragement. •Educational Support: Assisting with post-secondary education opportunities and goals. •Resource Navigation: Helping with life skills and accessing community resources. •Emergency Assistance: Providing financial help for critical needs. •FYI works to bridge the gap in support for foster youth, helping them navigate the challenges of transitioning to adulthood by fostering stability and self-sufficiency.
Linda Teeter
The Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative is a dedicated group of non-profit organizations, businesses, and individuals in the Santa Clarita Valley focused on supporting local veterans and their families. They act as a central hub for accessing community services, providing information on veteran issues, and facilitating assistance for those who served. Key Aspects of the Collaborative: •Mission: Dedicated to serving the interests and needs of veterans and their families within the Santa Clarita Valley. •Services: Offers a "menu of options" for assistance, including connecting veterans to resources, providing information on new services, and hosting events. •Structure: Operates as a collaborative network, bringing together community partners to ensure comprehensive support for the veteran community. •Actionable Support: Encourages veterans to register to stay informed and access needed services. For more information, their official site can be found at scv-vets.org.
Stephanie Danyluk
Carousel Ranch in Agua Dulce/Santa Clarita Valley is a premier non-profit therapeutic riding center, founded by Becky and Denise to provide equestrian therapy and vocational training to children and young adults with special needs. Using vaulting, English, and Western riding, it focuses on individualized therapy disguised as fun to improve motor skills, balance, and confidence. Key Details: •Mission: "Therapy disguised as fun" for children with special needs. •Programs: Therapeutic riding, vaulting, and vocational training. •Location: 34289 Rocking Horse Road, Santa Clarita, CA. •Signature Event: Annual "Heart of the West" fundraiser, featuring a, dinner, and riding demonstrations. •Impact: Provides customized, one-on-one, or small-group sessions for students, including those with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities.
John Murray
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Carousel Ranch in Agua Dulce/Santa Clarita Valley is a premier non-profit therapeutic riding center, founded by Becky and Denise to provide equestrian therapy and vocational training to children and young adults with special needs. Using vaulting, English, and Western riding, it focuses on individualized therapy disguised as fun to improve motor skills, balance, and confidence. Key Details: •Mission: "Therapy disguised as fun" for children with special needs. •Programs: Therapeutic riding, vaulting, and vocational training. •Location: 34289 Rocking Horse Road, Santa Clarita, CA. •Signature Event: Annual "Heart of the West" fundraiser, featuring a, dinner, and riding demonstrations. •Impact: Provides customized, one-on-one, or small-group sessions for students, including those with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities.
Chartered in 2008, Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley (SIGSCV) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls through social and economic empowerment. Part of the global Soroptimist network, the club focuses on local impact via mentorship, education, and programs like "Live Your Dream" and "Dream It, Be It". Key Details: •Mission: Providing women and girls with access to education and training to achieve economic empowerment. •Core Programs: oLive Your Dream Award: Provides cash grants to head-of-household women to improve their lives. oDream It, Be It: Offers career support, mentorship, and vocational guidance for girls. •Focus Areas: Addressing women in crisis, women's health, and celebrating achievements. •Impact: The club works locally in Santa Clarita to foster empowerment, while being part of a worldwide network (founded in 1921) aiming for the "best for women". The club is known for its active community involvement, including supporting local agencies and fostering mentorship opportunities for young women.
Missy Carter
The American Cancer Society (ACS) in the Santa Clarita Valley, California, acts as a local branch of the national organization dedicated to eliminating cancer. It focuses on supporting residents through education, advocacy, and patient services, including local fundraising events like Relay for Life. Key efforts aim to improve cancer survival rates and provide support to patients and families. •Mission: To save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer. •Local Focus: The Santa Clarita Valley chapter provides community-specific support and organizes fundraising to support national research and local patient services. •Key Activities: Advocacy for public policy changes, promoting healthy lifestyles, providing patient support (transportation, lodging), and funding cancer research. •Local Impact: Highly involved in local community outreach, with a strong presence in organizing Relay for Life events within the SCV area. •National Context: As part of the nationwide ACS, they utilize resources from one of the largest non-governmental cancer research funders. (Note: While the American Cancer Society is active in the region, Circle of Hope, Inc. is a distinct, local, independent 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Santa Clarita that provides similar direct financial and emotional support to local cancer patients.)
Kathleen Pavard
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The Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society (SCVHS) is a volunteer-driven, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting, and sharing the rich history and heritage of the Santa Clarita Valley. Founded in 1975, the society operates the Santa Clarita History Center at Heritage Junction in William S. Hart Park, offering educational programs, tours, and museum exhibits to foster appreciation for local history. Key Objectives and Activities: •Preservation: Maintaining historical structures, such as the 1888 Saugus Train Station, at the 16-acre Heritage Junction site. •Education: Providing public education through a museum, tours, guest speakers, and a monthly newsletter, The Dispatch. •Community Engagement: Serving as a repository for local artifacts and fostering connection to the area's past. The society works to ensure the valley's heritage is not forgotten, focusing on the preservation of local artifacts and buildings. The Mission of the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society is to preserve and share the culture and history of the Santa Clarita Valley.
Guy Horanberg
The Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society (SCVHS) is a volunteer-driven, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting, and sharing the rich history and heritage of the Santa Clarita Valley. Founded in 1975, the society operates the Santa Clarita History Center at Heritage Junction in William S. Hart Park, offering educational programs, tours, and museum exhibits to foster appreciation for local history. Key Objectives and Activities: •Preservation: Maintaining historical structures, such as the 1888 Saugus Train Station, at the 16-acre Heritage Junction site. •Education: Providing public education through a museum, tours, guest speakers, and a monthly newsletter, The Dispatch. •Community Engagement: Serving as a repository for local artifacts and fostering connection to the area's past. The society works to ensure the valley's heritage is not forgotten, focusing on the preservation of local artifacts and buildings. The Mission of the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society is to preserve and share the culture and history of the Santa Clarita Valley.
Patricia Horanberg
Chartered in 2008, Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley (SIGSCV) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls through social and economic empowerment. Part of the global Soroptimist network, the club focuses on local impact via mentorship, education, and programs like "Live Your Dream" and "Dream It, Be It". Key Details: •Mission: Providing women and girls with access to education and training to achieve economic empowerment. •Core Programs: oLive Your Dream Award: Provides cash grants to head-of-household women to improve their lives. oDream It, Be It: Offers career support, mentorship, and vocational guidance for girls. •Focus Areas: Addressing women in crisis, women's health, and celebrating achievements. •Impact: The club works locally in Santa Clarita to foster empowerment, while being part of a worldwide network (founded in 1921) aiming for the "best for women". The club is known for its active community involvement, including supporting local agencies and fostering mentorship opportunities for young women.
Dennis sugaswara
Chartered in 2008, Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley (SIGSCV) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls through social and economic empowerment. Part of the global Soroptimist network, the club focuses on local impact via mentorship, education, and programs like "Live Your Dream" and "Dream It, Be It". Key Details: •Mission: Providing women and girls with access to education and training to achieve economic empowerment. •Core Programs: oLive Your Dream Award: Provides cash grants to head-of-household women to improve their lives. oDream It, Be It: Offers career support, mentorship, and vocational guidance for girls. •Focus Areas: Addressing women in crisis, women's health, and celebrating achievements. •Impact: The club works locally in Santa Clarita to foster empowerment, while being part of a worldwide network (founded in 1921) aiming for the "best for women". The club is known for its active community involvement, including supporting local agencies and fostering mentorship opportunities for young women.
Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, located in Valencia, CA, is a 357-bed, not-for-profit community hospital and designated trauma center serving the Santa Clarita Valley since 1975. It offers comprehensive services including emergency care, cardiovascular services, a spine and joint program, and a maternity department. Key Details: •Location: 23845 McBean Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355. •History: Opened in August 1975 to serve the growing region, with significant expansions including a new patient tower featuring private rooms. •Services: As a trauma center, it provides advanced stroke, cardiac, and orthopedic care. •Governance: It operates as a community-based, not-for-profit entity. •Leadership: Kevin A. Klockenga serves as the President & Chief Executive Officer. The hospital is known for being the primary healthcare provider in the area and recently marked its 50th anniversary. The Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation is a private family foundation whose mission is “to improve the quality of life within the geographical areas associated with the career and legacy of California pioneer, Henry Mayo Newhall.” Henry Mayo Newhall was a New England Yankee who caught gold fever in 1849 and landed in San Francisco in the Gold Rush. Unable to find gold, he started an auction business in 1851, which thrived. In the 1860s, he established the first railroad from San Francisco to San Jose and in the 1870s used the proceeds to buy Spanish land grants in central and southern California. Along the way he became a founder and benefactor of many charitable, social, and educational institutions in 19th-century California (see the link “About H.M. Newhall”). In 1963, his fourth-generation descendants established the Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation as a tribute to their patriarch. The Foundation is headquartered in San Francisco and is governed by a board of 13 family members. The board meets in the spring and fall to review and approve grant requests from nonprofit organizations and conducts site visits with prospective grant recipients throughout the year. The Foundation endowment, which comes from gifts and bequests from Newhall family members, supports philanthropic activities in the communities where H.M. Newhall lived or had business interests. These communities are the city of San Francisco, the Santa Maria Valley on the central California coast and the Santa Clarita Valley in northern Los Angeles County.
Holly Hanlin
The Santa Clarita Valley (SCV) Senior Center (Bella Vida) is a comprehensive facility in Santa Clarita, CA, dedicated to empowering older adults to live active, healthy, and independent lives. It offers diverse classes, social engagement, and vital services. Acting as a community hub, the center provides educational, recreational, and wellness programs designed to enhance the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the local senior population. Key aspects of the SCV Senior Center include: •Activities & Wellness: Offers classes, social opportunities, and, as noted on the SCV Senior Center website, and the L.A. County website, services in nutrition and health. •Purpose: Promotes independence and community involvement for older adults, serving as a hub for socializing and learning. •Location: Located in Santa Clarita, California, serving the surrounding valley, as mentioned on the L.A. County website. It functions in partnership with community organizations to provide comprehensive resources, as indicated on the National Council on Aging (NCOA) website.
Melanie Meyer
The Santa Clarita Valley (SCV) Senior Center (Bella Vida) is a comprehensive facility in Santa Clarita, CA, dedicated to empowering older adults to live active, healthy, and independent lives. It offers diverse classes, social engagement, and vital services. Acting as a community hub, the center provides educational, recreational, and wellness programs designed to enhance the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the local senior population. Key aspects of the SCV Senior Center include: •Activities & Wellness: Offers classes, social opportunities, and, as noted on the SCV Senior Center website, and the L.A. County website, services in nutrition and health. •Purpose: Promotes independence and community involvement for older adults, serving as a hub for socializing and learning. •Location: Located in Santa Clarita, California, serving the surrounding valley, as mentioned on the L.A. County website. It functions in partnership with community organizations to provide comprehensive resources, as indicated on the National Council on Aging (NCOA) website.
Tom Hartmann
) Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, located in Valencia, CA, is a 357-bed, not-for-profit community hospital and designated trauma center serving the Santa Clarita Valley since 1975. It offers comprehensive services including emergency care, cardiovascular services, a spine and joint program, and a maternity department. Key Details: •Location: 23845 McBean Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355. •History: Opened in August 1975 to serve the growing region, with significant expansions including a new patient tower featuring private rooms. •Services: As a trauma center, it provides advanced stroke, cardiac, and orthopedic care. •Governance: It operates as a community-based, not-for-profit entity. •Leadership: Kevin A. Klockenga serves as the President & Chief Executive Officer. The hospital is known for being the primary healthcare provider in the area and recently marked its 50th anniversary. The Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation is a private family foundation whose mission is “to improve the quality of life within the geographical areas associated with the career and legacy of California pioneer, Henry Mayo Newhall.” Henry Mayo Newhall was a New England Yankee who caught gold fever in 1849 and landed in San Francisco in the Gold Rush. Unable to find gold, he started an auction business in 1851, which thrived. In the 1860s, he established the first railroad from San Francisco to San Jose and in the 1870s used the proceeds to buy Spanish land grants in central and southern California. Along the way he became a founder and benefactor of many charitable, social, and educational institutions in 19th-century California (see the link “About H.M. Newhall”). In 1963, his fourth-generation descendants established the Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation as a tribute to their patriarch. The Foundation is headquartered in San Francisco and is governed by a board of 13 family members. The board meets in the spring and fall to review and approve grant requests from nonprofit organizations and conducts site visits with prospective grant recipients throughout the year. The Foundation endowment, which comes from gifts and bequests from Newhall family members, supports philanthropic activities in the communities where H.M. Newhall lived or had business interests. These communities are the city of San Francisco, the Santa Maria Valley on the central California coast and the Santa Clarita Valley in northern Los Angeles County.
Oscar Dominguez
The Salvation Army Santa Clarita Valley Corps acts as both a church and a community center focused on meeting physical and spiritual needs, including food assistance, shelter, and addiction recovery. Located in the Santa Clarita Valley, it provides essential services like a food pantry, utility/rent assistance, and holiday support to local individuals and families. Key details about the Santa Clarita Valley Corps: •Mission: To provide for the community's needs through food, utility/rent assistance, and addiction recovery services, driven by Christian faith. •Location/Services: Operates as a food bank, church, and donation center, with a notable site located in Canyon Country. •Core Programs: Provides emergency assistance, including food pantries for hunger relief, and helps with household needs to prevent homelessness. •Community Impact: Part of the larger Salvation Army Southern California division, serving the area with a focus on comprehensive social services, including support for seniors and youth. •Donations: Accepts donations of furniture, clothing, and other goods at its Canyon Country location to support its programs.
Amber Rodriguez
The Salvation Army Santa Clarita Valley Corps acts as both a church and a community center focused on meeting physical and spiritual needs, including food assistance, shelter, and addiction recovery. Located in the Santa Clarita Valley, it provides essential services like a food pantry, utility/rent assistance, and holiday support to local individuals and families. Key details about the Santa Clarita Valley Corps: •Mission: To provide for the community's needs through food, utility/rent assistance, and addiction recovery services, driven by Christian faith. •Location/Services: Operates as a food bank, church, and donation center, with a notable site located in Canyon Country. •Core Programs: Provides emergency assistance, including food pantries for hunger relief, and helps with household needs to prevent homelessness. •Community Impact: Part of the larger Salvation Army Southern California division, serving the area with a focus on comprehensive social services, including support for seniors and youth. •Donations: Accepts donations of furniture, clothing, and other goods at its Canyon Country location to support its programs.
Jason Gibbs
Founded in 1974, the Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley (SCV) is a local chapter of Zonta International, a global organization of professionals working to empower women and girls through service and advocacy. Based in California, the club focuses on improving the legal, political, economic, educational, health, and professional status of women in the Santa Clarita Valley and worldwide. •Key Aspects & Activities: •Mission: To build a better world for women and girls by promoting human rights, gender equality, and ending violence against women. •Local Impact: The club is heavily involved in local service, including packing emergency hygiene kits for domestic violence survivors, supporting the Girls' Robotics program with the Boys and Girls Club, and running "LifeForward" workshops to empower women. •Signature Events: The club hosts "Women Who Serve" (formerly the Carmen Sarro Award), which honors local women volunteers, and provides various scholarships, such as the Virginia Wrage Memorial Grant for women in life-altering situations. •Advocacy & Education: Members engage in advocacy, such as working to end child marriage in California, and support youth through Z and Golden Z clubs. •Structure: The club operates with a dedicated foundation, with 82% of funds raised directly supporting programs and services. •The club is known for its active role in the community and its, sometimes, inclusion of men in supporting roles ("Unzons") to further their mission.
Bridge to Home (BTH) is a Santa Clarita-based non-profit with over 28 years of experience providing emergency shelter, case management, and support services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Based in a new, expanded facility opened in July 2024, they offer 24/7 care, including meals, showers, and laundry, with a focus on transitioning residents to permanent housing. Key Details: •Mission: Providing hope, safety, and a pathway from homelessness to permanent housing. •Services: Offers comprehensive support, including on-site case management, health services, education, and meals. •Facilities: Operates a new shelter in Newhall that serves roughly 60+ individuals, including dedicated spaces for families. •Community Support: Relies on dedicated volunteers, community partners, and donors. With a focus on compassionate care, Bridge to Home aims to foster self-sufficiency and help individuals regain their self-respect.
Cherise Moore
Bridge to Home (BTH) is a Santa Clarita-based non-profit with over 28 years of experience providing emergency shelter, case management, and support services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Based in a new, expanded facility opened in July 2024, they offer 24/7 care, including meals, showers, and laundry, with a focus on transitioning residents to permanent housing. Key Details: •Mission: Providing hope, safety, and a pathway from homelessness to permanent housing. •Services: Offers comprehensive support, including on-site case management, health services, education, and meals. •Facilities: Operates a new shelter in Newhall that serves roughly 60+ individuals, including dedicated spaces for families. •Community Support: Relies on dedicated volunteers, community partners, and donors. With a focus on compassionate care, Bridge to Home aims to foster self-sufficiency and help individuals regain their self-respect.
