SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The San Bernardino Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, in partnership with the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce and YouthBuild Charter School – Inland Empire, proudly announces the 5th Annual Gala Celebration, an evening dedicated to honoring the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This milestone event, themed “Echoes of Freedom as We Continue Marching Forward,” will shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of community leaders, businesses, and organizations throughout San Bernardino County and beyond.
Set to take place on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM at The Enterprise Building in San Bernardino, the gala promises an unforgettable experience. Guests will enjoy a formal dinner, live entertainment, and an inspiring award ceremony recognizing those who have made significant impacts within the community.
Among this year’s honorees are individuals and organizations whose efforts embody the spirit of service and leadership. Bryan Wing, a dedicated advocate for the performing arts in the San Bernardino City Unified School District, will be celebrated, along with Dee Goins for her invaluable role as a liaison for the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce. The Pomona Valley Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. will receive the Community Service Award, while Dr. Kim Carter-Tillman of the Time for Change Foundation will be honored for her commitment to family engagement. Felicia Alexander, a devoted board member of the San Bernardino City Unified School District, will be recognized as an ambassador for the chamber, and Patricia Nickols-Butler of Community Action Partnership San Bernardino will receive the Non-Profit Service Award.
Robert Porter, host of I Love San Bernardino Radio, will be acknowledged for his contributions to communications, while the San Bernardino City Unified School District will be honored as a community partner. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians will be recognized for their civic engagement, and Shiekh Shoes Impact Center for their commitment to community engagement. Additionally, Terrance Stone, founder of Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy, will be celebrated as a community leader, and The Enterprise Building will receive the Business Service Award for its role in supporting local growth.
The evening is not only a celebration of achievements but also a call to action. Proceeds from the gala will benefit YouthBuild Inland Empire, an innovative program under the YouthBuild Charter School of California that empowers students aged 16-24 to earn their high school diplomas. Through a project-based curriculum, YouthBuild prepares young people for future careers while instilling the values of education and community service.
Tickets for the gala are now available on the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce website. The San Bernardino Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee invites everyone to join this celebration, honoring the legacy of Dr. King while supporting the next generation of leaders poised to make a difference.
For more information, visit blackchamberofcommerce.org/mlk-parade-copy. Together, let us continue marching forward, echoing the dreams of Dr. King for generations to come