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Relief fund offering critical financial assistance to help ease the burden and restore hope for affected students and families—donate today

WASHINGTON, DC—In the wake of the devastation caused by the Los Angeles wildfires, UNCF and the UNCF Los Angeles office are stepping in to provide a lifeline for HBCU students and children of alumni, ensuring that education remains a beacon of hope amidst the crisis. With critical financial support from partners and donors, UNCF is making it possible for affected students to continue their education and families to stay on track with their rebuilding process.

To help alleviate hardships confronting impacted students and families, UNCF has launched the UNCF Los Angeles Area Wildfire Relief Fund through three specific programs, offering critical financial assistance to eligible students and alumni. To date, more than 300 students have already applied for assistance, demonstrating the urgent need for support during this crisis.

The relief fund is available to undergraduate and graduate students attending HBCUs; the children of HBCU alumni who have suffered losses due to the wildfires; students attending any accredited, four-year college or university whose families have been directly impacted by the wildfires.

Also, there is an opportunity for donors to support the relief fund. Donations—no matter the size—will play a vital role in ensuring these students can recover and continue their education. With the generosity of donors, together we can provide the stability and support these students need to rebuild their future.

UNCF is committed to ensuring that HBCU students and alumni affected by natural disasters receive the financial support necessary to stay on track with their education and move on with their lives. By providing emergency aid, UNCF aims to ease the burden on students and families, helping them to recover and focus on academic success.

“UNCF’s Los Angeles Area Wildfire Relief Fund is more than just financial assistance; it’s a lifeline for students and families striving to reclaim their dreams after the devastation of the LA wildfires,” said Dr. Veda Ramsay Stamps, regional development director, Los Angeles, UNCF. “In the face of adversity, the spirit of community shines brightest. Our fund will help us to restore hope and opportunity for those students and families affected by the wildfires.”

What Does the Fund Cover? 

Eligible recipients may receive financial assistance for tuition and fees, housing, books, meals and other essential education-related costs.

When to Apply 

Applications are now open! Submissions will be accepted on a rolling basis through the

2025 admissions cycle.

Eligibility Criteria 

Program #1: HBCU Undergraduate and Graduate Student Aid 

• Student or custodial/contributing parent(s)/guardian(s) living in a wildfire-impacted area and who has suffered a wildfire-related loss.

• No financial need required, but FAFSA completion (2024-25 or 2025-26) is necessary.

• Must be currently enrolled in good academic standing or admitted for fall 2025 enrollment at an accredited UNCF-member institution or other four-year, accredited HBCU.

Program #2: HBCU Alumni Emergency Aid 

• The child of a graduate or a graduate of a UNCF-member institution or other accredited four-year HBCU.

• Has suffered wildfire-related losses.

• Currently enrolled in good academic standing or admitted for fall 2025 enrollment in a graduate or professional degree program at any accredited college or university.

• Resides in the impacted area and is a custodial/contributing parent/guardian to a current college student in good academic standing or a student admitted for fall 2025 enrollment at any HBCU or four-year accredited college or university.

• FAFSA completion required (2024-25 or 2025-26).

• Priority is given to students attending UNCF-member institution or other four-year HBCUs.

Program #3: General Undergraduate and Graduate Student Aid 

• Student or custodial/contributing parent(s)/guardian(s) living in a wildfire-impacted area and who has suffered a loss.

• No financial need required, but FAFSA completion (2024-25 or 2025-26) is necessary.

• Must be currently enrolled in good academic standing or admitted for fall 2025 enrollment at any accredited four-year college or university.

Additional Information 

• Students with no financial need are still eligible as long as they complete the FAFSA (2024-25 or 2025-26).

• No cap on the amount of financial assistance requested.

• UNCF will provide resources to help students navigate institutional emergency aid programs.

• Any unexpended funds will go to UNCF’s general disaster relief fund.

For more information on eligibility, the application process, and how to apply, click here.

To donate to UNCF’s Los Angeles Area Wildfire Relief Fund, click here.

MORENO VALLEY, CA— The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness announces an African American Tea for the Soul. In this supportive environment, Black women can explore essential practices of self-care, mental health, wellness, and healing. The Tea is Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at CrossWord Church, 21401 Box Springs Road, Moreno Valley, CA. Doors will open at 2:30 PM, and dinner will be served at 3:15 PM.

Sharron Lewis, the Behavioral Health Committee chair, said, “The highlight of the afternoon will be renowned guest speaker Jewel Diamond Taylor, affectionately known as ‘The Self-Esteem Dr.’ Jewel has been a leading motivational speaker since 1984, empowering millions with her holistic approach to faith, culture, psychology, emotional well-being, and personal success.”

As the author of bestselling titles such as Success Gems and ShiFt Happens, Jewel utilizes humor and storytelling to encourage resilience and inner peace among her audience. In addition to receiving an honorary doctorate in divinity in 2019, she also garnered an Emmy Award in 2021 for her work on a documentary about race relations in Norway.

This event is sponsored by the Coalition for Black Health and Wellness, Behavioral Health Committee, Riverside Community Health Foundation, and Dameron Communications in collaboration with CrossWord Church.

Empower You Edutainment provides entertainment for the event. Upon arrival, participants will be welcomed by African drumming. The entertainment also includes spoken word performances, a live band, storytelling, participatory dancing, a theatrical presentation, and dancers.

“Join us for an inspiring afternoon of growth, connection, and empowerment as we support the mental and emotional well-being of Black women in our community.  You don’t want to miss Jewel Diamond Taylor, who brings her transformative message from stages across the globe, sharing strategies for overcoming self-doubt and building confidence,” said Lewis.

Space is limited for this sponsored opportunity, so we encourage everyone to save their spot at https://bit.ly/tea4thesoul25?r=qr.

The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness Behavioral Health Committee members are Sharron Lewis, Chair; Phyllis Clark, Dr. Carolyn Murray, and Shor Denny.

For more information or to become a vendor, text Sharron Lewis at 213-359-8639.  For more information on Jewel Diamond Taylor, go to https://jeweldiamondtaylor.com/

INLAND EMPIRE, CA— College acceptance and financial aid letters are arriving soon, and high school seniors and college students have a major opportunity to ease their higher education costs through the CalKIDS program. CalKIDS is the nation’s largest child development account program, providing scholarships for higher education. This statewide initiative, administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, provides eligible California public school students with CalKIDS Scholarships worth up to $1,500—helping them take the next step toward college or career training by easing financial barriers to higher education.

In Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, more than $332 million in CalKIDS Scholarships has been made available to public school students over the last three years, providing critical financial support for their higher education. A CalKIDS Scholarship does not require students to submit essays, meet a minimum GPA, or provide recommendation letters. Claiming a scholarship is simple and takes just minutes at CalKIDS.org.

“CalKIDS is an incredible resource for Inland Empire families,” said State Treasurer Fiona Ma, chair of the ScholarShare Investment Board. “Claiming a CalKIDS Scholarship is the easiest step students can take on their path to higher education, and we want every eligible student to claim their scholarship account and take full advantage of this opportunity.”

Eligible students can use their CalKIDS Scholarship Accounts for tuition and fees, books and supplies, and computer equipment. Since 2022, approximately $1 billion in CalKIDS Scholarships have been made available to more than 2 million of California’s public high school students.

For students like Samantha from Moreno Valley College, the CalKIDS Scholarship was a game-changer. “I felt very fortunate and less stressed … it was a huge help. I used the money for books and testing materials for school.”

For Johanny from California State University, San Bernardino, the CalKIDS Scholarship provided some much-needed financial relief. “I had to work 2 jobs to pay for parking and books… I felt so relieved that I could finally pay for bills at university.”

To get the word out about this amazing program in Inland Empire and ensure students and families are aware of and claim their CalKIDS Accounts, the ScholarShare Investment Board has worked diligently to establish strong partnerships with high schools, school districts, community-based organizations, and financial aid directors at community colleges and universities. Partnerships with organizations like Growing Inland Achievement, UC Riverside Early Academic Outreach Program, and more play a vital role in spreading awareness and helping students access the funds available to them.

Claiming a CalKIDS Scholarship is quick and easy. Families simply need the student’s Statewide Student Identifier (SSID), a ten-digit number which can be obtained by contacting their school directly. Once they have the SSID, parents or students can visit CalKIDS.org to check eligibility and claim a scholarship account in just minutes.

The funds can be used at accredited colleges, universities, trade schools, and career programs across the country. Once enrolled in a higher education program, students can log into their CalKIDS Account to request a distribution directly to their school to cover qualifying educational expenses.

“Studies show that students with just $500 or less set aside for college are three times more likely to attend college and four times more likely to graduate,” said Cassandra DiBenedetto, Executive Director. “CalKIDS Accounts are more than financial assistance—they’re an investment in students’ futures, and we want to give every one of these students a reason to believe in their path to higher education.”

With roughly 7 out of 10 public school students in the Inland Empire eligible for a CalKIDS Scholarship and key college decisions and financial aid deadlines approaching, now is the time for students and families to check their eligibility and claim their scholarship account.

For more information on eligibility, scholarship amounts, and how to claim a CalKIDS Scholarship Account, visit CalKIDS.org.

YUCAIPA, CA— A 10-year-old girl from San Bernardino, Calif., is set to make Crafton Hills College history this May when she becomes the youngest Roadrunner ever to graduate from the Yucaipa-based community college.

Alisa Perales, who will have just turned 11 at the time of the ceremony, will cross the stage with not one but two associate degrees—one in multiple sciences and another in mathematics—joining hundreds of Roadrunners who will become Crafton alumni. Her final GPA will be “close” to a 4.0.

Remarkably, Alisa could have earned two additional degrees in computer science and physics had she stayed one more semester.

“When I first started at Crafton (at the age of 8), I was a little bit nervous…because this was my first time going to a public school,” said Alisa, “but then I met some really nice people, and that was super helpful.”

Alisa’s love for learning began early. By her first birthday, she had already moved beyond basic ABCs and 123s. Guided by her father, Rafael Perales, she has been focused on expanding her knowledge ever since.

With her father leading the way, Alisa never stopped absorbing information, constantly working to improve her skills.

“I credit my dad for pushing me to do well in school and try my best to work hard,” she said.

“She has been a little different her whole life, but I have always taught her that there’s nothing out there that you’re not capable of understanding,” Rafael added.

Alisa began attending Crafton in spring of 2023. Before becoming a Roadrunner, she considered applying to California State University, San Bernardino, but a counselor encouraged her to explore community college first due to her homeschooling background.

Crafton offered the support she needed to thrive, and she quickly found her place.

Alisa’s father became an honorary Roadrunner, accompanying her early semesters and patiently waiting outside her classes. Eventually, she began attending classes independently and flourishing on her own.

“Before she started at Crafton, I explained that she was going to be around many older kids, and she didn’t seem intimidated by that. She seemed to fit right in,” said Rafael. “So, I just followed my daughter’s lead. I did not make her adhere to a rigorous schedule I had set out for her. I responded to what she was interested in and helped feed that interest and fueled that fire, and her interest in school remained strong.”

At age 8, Alisa took a political science course and used what she learned to file a lawsuit in federal court against both the state and federal governments. Her case challenged the constitutionality of the 26th Amendment and Article II, Section 2 of the California Constitution, arguing that if she had achieved the same education as 18-year-olds, she should also be allowed to vote.

Although the case was unsuccessful, and she was unable to afford an appeal to the 9th Circuit, Alisa hopes another young prodigy will one day pick up the cause.

Alisa has big plans after college. She hopes to work in the artificial intelligence tech industry, either by joining an established company or building a startup with her dad.

No matter what Alisa’s future holds, it promises to be bright.

“Crafton wants everyone to succeed, but you have to work hard to get what you want,” Alisa said. “Do not ever have any doubts over what you want to do in life. Just go out there and give it a shot.”

RIVERSIDE, CA— April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and take action to protect children from abuse and neglect. In recognition of this, the County of Riverside, Family Service Association (FSA), and the HOPE Collaborative united on April 1st to raise awareness about child abuse prevention during a moving flag-raising ceremony held at the Riverside County Administration Center.

Now in its third year, the ceremony honored the lives of children lost to abuse, neglect, and violence. It also aimed to educate the community on recognizing signs of abuse and highlighted the collaborative efforts of various organizations dedicated to protecting children. Among those in attendance were representatives from local nonprofits, including the SAFE Family Justice Center, Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, Boys and Girls Club, NORA,  Childhelp, and many others who provide direct services to children and families in crisis.

More than 100 community members gathered to pay their respects to victims and demonstrate their collective commitment to creating a safer environment for children.  Prominent figures including First District Supervisor Jose Medina, Second District Supervisor Karen Spiegel, and Sheriff Chad Bianco delivered powerful speeches emphasizing the importance of community involvement and child protection. County Executive Officer, Jeff Van Wagenen, emceed the event.

Katie Gilbertson, Regional Manager at the Division of Victim Services at the Riverside County’s District Attorney’s Office, stated “This month isn’t just about awareness. It’s about recognizing the quiet, often invisible suffering of children, and renewing our commitment to protect them.” With over 16 years of experience in child abuse prevention, Gilbertson serves as a Board Member for the HOPE Collaborative and has participated in forensic interviews, medical exams, court proceedings, and victim impact statements. She emphasized, “The work that we do in addressing child abuse is never easy. We are often exposed to some of the most evil acts that our community has to offer. Child abuse is one of the most insidious crimes that we can confront…and it often comes at the hands at the someone that a child deeply loved – a parent, a relative, or friend.”

Bridgette Hernandez, Assistant Director at the Department of Social Services Children’s Services, shared, “Our work is always centered on ensuring that children and families have the resources they need to thrive. Each year, we receive over 62,000 calls of abuse or neglect to our child abuse hotline and conduct roughly 22,000 investigations. However, our work goes beyond investigating allegations of abuse and neglect. Through our partnerships, we also focus on prevention by providing families with resources and supports to create safe environments and reduce life stressors.

Sheriff Chad Bianco added, “We are incredibly proud of our partners – whether they are nonprofit organizations or county agencies. When we encounter children in harm’s way, we know that they are placed in the capable hands of those who will protect and care for them.”

Investing in early childhood programs, expanding family resource services, strengthening behavioral health services, and improving interdepartmental coordination are key priorities in the County’s strategy to support families. Supervisor Jose Medina highlighted these efforts, stating, “When families have access to the right support and know where to go for help, they are better able to care for and protect their children. In District 1, we are seeing this take shape with the opening of the Franklin Residential Care Facility and Behavioral Health Clinic in Riverside and the Wellness Village in Mead Valley – a campus integrating housing, healthcare, and support services.”

As a founding member of the Board’s Committee on Systems Improvement for the Protection of Vulnerable Children and Adults, Supervisor Karen Spiegel emphasized, “I’ve often said it takes a village. We must work together to achieve the best outcomes for our children. Keeping them safe is a collective responsibility that requires the involvement of schools, businesses, law enforcement, government agencies, faith-based organizations, and, most importantly, parents themselves.”

The event highlighted the importance of collaboration in safeguarding children. In Riverside County, Family Service Association (FSA) serves as the designated Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) known as the HOPE Collaborative. The HOPE Collaborative fosters ongoing engagement through monthly meetings across the county, bringing together professionals, parents, and volunteers from diverse backgrounds.

Stephanie Soto, Community Services Director, shared, “FSA strives to prevent child abuse, help families thrive, and build stronger communities. We partner with dozens of organizations to address the root causes of child maltreatment, such as poverty, lack of access to resources, and mental health issues. Through educational programs, awareness campaigns, and community outreach, we empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge and skills they need to raise healthy and happy children.”

The successful flag-raising ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to protect children. The event concluded on an uplifting note with a special performance by second-grade students from Jackson Elementary School in the City of Riverside, who sang It’s Gonna Be a Good Day, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful for the future.

The HOPE Collaborative encourages community members to attend future events and get involved. For more information, contact the HOPE Collaborative by calling 951-369-8036 or by visiting its website at www.hopecollaborative.org.

If you suspect that a child is experiencing abuse or neglect, report it by calling the confidential 24-hour, 7-day-a-week hotline at 1-800-442-4918. Your voice can make the difference for one child.

About the County of Riverside:

The County of Riverside has approximately 40 departments serving more than 2.4 million residents. Services ranging from public safety, health and human services, public works and community services, as well as budget and finance. The county serves approximately 1 million residents a year through its human services departments to ensure residents have critical resources and support.

About Family Service Association:

For over 70 years, Family Service Association has addressed poverty, hunger, and health, from infancy to older adults, in families and under-served communities. Through early education, trauma-informed mental health services, obtainable senior housing, support for home-bound individuals, safe senior/community centers, and nutritious meals for older adults, FSA’s team members serve over 21,000 community members each year. FSA also lead’s the County’s Child Abuse Prevention Council, The HOPE Collaborative.

About HOPE Collaborative:

Facilitated by Family Service Association, The HOPE Collaborative serves as Riverside County’s Child Abuse Prevention Council. With a focus on interagency collaboration, community awareness, education, policy advocacy, and mandatory reporter training, the HOPE collaborative works closely with law enforcement, school districts, non-profits, medical providers, mental health professionals, faith-based groups, community advocates, and the department of public and social services towards the prevention of child abuse and neglect in Riverside County.

SACRAMENTO—A key policy committee today approved a measure in the Assembly Committee on Governmental Organization to make California Native American Day a paid holiday – celebrated annually on the fourth Friday of September – for state employees. Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) introduced the bill, AB 989, which made it out of committee on a 20-0 vote. It will next go to the Committee on Public Employment and Retirement.

Ramos, a member of the Serrano/Cahuilla tribe, is the first California Native American lawmaker elected in the state’s almost 175-year history. He has been laboring to enact a California Native American Day since 1998. The Assembly committee analysis of AB 989, provides the following background:

Native American Day began in California in 1939, when Governor Culbert Olson dedicated October 1st as “Indian Day.” In 1968, Governor Ronald Reagan signed a resolution calling for a holiday called American Indian Day, to be held the Fourth Friday in September. In 1998, the California legislature passed, and the Governor signed AB 1953 (Baca) which changed the name of American Indian Day to Native American Day, and authorized public schools to provide instruction on the contributions of Native Americans. Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr., in 2011 wrote a Governor’s Proclamation highlighting this momentous and important day. Since 2014, with the passage of AB 1973 (R. Hernández), Chapter 537, Statutes of 2014, California has recognized the fourth Friday in September as “Native American Day” as an official state holiday, albeit a holiday that does not directly provide for paid time off for any state employee.

Ramos said, “I was a San Manuel council member when I started working toward this goal with then-Assemblymember Joe Baca Sr. “This is one more step forward in recognizing and building knowledge about the history, culture and contributions of California’s Native Americans.”

In 2021, he successfully authored AB 855 that created a paid judicial holiday. The legislation did not include other state personnel because they are governed by a different statutory code section. Ramos noted, “California Native American history is California history, and the current unpaid holiday designation is an inadequate acknowledgment of the state’s First People and their millennia-long presence, saga and stewardship of the lands now known as California.”

Supporters include Blue Lake Rancheria Tribe of California, California Consortium for Urban Indian Health, Chalon Indian Nation of California, Elk Valley Rancheria, California as well as Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel, Indigenous Justice, Mongo Band of Mission Indians and Native Development Network.

Riverside, CA —Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB) has been named the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce’s Nonprofit of the Year for 2024 for their vital hunger-relief programs and alleviation of food insecurity in the City of Riverside and beyond. FARSB and other awardees were honored at the Chamber’s Inaugural Celebration, an annual recognition dinner held on Thursday, March 20^th, 2025 at the Riverside Convention Center.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized as Nonprofit of the Year by the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce!” FARSB CEO, Carolyn Fajardo said. “This award is a true testament to the dedication and passion of our team, who work tirelessly every day to support our neighbors in Riverside and beyond. I am immensely proud to lead such an extraordinary group of individuals committed to making a difference in our community,” Fajardo continued.

In 2024, FARSB saw a major expansion as it opened the FARSB Hunger Resource Center in the City of Riverside, began construction and food sourcing for the Fresh Start Pantry by Goodman, and expanded its SNAP Resource Center to provide additional community resources beyond food to ensure sustainable growth aligned with community needs.

This year marks the 125^th anniversary of the Chamber’s existence and allows the new Chair of the Board and Board of Directors to be inducted while additional 2024 awards, such as Business of the Year were awarded to Collins Aerospace and Citizen of the Year awarded to John and Janet Gless, were honored during the event alongside FARSB.

FARSB continues its efforts to alleviate hunger in the Riverside area through several hunger-relief programs under five distinct pillars, including Feeding Seniors & Veterans, Feeding the Youth, Feeding through Healthcare, Feeding through Partners, and Feeding without Barriers. These pillars encompass its 12 current programs, including the Military Veteran Program and the newly opened Fresh Start Pantry by Goodman.

For more information about FARSB’s hunger-relief programs, please visit: FeedingIE.org/Programs.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Those who have not had the opportunity to attend a San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra concert will now be able to go for free if they have a library card. The City of San Bernardino Public Library and the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra recently partnered to provide free concert vouchers to all library patrons.

“This collaboration with the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra aligns perfectly with our mission to support the community by providing access to a wide range of cultural experiences,” shared Library Director Ed Erjavek. “This partnership will connect patrons to an incredible San Bernardino institution, fostering a love for music that will resonate for years to come.”

Ticket certificates are available at all San Bernardino Library branches while supplies last. Each certificate is good for one ticket to a 2025 concert and multiple family members may obtain certificates providing each has a library card. There is a limit of one voucher per patron.

“We have designed our 96th season to inspire music lovers of all ages and interests and so we are particularly grateful to the San Bernardino Library system for this partnership designed to introduce orchestral music to even more in our community,” shared Symphony Executive Director Dr. Anne Viricel.

The Symphony will perform five concerts in 2025, most are matinees to accommodate greater family and senior participation. The season recently opened with a concert inclusive of works by Mendelssohn and Bizet. Future performances include the Symphony’s annual holiday concert, the annual concert under the stars with fireworks, a chamber concert, and an American jazz retrospective, as well as two concerts by the Symphony’s new Youth Orchestra in May and December.

Concluded Symphony Board of Directors President Donna Marie Minano, “We believe music should be a shared human experience available to all and so it is with great anticipation that we look forward to welcoming new audiences to our performances.”

By Senator Gomez Reyes

Our veterans have given so much in service to our country, yet many continue to face challenges when reintegrating into civilian life. From navigating healthcare benefits to accessing essential community resources, the journey can often feel overwhelming. That is why events like the Veterans and Community Resource Fair are not just valuable—they are necessary.

On Saturday, April 12, 2025, local, state, and federal organizations will come together in Rancho Cucamonga to provide crucial support for veterans and community members alike. Hosted by Assemblymember Robert Garcia, Congresswoman Norma Torres, and Congressman Pete Aguilar, in partnership with Rancho Cucamonga Veterans of Foreign Wars, Cal Vet, CalWorks, CalFresh, CA DMV, and the Department of Public Health, this event aims to bridge the gap between those in need and the services available to them.

Attendees will have direct access to representatives from agencies that can assist with healthcare, benefits, financial aid, employment services, and more. Whether you are a veteran seeking guidance on VA benefits or a community member in need of public assistance programs, this resource fair will provide a one-stop opportunity to connect with experts who can help.

Beyond the services offered, this event represents something even greater—the power of community. By bringing together veterans, families, and local residents, we foster an environment of support, understanding, and advocacy. No one should have to navigate these challenges alone, and by showing up, we reinforce our commitment to ensuring that those who have served our nation receive the care and assistance they deserve.

If you or someone you know could benefit from these resources, we encourage you to attend. Your well-being matters, and support is available.

For more information, contact (909) 888-5360 or visit SD29.Senate.ca.gov.

Join us at the Veterans and Community Resource Fair on April 12, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 8303 Rochester Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730. Let’s stand together in support of our veterans and community members.

The sold-out event on March 29 featured the Inaugural Hispanic Coalition of Small Business Lifetime Achievement Award, which was given to Pepe Serna, one of the longest working actors in Hollywood.

The 2025 César E. Chávez Memorial Breakfast on March 29 at Cal State San Bernardino celebrated the life and legacy of the late civil rights and labor leader.

The Santos Manuel Student Union South at Cal State San Bernardino was the venue for the  2025 César E. Chávez Memorial Breakfast, when the contributions of the late civil rights and labor leader were celebrated through the theme, is “Telling Our Stories — Our Way, Our Voice: Latino Representation in the Arts, Media, and Education.”

The sold-out event on March 29 featured the Inaugural Hispanic Coalition of Small Business (HCSB) Lifetime Achievement Award, which was given to Pepe Serna, one of the longest working actors in Hollywood.

Serna, recipient of the Inaugural Hispanic Coalition of Small Business (HCSB) Lifetime Achievement Award.

Included in his remarks welcoming guests, CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales pointed out that the nation’s current political climate is “trying to downplay or erase the celebration of our multi-faceted and diverse student body. This particularly impacts our students of color and those from marginalized groups. So it’s important that we gather and we celebrate the incredible work of Cesár Chávez, the incredible work of other leaders. But we must also take up that struggle as well.”

As the political rhetoric, which includes singling out immigrants, escalates, Morales urged the audience to stand firm on their values. “We’re going to double-down here. Some of my colleagues are changing the name of DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) … they’re eliminating ethnic studies and Latino studies. No, we’re going to double-down here,” he said as the audience applauded.

“We’re not going to shy away from that. These are the values that we have here at Cal State San Bernardino.”

President Tomas D. Morales welcomes guests to the 2025 Cesar Chavez Memorial Breakfast.

The day’s honoree, Serna, was also the Padrino de Honor for the LEAD Summit XIII and an activist, artist and motivational speaker, was born on July 23, 1944, in Corpus Christi, Texas. With a career spanning more than five decades, he has appeared in more than 100 films and 300 television shows. He is perhaps best known for his role as Angel Fernandez in the iconic film “Scarface” (1983), where his character met a gruesome end in a memorable scene. His documentary, “Pepe Serna: Life is Art,” and his book of the same title, highlights his contributions to Hollywood and the representation of Latino actors in the industry. This documentary is available on streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime and Apple TV+.

Also recognized were Bel Hernandez Castillo, founder and CEO of Latin Heat Media, and Enrique Castillo, producer, co-director and writer, who were the Padrinos de Honor for the event.

In addition, Richard Montañez, the focus of the movie “Flamin’ Hot” and creator of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos; actor and director Richard Yinguez; and singer and composer Little Willie G. were special guests at the breakfast, which also marked the return of the Jesse Valenzuela Scholarship.

A replay of the livestream can be viewed at “Cesar Chavez Breakfast (XIII Annual)” on YouTube.

The annual breakfast honors, remembers and celebrates César Chávez, the late civil rights and labor movement icon, who is best remembered for his contributions to agriculture labor laws and social justice reform, and for founding the United Farmworkers of America in 1962.

The César E. Chávez Memorial Breakfast serves as a platform for community members, advocates and leaders to come together in solidarity, reflecting on the progress made and the work that lies ahead in the fight for farmworker rights and social justice. The event also inspires attendees to engage in advocacy and take action on broader issues impacting communities today.

Former California Gov. Gray Davis signed legislation in 2002 making Chávez’s birthday a state holiday — this year, the holiday falls on Monday, March 31 — to promote service to the communities of California in honor of the late labor leader’s life and work.