*Rialto Record 07/06/23

R I A L T O R E C O R D

WWe e eekkllyy

Pg 4

By IECN Staff

Be n F K o l b M i d d l e School continues to put t h e R i a l t o U n i f i e d School District on the education map after recently being honored with the National Schools

to Watch recognition during a ceremony in Washington, D C

Kolb Middle School is one of o n l y 1 8 9 m i d d l e s c h o o l s , including just 55 schools that are new to the honor, across the country that earned the National

S c h o o l s Wa t c h d i s t i n c t i o n Schools were honored at a cerem o n y d u r i n g t h e N a t i o n a l Schools to Watch Conference, which was held June 22 to 24 in the nation's capital The award is presented by the National Forum, a nonprofit educators’

a s s o c i a t i o n d e d i c a t e d t o i m p r o v i n g e d u c a t i o n a n d school-based supports for all young adolescents in the middle grades

“ I w a s p r o u d t o b e t h e

By Manny Sandoval

It has been a whirlwind journey from the streets of Rialto to the bright lights of international music for Bobby and IZ Avila, the Grammy-winning duo popularly known as The Avila Brothers

Their recent chart-topper 'Glu,' performed by Usher, added yet another feather to their already impressive catalog when it peaked at #1 on Billboard's Adult R&B Airplay Chart (and by the way, it's still at #1 for the

second consecutive week) Yet, amid their global success, the brothers have always retained sight of their roots, regularly channeling their hometown pride into uplifting the talent of the Inland Empire region

"It's been a 38-year journey of hard work, resilience, and unwavering love for music," IZ Avila said, reflecting on their shared career "Our goal is, and always has been, to bring wins back home to the Inland Empire There's so much homegrown talent h e r e , f r o m S

The brothers' connection with Usher is long-standing, stemming from their time touring band members since 2009 and producing his 2004 chart-topping Confessions album (yes, the one we all know of) Iz Avila reminisced about the genesis of 'Glu,' "Sean [Garret] took the initiative and felt it could be dope for Usher Usher sang the record, loved it, and wanted to drop it as a teaser on Valentine's Day "

Avila, cont on next pg

PHOTOS RUSD

Kolb Middle School earned the prestigious State and National Schools Watch distinction this year The Kolb Middle School team proudly displayed their recognition at the National Schools to Watch awards ceremony in Washington D C in late June Pictured from left top row: Vinh Ho, John Uy, Brandii Brunson, Helen Johnson, Christina Van Hulle, James Nava Bottom row: Monica Garcia, Armando Urteaga, Tina Lingenfelter, and Elizabeth Ontiveros-Hernandez

Loggins to Hit Boy out of Riverside "

PHOTOS THE AVILA BROTHERS

Left photo: Bobby Ross and IZ Avila are Rialto natives, grammy award winners, and currently #1 on the Billboard R&B Airplay Chart with Usher Right photo: IZ Avila, Usher, and Bobby Ross Avila rehearsing for Usher: The Las Vegas Residency in 2021 at Cesars Palace

RUSD

Principal during this tremendous achievement, and I congratulate the students and staff of Kolb for earning this prestigious national honor,” Urteaga said

Urteaga was promoted from the school’s principal to a Lead Personnel Agent position in the RUSD earlier this year

“I am very proud of the progress Kolb Middle School has shown over the past few years We transformed the school culture and focused on academics while working through challenges like the pandemic Kolb staff was determined to put student learning first This hard work proved successful We increased academics and attendance and lowered negative student behavior This transformation and focus on academics has earned Kolb Middle School both State and National Schools To Watch recognition ”

The honor puts Kolb Middle School in an exclusive club According to a press release from the National Forum, each school was “selected by state leaders to serve as a model to mentor other schools because of its demonstrated social equity, developmental responsiveness, academic excellence, and innovative systems ”

Schools to Watch have strong leadership, teachers who work together to improve curriculum

Avila

Their success, however, is more expansive than producing chart-topping hits The duo's recent collaboration with Billy Ray Cyrus and Snoop Dogg, 'Hard Working Man,' is a heartfelt tribute to the frontlines and celebrates veterans, featuring key shots from IE's South Colton and Nashville, Tennessee

Their ambitions go beyond music The Avila Brothers are now turning their attention to fostering new talent "Our focus in this chapter is to start developing younger talent Artist development doesn't exist right now, and we're looking to craft a sound for them," Bobby Ross Avila said

A testament to this mission is their investment in Mikey, an upcoming California native Mexican artist introduced to them by Baby Bash They believe Mikey has the potential to be an inspiration for Latino youth "We feel brown kids can say, 'I wanna be like Mikey,'" Bobby added

Behind all their accomplishments is the unyielding support of their mother, Clara Avila "Our mom is not only our inspiration, and she is the example of how to live life, celebrate holidays, and connect with family," Iz said, attributing their success to her

The brothers are also acutely aware of the music industry's changing landscape "It's important for guys like us to keep our fingers on the pulse and build new strategies, new audiences," Iz said They are also champions for creators' rights in the industry "The game for creators is simple, ownership We are supposed to own what we create "

The Avila Brothers' story is a testament to their tenacity, unyielding love for music, and commitment to their roots

As they continue to climb the ladder of success, they remain humble, attributing their success to hard work and dedication The brothers reflect on their upbringing in Rialto fondly "It was gritty, we didn't live in the best area, but it built our character," Bobby said

With their sights set on cultivating the next generation of artists and bringing more wins back to their home turf, The Avila Brothers are indeed the hometown heroes of the Inland Empire

"My brother and I have performed in front of

and instruction, and a commitment to continuous improvement that is based on supporting the whole child through social, emotional, and academic growth

“It is an incredible honor to have Kolb Middle School be awarded the National and State Schools to Watch Award,” said Lingenfelter Lingenfelter attended Kolb Middle School as a student and joined the school as a principal earlier this year

“I am grateful to be a part of such an amazing team of teachers and individuals here at Kolb As the new principal, my goal is to continue to support and foster the exceptional work the dedicated teachers and staff have demonstrated to our Kolb students and families ”

The Schools to Watch program’s uniqueness is reflected in its requirement that all teachers and administrators at candidate schools complete an extensive rubric that evaluates the school’s systems as part of the application or reapplication process

In March, Kolb Middle School was selected as one of the 78 California middle schools, handpicked by the California Schools to Watch program for 2023 This significant honor was presented during a ceremony in Monterey and highlights the exceptional work of the staff at Kolb Middle School

tough crowds across the country, but growing up in this business and starting with tough crowds in the IE, in hindsight, really makes me appreciate the IE culture because it prepared us for this," Iz added

Still, the brothers continue to find comfort in the familiarity of their hometown Favorite local spots, like Amapola Rico Taco in San Bernardino and Nickelodeon Pizza in Colton (the chorizo and avocado pizza, specifically), serve as nostalgic reminders of their roots

The brothers, both graduates of Eisenhower High School, began their musical journey early on "Before we were even teenagers, our dad had a vision for us Bobby started playing keys at 4, and I started playing drums at 5," Iz recalled

The Avila Brothers credit their success to a host of mentors and influences, one of whom was Jaymes Phelix, a family friend and a part of Andrae Crouch and the Disciples "He was the one who poured into our cup at an early age and allowed me to produce and be who I was," Bobby fondly remembers

Apart from their music, they attribute their cousin Richie (a Colton resident and photographer) with a passion for community service as a guiding light "The heart of Richie is amazing, and he rallies around community service like no other in my family; he keeps his heart open and is rooted deep in Colton; it's inspiring to us," Iz proudly stated

The brothers offer some sage advice to young, aspiring artists from their hometown and beyond "Love what you do Don't focus on prosperity or what may come financially You're going to be a lonesome cowboy, but through loneliness, it will build strength and character," Bobby advises

As they continue to create timeless music and nurture the talent of the future, The Avila Brothers remain beacons of perseverance and success, their journey a testament to their dedication and the rich talent that the Inland Empire has to offer

It is clear that, despite their global accolades, their hearts will always be with their home in the Inland Empire and #1 on the Billboard charts (without the backing of a record label)

Read more at iecn com

Rialto City Council Making Claims and Refuting Allegations Over Contr over sial War ehouse Appr oval Neighboring Frisbie Par k: Re-print

By Manny Sandoval

The City of Rialto has become a battleground over a contentious warehouse project approved by the City Council in a narrow 3-2 vote on April 25th The proposed warehouse, planned for the intersection of Pepper Avenue and the 210 freeway, is an area initially zoned for retail, commercial, and housing

However, the contentious approval has ignited allegations of conflict of interest, health hazards, and misuse of zoning laws The voices from the City Council are echoing across the community with increasing intensity as the drama unfolds

Councilmember Joe Baca is leading the opposition, arguing that the warehouse will create hazardous health conditions in the area, particularly concerning the recently renovated and neighboring Frisbie Park, and increase the city's maintenance cost due to the wear and tear from increased trucking "After city staff investigated all aspects of the industrial project, our planning commission recommended against it and said it's not in the best interest of the City of Rialto," Baca said

Baca further criticizes Mayor Pro Tem Andy Carrizales and Planning Commissioner John Peukert for participating in the vote, citing potential conflicts of interest due to their close residential proximity to the proposed warehouse, claiming that Carrizales has a stake in ownership in the home he currently lives in He also questions the project's economic benefit: "We don't know how many employees, tenants, or if it will even bring jobs "

The situation took a turn when Baca challenged the legality of the vote "Rafael secured money for a certain organization out of Rancho Cucamonga, and Andy voted with a conflict of interest It would have been a 2-2 vote if one had recused themselves," he asserted

Defending his position, Carrizales dismissed Baca's allegations as being politically motivated "Joe Baca is stirring up false allegations just to grow his own personal political influence This is all about Joe Baca's personal advancements after the last 10 years of failed, embarrassing, and disastrous campaign runs," Carrizales retorted He continued, "I sought legal advice regarding the vote on the Pepper Avenue warehouse, and I have no conflict of interest voting on that project My motherin-law owns the property my family and I live in Therefore, I have no conflict of interest or financial interest I believe Baca is upset because the developer didn't give him a donation to the Joe Baca Foundation! The foundation that was paying all of his family mem-

bers until they were exposed; now that's a financial conflict of interest! I've told Baca if he believes that I am breaking the law or have some financial gain from this project to report me to the FPPC "

Mayor Deborah Robertson also voiced her opposition, sharing Baca's concerns about the warehouse's potential environmental and community impact "I am opposed to projects that will affect our community's quality of life,"

Robertson stated She also critiqued developer and applicant Tim Howard's attempt to amend the community's previously adopted plans for the area

In a further complication, Robertson disclosed that Howard had proposed millions of dollars in donations to the Rialto Unified School District (RUSD), The National Latina Business Women's Association Inland Empire Chapter, and the Rialto Police Department (RPD) She suggested this was a strategic move to buy approval for the controversial project, asserting, "This community benefit thing has become a joke "

She ended the call by stating, "I want to be clear, I am not opposed to industrial development, but I am opposed to projects that will affect our community's quality of life in multiple ways "

Despite these claims, Councilmember Rafael Trujillo argued that the donations would significantly benefit the community "I have no financial benefit or conflict of interest My community stands to win, and I stand with working families The National Latina Business Women's Association Inland Empire Chapter is a strong organization of women doing great things in the community Why would any of my colleagues on the Rialto City Council target women of color who have shown through their hard work to be the backbone of the thriving local business community?" Trujillo questioned

He continued by saying that he supports several organizations working across the community "In this case, the Executive Director is from Rialto and has numerous stories of accomplishments that were highlighted during Women's History Month at the Rialto City Council Meeting This organization provides contract procurement and training for women of color, a space where micro business owners can grow, take their businesses out of their home, and establish contracts with public agencies "

While this conflict has taken the city by storm, and the council seemingly wants to do right by the community in their own way, two things are certain: 1 ) Another warehouse is coming, and 2 ) We're stronger when we’re together and on the same page

Community News

Behind-the-scenes work carried out by County leadership in partnership with the community is about to blossom into a series of equity-driven public initiatives designed to ensure minority communities can share in the well-being and prosperity promised to all county residents by the Countywide Vision

“There is enough room for everybody to succeed,” Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr said during a June 22 update provided to more than 100 Black community leaders on the County’s equity efforts

These efforts, inspired by action taken by the Board of Supervisors three years ago declaring racism as a public health crisis, resulted in the creation of a Countywide Vision Equity Element Group made up of 16 Black community organizations and the inclusion of equity as a guiding force within other vision element groups addressing public safety, education, wellness, housing, jobs and the economy, the environment, infrastructure, and water

“We have an opportunity in this space unlike any other,” said County Chief Executive Officer Leonard X Hernandez “I believe in this county the best things can grow We are poised right now as an organization to push forward in a bold way, to push forward in a new way, and to push forward in a sustainable way to do things we’ve never done before ”

County Assistant Executive Officer Diana Alexander, who heads the County’s equity efforts, said groundwork carried out by the Equity Element Group and the County will soon result in:

Workshops to teach minority-run businesses and community organizations how to effectively compete for County contracts.

Building capacity within community organizations with the assistance of skilled young people supported by County funding

Establishment of a County Equity Office led by a County Equity Officer.

Prioritization of investments in minority communities

An Equity Cohort program within the County to ensure County departments think in terms of equity as they provide services to residents and businesses

Contracting with a Black-owned communications firm to ensure minority communities are aware of the Equity Element Group and County’s efforts and has the opportunity to participate in programs and decision-making

“We’ve been doing things behind the scenes and now we’re bringing it out,” Alexander said “Please believe me when I say you will see change ”

The County’s declaration of racism as a public health crisis, the addition of equity as a Countywide Vision element and

the creation of the Equity Element Group came in the wake of the May 25, 2020, murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a Minneapolis police officer, which is why efforts have initially focused on the Black community

Alexander said the lessons learned and successes will be applied to eventually address the equity needs of all minority communities of color, gender, age, and disabilities

DOROTHY GALLEY SCHUCK

WORTHINGTON NEE CASNER

April 23, 1921 - May 2, 2023

Dorothy was born at home in Perris, CA, married John Galley and raised 4 children in the old Van Frank home. The second oldest home in Rialto. Besides the remodel of her home, she taught swimming lessons, piano lessons and PTA president. She arranged for the old church to be donated for the Rialto Historical Society and Museum.

After John passed, she moved to Banning, Ca, married Royal Schuck and visited every foreign country except the Solomon Islands. They also traveled the USA collecting rocks and old chairs.

Royal passed and Dorothy married Woody Worthington, continuing her USA travels. Dorothy wrote a book of her life with her family in Perris (unpublished) and wrote about 100 short stories sending to Reminisce Magazine, Off Road and Rock Hound magazines. Some were published.

After Woody passed, she moved to Placerville, Ca. with son Art and family. Under hospice care she passed at New West Haven assisted living. She is survived by sister Joan, brother Thaddeus, daughters Ruth and Karen, son Art, 10 grandchildren, 31 greats and 10 great greats. Her son Ken had passed in 2005.

Her life will be celebrated at Mountain Ave Baptist Church, Banning, July 8, 10:30am.

PHOTO COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO

City of San Bernardino Councilmember Kimberly Calvin (left) and dozens of community members receiving an update on the regions equity accomplishments and plans

Community News

The San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), in partnership with Brightline West, has been awarded a $25 million federal grant to build stations in Victor Valley and Hesperia for the much-anticipated high-speed rail line between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga

The grant, through the U S Department of Transportation’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, will fund the final design and construction of the two High Desert stations – both critical elements of the Brightline West rail project

When finished, the $12 billion project will create America’s first true high-speed rail system spanning 218 miles The fully electric, emission-free system between Las Vegas and the Rancho Cucamonga Metrolink station will offer a modern, efficient alternative between the High Desert and the East and West Valleys of San Bernardino County The terminus in Rancho Cucamonga is significant due to its central location along Metrolink’s San Bernardino Line, the busiest commuter rail line in Southern California with connections to Los Angeles to the west and Redlands to the east

Brightline West projects more than 11 million trips annually, removing 3 million cars every year from the road In addition, it will eliminate more than 400,000 tons of carbon emissions each year The project will generate more than 35,000 jobs during construction, including 10,000 union jobs and more than 1,000 permanent jobs to operate and maintain the system Brightline West’s overall investment also includes more than $800 million in roadway improvements along the I-15 freeway

“We are thrilled to receive a $25 million RAISE grant for the Victor Valley and Hesperia stations and are grateful for the overwhelming support of Senator Alex Padilla and our local Congressional delegation – Representatives Jay Obernolte and Pete Aguilar – in securing this critical funding

When complete, the Brightline project will be a game changer for our region, reducing commute times, increasing job opportunities and improving the quality of life for residents,” said Art Bishop, President of SBCTA and an Town Councilmember in Apple Valley, where the Victor Valley station will be located

Dr Raymond Wolfe, Executive Director of SBCTA, said the funding award for the Victor Valley and Hesperia stations paves the way for a larger grant sought by

Brightline West for the Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga project, which will improve access and connectivity across Southern California “This will provide a direct link between the High Desert, Rancho Cucamonga, downtown Los Angeles and our own East Valley, reducing the need to rely on personal vehicles for daily commutes, improving air quality and closing the live-work gap for millions of people

Along with other commuter projects either under way or under development, including the Arrow Line and the West Valley Connector bus rapid-transit system, Brightline West represents a cost-effective, 21st century solution to our region’s transportation challenges,” Wolfe said

“This federal funding through the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a major step in expanding rail through the High Desert,” Senator Padilla said “Connecting the future Brightline West corridor with Metrolink will help take cars off the road, reducing traffic congestion and emissions to create healthier air for communities throughout the region ”

“I’m proud to have worked alongside our San Bernardino County Transportation Authority to secure funding through the Department of Transportation to support the final design and construction of Brightline rail stations in Hesperia and Victor Valley This high speed rail project will bring significant new economic activity into our community, boost local job availability, and help to alleviate traffic by linking the High Desert to Los Angeles and Las Vegas I look forward to continuing to advocate for the completion of this project,” said Representative Obernolte (CA-23)

“Investing in our infrastructure not only creates good-paying jobs, it keeps our communities connected and spurs economic growth,” said Representative Aguilar (CA30) “That’s why I’m proud to have helped secure over $117 million for Inland Empire transportation projects last year I will continue working hand-in-glove with our local community partners to secure federal resources that improve the Inland Empire economy and raise the quality of life for our residents ”

“The High Desert stations are an integral component to our 218-mile system and will connect millions of residents with America’s first true high-speed rail system,” said Sarah Watterson, President of Brightline West “We’re moving towards a groundbreaking later this year, kickstarting one of the largest job creators in the country and setting the stage for a new era in transportation We are appreciative of our federal partners, the SBCTA and all those who support our system ”

PHOTO SBCTA

Artist rendering of the Victor Valley Brightline West station in Apple Valley

By Manny Sandoval

Most teenagers only dream of sports fame, but it's become a reality for Caden Henderson, the 18-year-old Redlands High School graduate A former Inland Empire Community News sports writer, Henderson is now an accomplished sports announcer for the Redlands United Football Club (FC)

Henderson's ascent into the sporting events limelight started early At 12, he interviewed Los Angeles Angels' Center Fielder Mike Trout while rehabbing at the Inland Empire 66ers at San Manuel Stadium That interaction sparked something in the young journalist, which eventually lit his path to where he is now

Reflecting on her son's journey, Jill Ann Sheehan Henderson recollects, "At the time, we joked, where does he go from here? Does this mean he can retire now? But it seems the sporting universe had bigger plans for him "

Henderson is making waves with his distinctive play-by-play live broadcasts on YouTube and his energy and enthusiasm that ignites Redlands FC's home games His unique style was evident during the late June game, which drew a record crowd of over 400 enthusiastic fans

"Nothing beats announcing live in my hometown The energy, the atmosphere, it's fun," said Henderson, who is excited about starting his studies at the University of Redlands’ Johnston Center this fall

Ryan Whiley, the owner of Redlands FC, is equally enthusiastic about having Henderson on board "It's our first season, but with Caden leading our play-by-play broadcasts, it feels like we've been doing this for years," said Whiley

The Redlands FC has had an impressive run in the USL League 2, with three wins, two draws, and just one loss With a division of about 120 across the country and a team composed primarily of local talents from Redlands, the future looks promising

Jill couldn't be more proud, commenting, "University of Redlands’ Johnston Center allows students to shape their academic journeys, just as Caden is shaping his career on the field He’s going to major in sports broadcasting and information "

To catch Caden Henderson’s exciting live sports broadcasts and get a schedule of upcoming games, visit Redlands FC’s YouTube channel and the official website respectively

West Valley Water District Selects Season Water Pr ofessional as General Mana ger

Community News

The West Valley Water District (WVWD)

Board of Directors announced that John Thiel has been selected as the agency’s next general manager The board unanimously approved his contract on April 6, 2023 and he will begin his new position on Monday June 19, 2023

Mr Thiel brings with him over 30 years of experience in the water industry, having rose through the ranks at South Tahoe Public Utility District (STPUD) becoming general manager in 2019

During his tenure, Thiel oversaw the completion of over 100 projects and programs, including the advancement of water conservation programs, advocacy efforts resulting in over $20 million in grants for the District and establishing initiatives to advance STPUD’s Recycled Water Strategic Plan

“Mr Thiel’s expansive public service career has made him the ideal candidate to lead West Valley Water District,” said WVWD Board President Greg Young “On behalf of my board colleagues and everyone at West Valley Water District, I extend a warm, heartfelt welcome to John I am confident that his leadership and experience will help propel our District to new heights ”

In addition to his extensive experience in water, Thiel earned his MBA at the University of Nevada

and his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at Iowa State University before gaining experience in the private sector as a project engineer

“I have been incredibly fortunate to have spent over 30 years of my career at South Tahoe Public Utility District During my time there, I have grown as a person and a professional and am grateful for the people I have met and experiences I have had,” said Thiel “I am looking forward to bringing the knowledge I have gained to West Valley Water District and to work side-by-side with its incredible team of water professionals and board members to continue its mission to provide our customers with safe, high quality and reliable water services ”

Prior to serving in capacity as general manager, Thiel spent 26 years as an engineer for STPUD, with over 4 of those as Engineering Department Manager

The West Valley Water District has proudly served the Southern California communities of Bloomington, Colton, Fontana, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Jurupa Valley since 1952 Through name changes and consolidation, the mission has always remained the same: to provide customers with safe, high quality, and reliable water service at a reasonable rate and in a sustainable manner The District provides water for about 98,000 customers and is overseen by a five-member, publicly elected Board of Directors

PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL Redlands High School graduate and esteemed sports announcer, Caden Henderson, showcasing his announcing talents to a live audience and broadcasting via a YouTube livestream on June 21st

Caden Hender son, For mer IECN Spor ts Repor ter Transf or ms Fr om High School Student to Paid Spor ts Announcer - W her e Ar e T hey Now

PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL

Jill Ann Sheehan Henderson and Caden Henderson atop the press box during halftime of the Redlands FC v Southern California Seahorses game, which was attended by over 400 fans

Tr uEvolution’s Pr oject Legacy Mar ks Fir st-of-its-kind Suppor tive Housing f or Inland Empir e LGBTQ+ Youth & Veterans Experiencing Homelessness

By Manny Sandoval

In a significant stride for California's underserved communities, a congregation of esteemed state officials and nearly three hundred local leaders joined hands with TruEvolution on Friday to inaugurate Project Legacy This pioneering endeavor marks the state's first and only Homekey site dedicated to supportive housing for homeless LGBTQ+, HIV+ youth, and veterans

Lourdes Castro Ramirez, California's Secretary of the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, chaired the grand opening event alongside Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman, the Chair of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus Together with Caucus members Senator Caroline Menjivar, Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes, and Assemblymember Corey Jackson, they stood shoulder to shoulder with Riverside County Supervisor Karen Spiegel, Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, and TruEvolution's CEO Gabriel Maldonado

"We embarked on this project amid the pandemic in a state of emergency," said Gabriel Maldonado, CEO of TruEvolution "Our initial approach was to repurpose existing houses But we soon realized that what we needed was a holistic living space A place where wellness, fitness, nutrition, social services, mental health, and healthcare could all be co-located to provide comprehensive support for this community "

Project Legacy, situated in downtown Riverside, stands as a beacon of hope for the state's LGBTQ+ marginalized community, providing a safe haven that moves beyond mere accommodation Its design includes:

Forty-nine beds for transitional housing

An overnight housing manager's quarters.

An on-site primary and specialty health services center

A mental health clinic

A job training center

A fitness center Even a community garden.

"Wrap-around services are crucial for every community," Assembly Majority Leader Eloise Gomez Reyes emphasized "Gabriel Maldonado and his team have left no stone unturned in ensuring our youth have access to every service they need This isn't just a shelter; it's a home "

Impressed by TruEvolution's personcentered approach, Secretary Ramirez praised the project's alignment with Governor Newsom's vision of providing resources and support to local communities, helping them address their unique housing challenges "When the pandemic hit in 2020, we were deeply concerned about its impact on our most vulnerable residents," she recalled "That concern led to the birth of the Home Key model, an innovative solution to create permanent, safe, affordable housing that meets the comprehensive needs of individuals who have experienced long-term homelessness "

In 2021, homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth in California was alarmingly disproportionate, representing 40% of the homeless youth population, despite making up only 5-7% of the overall youth population Moreover, studies have shown that 1 in 3 foster kids identify as LGBTQ+, further exacerbating their risk of homelessness and mental health issues

Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes, who successfully procured $10 million

for the project, echoed this sentiment

"This facility is not just the first of its kind in the Inland Empire but a transformative beacon that will be scaled across the state It's not just about providing beds; it's about offering healthcare, mental health support, and career services in a state-of-the-art facility that will truly transform lives "

As the country commemorates LGBTQ+ Pride Month, the inauguration of Project Legacy is a timely reminder of the necessity for targeted, comprehensive initiatives to support marginalized communities

State Senator Caroline Menjivar, from the 20th district, summed up the importance of this moment, saying, "I drove two hours from Los Angeles to be here for this momentous grand opening LGBTQ+ seniors are among the populations most vulnerable to homelessness

As a lesbian, I'm determined to return this success to my district Our people are at risk of sexual harassment, mental health problems, and homelessness

Project Legacy is the comprehensive solution we need in my district "

Project Legacy not only answers an immediate crisis but also illuminates a path forward It confronts the stark reality of homelessness and health disparities faced by the LGBTQ+, HIV+ youth, and veterans, delivering an innovative model for supportive housing that can be replicated throughout California and, potentially, the nation

CEO Maldonado reflected on the project's early successes, explaining, "We've already moved 17 residents in, and we're seeing that not every individual needs the same amount of support or the same amount of time spent here

Some people may need an extended period of stability to save for a move into

permanent housing Others need less time but more intensive services We're committed to understanding and responding to these diverse needs to prevent our residents from slipping back into disparity and homelessness "

The impact of Project Legacy's groundbreaking model will be closely monitored, as it may provide crucial insights into more effective strategies for tackling homelessness It provides hope for vulnerable Californians who have been hit the hardest

"The unique aspect of Project Legacy is the community it creates," Maldonado added "This isn't just about providing a roof over their heads It's about fostering a sense of belonging, a sense of home The community lives here, and this is a home for everyone who needs it "

As California marks the end of Pride Month, Project Legacy is a shining symbol of a new approach to addressing homelessness and health disparities among some of its most vulnerable residents It offers a testament to what can be achieved when state, local leaders, and community organizations unite to effect positive change It is more than a housing project; it is a legacy of commitment to community, inclusivity, and the belief that everyone deserves a safe place to call home

As Project Legacy begins its journey, it already provides a transformative blueprint for other states to follow, proving that when we prioritize compassion and comprehensive support, lives can be changed for the better This initiative underscores a simple, powerful message: Everyone deserves a home and a community

To learn more, visit truevolution org

PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL

The Project Legacy Campus is located at 3879 Brockton Ave

PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL California Housing Agency Deputy Secretary of Equity and Strategic Initiatives Erica Gonzalez and Secretary of California Business Consumer Services and Housing Agency Secretary Lourdes Castro Ramirez in the quad area of the state-of-the-art housing facility

PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL

State Senator Caroline Menjivar, TruEvolution CEO Gabriel Maldonado, Assembly Majority Leader Eloise Gomez Reyes, and Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes moments before history was made at the Project Legacy Grand Opening Ceremony on June 30th, 2023