Progress December 2015

December 2015 Vol. 36 Issue 12 modchamber.org

GRADUATION COACH, SANDRA CHAVARRIA

Come Back Kids

VCDI

Government Relations

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CONTENTS DECEMBER 2015

Mission Statement

LEADERSHIP

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Message from the CEO

COVER STORY

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area, regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity and business education.

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GOVERMENT RELATIONS

Executive Committee

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Health of California economy dependant on college graduates

Non Profit Mentoring

Programs Help Kids Succed

Chairman David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

Chairman-Elect Eric Tobias, F&M Bank

NETWORKING & REFERRALS

Past Chairman Ralph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group Vice Chairman, External Operations Stephen Madison, STANCO Vice Chairman, Internal Operations Patricia Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum,CPA Vice Chair, Marketing & Events Laura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions

Distribution: The Parks Group 209.576.2568 Advertising Sales: Never Boring 209.526.9136 • progress@neverboring.com © Copyright 2015 Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Some parts of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted, however, we require that permission be obtained in writing.

209.577.5757, Progress@ModChamber.org

PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 209. 577.5757 • Fax 209. 577.2673 www.ModChamber.org Progress@ModChamber.org

EDUCATION

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"Come Back Kids" Provides a Second Chance

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VCDI: Enhanced Life Opportunities through Enhanced Employment Opportunities

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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Community Service Day

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber Corner

Cecil Russell, President/CEO Modesto Chamber of Commerce CRussell@ModChamber.org

Printer: The Parks Group 209.576.2568 • mike@theparksgroup.com

GUEST COLUMN

Advisors Keith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior College David Boring, Never Boring Kristopher Helton, Leadership Modesto Jim Holgersson, City of Modesto David White, The Alliance Melissa Williams, Modesto Irrigation District

Graphic Design: Never Boring 209.526.9136 • www.neverboring.com

Chamber Calendar

Directors Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments Jeffery Burda, Wells Fargo Mid-Valley Commercial Banking Mike Garcia, Oak Valley Community Bank David Gingerich, TD Gingerich Insurance Solutions, Inc. Brad Hawn, CHG Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center Craig Lewis, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Virginia Madueño, Imagen Public Relations Nate Miller, Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc. Tom Nielsen, Beard Land and Investment Co. Peggy O’Donnell, Mid-Valley Promotion Steven Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc. Kole Siefken, DoubleTree Hotel Lucy Virgen, Bank of the West Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce 209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org

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MIKE HUMBLE I.J LARSEN PUMP, INC

Hello, my name is Mike Humble, I am with I.J. Larsen Pump INC. Through the years, our company has partnered with Bank of the West and the Salvation Army in an annual toy drive. In doing this we have been sharing the gift of giving together and have made an impact on many lives, including my own. There are certain moments that can occur in people’s lives that can change your outlook to embrace what you have rather than what you don’t have.

This is that moment: Earlier this year, I was involved in a very serious car accident that should have claimed the lives of my two youngest sons and I. Our lives were spared with the grace of God when we survived this near tragedy. At any moment, what we have can all be taken away and we can’t take our material possessions with us. So this Christmas I will continue to give, because I still can. I am blessed knowing I am able to wake up to my beautiful family and see the joy of life on their faces. I know it’s the joy and impact that we have on people’s lives that will never be forgotten. It’s not what house we had, what vehicle we drove, or what we had in our bank accounts. This is not what matters, what matters is what we deposit into someone else’s life.

So let’s team up and pass the blessing onto others who are in need this year.

Let’s plant the seed in the community’s hearts, and then watch it grow by making Christmas a reality for kids and families who only dream about receiving a gift this holiday season. P DECEMBER 2015

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PUBLI C A DVO CACY

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

By Chamber President and CEO Cecil Russell

We had an interesting election with three city council seats decided.

Congratulations to Mani Grewal, Doug Ridenour, and Kristi Ah You on their victories. There will be a run off for the Mayor’s position between Garrard Marsh and Ted Brandvold. This will occur in February and it will be an all-mail ballot.

The three new council members have all promoted themselves as business friendly CECIL RUSSELL CHAMBER PRESIDENT and have stated that their goals will be AND CEO to help promote economic prosperity.

We are looking forward to working with the current and new council members to help create a better economy for all. We have a great opportunity to accomplish these goals with our City Manager Jim Holgersson and the team he has put together. Galen Carroll our Chief of Police; Sean Slamon, our Fire Chief; Cynthia Birdsill, our new Community & Economic Development Director are the nucleus of his team and are all committed to making Modesto the City that we can all be proud to work and live with our families.

We are very pleased that Measure I was defeated. Thanks to a great coalition that included former Mayor Jim Ridenour, Supervisor Dick Monteith, both Police and Fire Fighters associations, labor unions, Latino Community Roundtable Hispanic community, and business leaders we were able to defeat this misguided and totally unnecessary measure.

There are a number of protections and requirements in place that will protect against so-called “sprawl”. They include: Sewer extension vote, environmental review, public hearings, landowner votes, and requirements of the Local Agency Formation Commission that require Ag Mitigation. We are looking forward to working with the city leaders and others to start a new dialogue on a smart approach to creating jobs and a more diverse economy to create a better quality of life for all of our citizens.

We had a successful Central Valley Business Summit in late October. Thanks to all of our sponsors especially Doctors Medical Center, American Chevrolet, Huff Construction, Kaiser Permanente, Solid Networks, The ACE Train, and The Modesto Bee Media Services. We had a great committee that put together a super line up starting with a panel discussion

PUBLIC AD VOCACY

with Oscar Cabello, Lynn Dickerson, Mike Gorrasi, and Bryan Reese. Then we had five great breakout sessions along with a very well attended business exhibit hall and lastly a luncheon with our keynote speaker JT Snow, former San Francisco Giants baseball player. Thanks again to our committee and attendees for a great event.

Please save the date and mark your calendar for our 102nd Annual Gala and Member Choice Awards Saturday January 23rd at the Gallo Center for the Arts. We will have great food served by the best restaurants of Modesto, plenty of beverages and entertainment.

We will be focused in the coming year on major transportation projects with the goal to develop more economic opportunity for our community. We will be working with both city, county, and Caltrans to improve access and beautify our entrances to Modesto. We will continue to work with the downtown groups to help create a more vibrant experience in the core of our city.

Have a great holiday season, I wish you all a successful and prosperous 2016! P

DECEMBER 2015

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{COVER STORY }

By Jacqui D. Sinarle

NON PROFIT

HELP LOCAL KIDS

By Jacqui D. Sinarle There’s a lot to love about local nonprofit organizations.

Not only do they provide a wide variety of indispensable services to our community, they also provide unique mentoring opportunities designed to help local kids succeed.

“Mentoring programs might be one of the most valuable ways for communities to readily support themselves,” said Craig Orona, director of mentoring and community support for Sierra Vista Child and Family Services, a private nonprofit agency that has been helping Central Valley children and families in crisis since 1972.

“By simply making connections, youth can find outlets for personal growth and schoolwork support, parents can find a supporter to assist in their child’s development, teachers can have their work reinforced, and mentors

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

can grow from engaging with their mentees,” Orona explained. “It takes little time on all ends and everyone benefits.”

Sierra Vista’s Regional Mentoring Alliance (RMA) strives to make a difference in the lives of children in our community by facilitating and providing quality mentoring services and offering mentoring training, technical assistance, support services, and a school-based mentoring program.

“Studies show that mentoring is one of the most powerful forces in education,” Orona reported. “A young person who meets regularly with a mentor is 52 percent less likely to drop out of school and 46 percent less likely to use drugs.”

Mentoring can also reduce teen pregnancy by 35 percent and violent behavior by 52 percent.

graduation, remove any barriers to their success and connect them to any community resources they may need to succeed.”

Since October, Sierra Vista has managed Modesto City Schools’ mentoring activities, which include mentor screening, support, and training services.

Since its inception in 2013, the Graduation Coach program has grown from three school sites with three coaches serving 120 students to seven school sites with eight coaches serving 280 students.

“This new partnership includes a mentoring program at Burbank Elementary School that is designed to improve the achievement of struggling students by promoting success in multiple realms,” Orona said.

Students are matched with trained, compatible adult mentors who provide a quality mentoring program that follows best practices, and mentors meet with the students for an hour a week throughout the school year.

“Sierra Vista provides trained staff to offer direct support as well as provide engaging activities and a safe place for mentors and mentees to meet,” Orona added. “The goal is to build positive relationships that focus on supporting the social and academic development of the students and enhance the students’ overall school experiences.”

High school graduation is the goal of the Graduation Coach Program operated by the United Way of Stanislaus County in partnership with the Center for Human Services, and it’s been a great success.

“At the launch of the Graduation Coach program, 50 percent of the participating students had below a C average,” reported Sarah Jamieson, vice president of fund development for United Way of Stanislaus County, which has been a leader in local philanthropy for more than 60 years. “By the end of the second year, 11.5 percent of those students had raised their grade point averages above a 2.0 — an approximate 10 percent improvement in performance over other at-risk students not enrolled in the program.”

One school site saw 6.1 percent of Graduation Coach students increase their grade point averages above a C average. During the same period, the percentage of at-risk students not involved in the program who fell below a C average almost doubled, rising from 16.2 percent to 30 percent.

“The Graduation Coach Program is a strategic approach to academic mentoring,” Jamieson explained. “Each coach works closely with approximately 35 students and their parents to build a clear path to

"

“This rapid expansion and the growing interest we have received from additional school sites is an indication of the need for these services for students,” Jamieson said. “The Graduation Coach program is directly impacting the lives of the young people who are the future of our community, and we need the financial support of our community to continue the program.”

“The greatest accomplishment of our Graduation Coach Program is the change in students’ mindsets as the coaches provide them with the tools for academic success and create a road map showing the students how to be successful,” Jamieson continued. “Those students working with a graduation coach now have the knowledge that they matter. The coaches have provided these students with the hope and belief in their abilities to be successful in school.”

In addition to the Graduation Coach Program, the Center for Human Services operates several youth development and leadership programs, noted Kate Trompetter, development and communications director.

“Our mission is to change lives and build futures through programs that strengthen and support youth and families,” Trompetter said. “While these are not formal mentorship programs, our staff and volunteers are working with youth throughout Stanislaus County to develop their skills so they can feel more confident and self-assured, and become contributing, successful members of our community.”

For information: Regional Mentoring Alliance and how to support it, visit www.sierravistacares.org.

Graduation Coach Program and how to support it, visit www.uwaystan.org and www.centerforhumanservices.org.

IS TO CHANGE LIVES AND BUILD

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E C ONOMI C DEVELO PMENT

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Stanislaus Community Foundation, a charitable organization

dedicated to enriching the quality of life in Stanislaus County, announces two new staff members.

JESSICA IRISH

Jessica Irish is the Foundation’s philanthropic services and marketing officer. In this role, she develops and maintains relationships with individuals, families, corporations and nonprofit agencies with charitable goals to ensure their contributions are as impactful as possible and aligned with their vision. Jessica also builds relationships with community members and organizations to inform them about the Foundation and its mission.

Before joining the Foundation staff, she worked at CSU Stanislaus as the marketing and communications director for Extended Education.

Earlier in her career, Jessica was an Emmy-award winning TV news reporter and anchor. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism. Jessica serves as a board member for the Education Foundation of Stanislaus County, Turlock Young Professionals, Advancing Children of Turlock (ACT) and the Turlock Certified Farmers Market.

Moonisah Ali is the Foundation’s program coordinator/administrative assistant. In this role, she provides support to the program director and the philanthropic services and marketing officer. Moonisah is a Central Valley native and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from CSU Stanislaus.

At the university, Moonisah was involved with Associated Students Inc. (ASI) as a program coordinator where she helped develop members through leadership workshops and planned campus events, which kept her fully invested in the campus community.

MOONISAH ALI

“We are excited to have both Jessica and Moonisah join Stanislaus Community Foundation,” said Marian Kaanon, Foundation CEO and President. “These team members represent a commitment to our fund advisors, as well as the community at large. With Jessica and Moonisah on board, we will be able to provide a superior level of service to those who entrust us with their charitable funds while also meeting the growing needs of our region.”

Stanislaus Community Foundation oversees more than 100 charitable funds and manages more than $18 million in assets, providing customized philanthropic solutions with flexibility for donors, nonprofit organizations and the community. Since its inception in 2002, Stanislaus Community Foundation has distributed more than $10 million in grants and scholarships to the local community.

For more information, call 209.576.1608 or visit www.StanislausCF.org.

Farmers Insurance/Agency of Johnny Garcia. Lourdes Rivera, "Lulu", began her role as our customer service rep in September. She has been a great asset to our office/family. Her focus is on Customer Relations and Retention.

LOURDES RIVERA

800-44-Mocse www.Mocse.org

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Lulu is a wife and mother of two wonderful young boys. Come on in and say hi to her. She is a very welcoming individual. P

DECEMBER 2015

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G OV ERNMENT RELATIO NS

HEALTH OF CALIFORNIA’S ECONOMY DEPENDENT ON COLLEGE GRADUATES

By Assemblymember Kristin Olsen California is the eighth largest economy in the world, and continues to be a hub of innovation and economic opportunity, but we must be able to provide excellence in education that will inspire creativity and entrepreneurship, and produce a qualified and talented workforce.

Ultimately, in order for the state to maintain its status as a world-wide leader, our colleges and universities must produce more college graduates.

Despite record numbers of graduates throughout KRISTIN OLSEN California, the Public Policy Institute of ASSEMBLYMEMBER California (PPIC) reports that our college and university system will be short 1.1 million graduates by 2030. Highly educated workers with degrees in engineering, business, and healthcare are in high demand, and it is in the best interest of our children and our economy to ensure that Californians develop the skills necessary to compete in the global marketplace.

The good news is that policies are being implemented right now to combat this issue head-on. I worked closely with our university systems and my legislative colleagues this year to help secure increased funding in the 2015 State Budget, which has allowed University of California and California State University campuses to enroll thousands of additional in-state students this academic year.

Legislation that I joint-authored with Assemblymember Chris Holden that will expand concurrent enrollment opportunities for high school students was signed by the Governor last month. This policy will allow thousands of high school students across the state to attend community college in order to get a head start in their college educations and careers.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

By making community college campuses more accessible to high school students, we can help ignite their sense of purpose and drive that is essential in today’s fast-paced world, while improving their eligibility for a wider range of jobs early on.

Last year, AB 1764 broke ground by being the first bill of its kind to advance computer science offerings in high school. Now that this bill has become law, school districts that require more than two mathematics courses for high school graduation are now able to award math credit for an approved computer science course.

Our state is a world-wide leader in this arena, and we need to stay competitive by making our workforce competitive as well. Lawmakers and education stakeholders have made education a top priority in recent years, and while we wait to see the full impact of these promising policies, there is still plenty of work to be done. I look forward to the 2016 legislative cycle and to continuing to prioritize higher education in policy discussions, so that we can help ensure a stronger and brighter future for generations to come.

If you would like to share your ideas on how we can improve California’s higher education system, please contact me at assemblymember.olsen@assembly.ca.gov. P Assembly Republican Leader Kristin Olsen, R-Modesto, is recognized as a solutionfocused reformer. She represents the 12th Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes portions of Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties.

Follow her on Twitter: @KristinOlsenCA

CHAMBER CALENDAR DECEMBER 2015

JANUARY 2016

2 & 16

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

6 & 20

2

Vocational Coaching & Development Institute, Inc. 1217 J St. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS

12

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING*

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

CHAMBER U - LABOR LAW UPDATES PRESENTED BY: CALIFORNIA EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

CHAMBER U - THE MODESTO BEE

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

8

MARKETING WITH THE CHAMBER

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

1114 J ST.

3 PM TO 4 PM

12

BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

16

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING*

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

ANNUAL GALA - MEMBER CHOICE AWARDS 2016 10

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Dale Commons 3900 Dale Rd. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

1000 I ST.

MODESTO CA 95354

6 PM TO 9:30 PM

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING*

*MEMBERS ONLY MEETINGS HELD AT THE CHAMBER 1114 J STREET **PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.MODCHAMBER.ORG

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AMBASSADOR/WELCOME TEAM MEETING

Modesto Chamber of Commerce 1114 J St. 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Modesto Commerce Bank 1302 J St. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

DECEMBER 2015

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N E TW ORK I NG & REFERRALS

Dale Commons invites you to join us for our

Annual Christmas Open House

Thursday, December 10th, 2015 5:00pm to 7:00pm Themed Decorations: The Grinch, Charlie Brown and more!

Independent and Assisted Living Community 3900 Dale Road Modesto, CA 95356

209.526.2053

www.dalecommons.com

RCFE #507004998

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS BALANCE STAFFING COMPANY

FONTES PRO SOUND

Ms. Cara Chandler

Mr. George Fontes

4260 Sisk Rd.

1442 College Ave.

Modesto, Ca 95355

Modesto, Ca 95350

cara@balancestaffing.com

209.380.9696

www.balancestaffing.com

gmfontes@fontesprosound.com

CAMP TAYLOR, INC. Ms. Kimberlie Gamino

FOWLER’S MACHINE WORKS INC.

5424 Pirrone Rd.

Mr. Andrew Fowler

Salida, Ca 95368

300 S. Riverside Dr.

209.545.4715

Modesto, Ca 95354

209.543.1861

209.522.5146

kimberlie@kidsheartcamp.org

209.522.8582

KidsHeartCamp.org

sales@modestofab.com www.modestofab.com

CARE ONE HOME HEALTH AND HOSPICE, INC.

MODESTO MODERN DENTISTRY

Mr. Balbir Dhillon

Ashley Stephens

2813 Coffee Rd. Bldg C-2

2103 McHenry Ave., Ste C

Modesto, Ca 95355

Modesto, Ca 95350

209.632.8888

StephensA@pacden.com

info@careonehomehealth.net

ModestoModernDentistry.com

www.careonehomehealth.net

MODESTO ON ICE

Radiators • Aluminum • Scrap Appliances Tin • Stainless Steel • Scrap Iron • Copper Brass • Cardboard • E-Waste • Batteries

DRAGON SIM-DEF

Ms. Andrea Murray

Ms. Anita Martin

1125 11th St.

3500 Sisk Rd., Ste. F-2

Modesto, Ca 95354

Modesto, Ca 95356

209.846.4334

209.620.6823

modestoonice@gmail.com

209.857.8795

www.modestoonice.com

nfo@dragonsimdef.com www.dragonsimdef.com

RICO, PFITZER, PIRES INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

GRENELL & CO.

Mr. Michael Colombo

MODESTO JUNK CO. Recycling Center

Mr. Ivan Greene

207 5th St.

4836 Stratos Way, Unit I

Gustine, Ca 95322

Modesto, Ca 95356

209.996.2488

209. 529.8850

mcolombo@rppins.com

1425 9th Street

209.529.1941

www.rppins.com

Downtown Modesto

209-522-1435 Se Habla Español www.modestojunk.com

grenell@jps.net

FOCUZ INTERNATIONAL, INC, Mr. Thomas Jacob 2600 Prosperity Way Modesto, Ca 95355 209.566.2370 209.554.7996 thomas@focuzintl.com

To become a member of the Chamber visit us at www.modchamber.org or call our Membership Director, John Villines, at 209.577.5757

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-4:30pm • Sat. 9am-3pm Free bins and hauling for commercial and industrial customers.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Professional IT services, from a local company you can trust.

MYDATAPATH.COM

CLOUD • DATA PROTECTION • MANAGED SERVICE • VOICE • WIRELESS Complete Technology Management

DECEMBER 2015

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N E T WORK I NG & REFERRALS

RIBBON CUTTINGS

BELLA TOUR LIMOUSINE SERVICE 4730 Enterprise Way, Ste. D Modesto, CA 95356 913.806.2187 bellatourslimo.com

COMCAST COMPLETION OF PRO-BUILD 1639 Princeton Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 business.comcast.com

DANIEL’S

3401 Dale Rd. Modesto, CA 95356 209.289.2001 danielsjewelers.com

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

N ETW ORKIN G & REFERRALS

Please Join Us for Business After Hours December 10 at 5:30 p.m.

{ DECEMBER } BU S INE SS

AFTER H OURS

Business After hosted by: DALE COMMONS

Dale Commons Independent and A Warm, Welcoming Place to Call Home for Seniors: Dale Commons Independent and Assisted Living of Modesto. If you are someone who has worked hard all your life, and now feels that it's time to reap the rewards, a warm and welcoming place to call home awaits you. Formed in 2002, Dale Commons is a unique Independent and Assisted Living Community that focus on cultivating a sense of belonging by promoting privacy, dignity and a sense of empowerment to the lucky residents who live there. It's a feeling that everyone notices the moment they are invited to "come on and make yourself at home" and continues through every thoughtful and personal detail. P

DECEMBER 2015

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E C O N OMI C DEVELO PMENT

SHOW CASE Your BUSINESS

Have a new location or renovation to show off ? Host a “Showcase Your Business” and let the community see your new digs!

For more information call Lynda Jost at 209.577.5757 ext. 111.

City of Modesto Utility Users Tax The City of Modesto’s Utility Users Tax is collected on water, gas and electric services at a rate of 6%, cable television services at 3%, and telecommunication services at 5.8%. The maximum tax utility users have to pay for each service is $1500.

The Modesto Municipal Code currently provides for refunds of overpayments made within 12 months from the receipt of the refund request. To request a refund, please provide the city with a written request and copies of your utility bills which verify you overpaid.

Requests for refunds should be mailed to: City of Modesto Finance Department Attn: Utility Tax Desk PO Box 642; Modesto CA 95353 You may elect to prepay the utility users tax maximum if you believe you will exceed the cap. If you have any questions, please contact the Utility Tax personnel at (209)577-5206.

Your Benefits Plan...Your Way.

V O CATI O NAL CO ACH I NG & D E V E LO PM E NT I NSTI TUTE , IN C. PLE A SE JO I N U S FO R SH O WCASE YO U R BU SI NE SS D E C. 02 With over 200 years of combined experience represented by our management, staff, consultants, and Board of Directors, Vocational Coaching and Development Institute, Inc. (VCDI) strives to be the leader in education, preparation, guidance, and assistance. We work with our clients to prepare them for the competitive workforce. VCDI accomplishes this by resume building, mock interviews, role playing various work situations and up-line communication. We provide the support and environment for them to be successful individuals in their community. Their success is our mission. P

Introducing the

Grow Modesto Fund Small business loans From $5,000 to $300,000 Inquiries: (209) 567-4910 In partnership with:

• Gap & Bridge Financing • Working Capital • Machinery and Equipment • Tenant Improvements • Business Acquisitions • Franchises

Apply online! www.growmodestofund.com 16

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

GIVING Make someone’s holiday….Think Giving.

DECEMBER 2015

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EDUCATIO N

"COME BACK KIDS" PROVIDES A SECOND CHANCE FOR A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA

By Scott Kuykendall, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Options, Stanislaus County Office of Education

SCOTT KUYKENDALL

The San Joaquin Valley has a dropout problem.

It is true that local statistics mirror statewide averages, but in Stanislaus County alone over 900 students drop out of high school each year.

There are a variety of reasons why students drop out, including teenage pregnancies, volatile home environments, and boredom. Regardless of the reasons, the consequences are always the same: Higher rates of unemployment; higher rates of poverty higher rates of crime and incarceration and higher rates of single parents.

In an effort to tackle the dropout rate head on, Come Back Kids launched two years ago in connection with SCOE’s Destination Graduation initiative. The goal of the multi-year initiative is to increase the percentage of students in Stanislaus County who graduate with a high school diploma. Initially, it was hoped that 25 students would be interested in coming back and earning a diploma. After only three months, 150 students were enrolled. To date, this program has produced over 350 graduates. Currently, there are more than 450 students enrolled in Come Back Kids and that number increases daily.

As a mother of two, 22-year-old Maria Arriaga had some reservations about enrolling. She already had a busy schedule and transportation was a problem.

After meeting with her teacher, she was confident she could make it work.

“My teacher is amazing. I can work at my own pace and he gives me the opportunity to come in once a week,” she said. “I can also email him if I have any questions.” Maria wants to expand her educational horizons and knows a high school diploma looks better than a GED on a resume. “My goals are to attend college and get a better job,” she said. “I want to show my kids that they can do it and to never give up.”

Come Back Kids serves two purposes - to give students a second chance at earning a high school diploma and to assist them in pursuing their education and/or career. Students are enrolled in online coursework and meet with their instructors weekly to go over completed assignments and tests. A variety of course-specific workshops are offered on a regular basis to help students. More after hours opportunities are now available that include tutoring and childcare.

Juan Mendoza (21) enrolled in the program this summer. “I decided to come back and get my diploma because I want a better future for myself and I want to provide for my family, get a good job, and maybe in the future a college education,” he said.

Qualifying students wishing to find employment can take advantage of job internships and placements as well as apprenticeship programs. Weekly career readiness seminars are offered that build career skills. Students learn about interview tips, resume writing, filling out applications, and creating a portfolio. Local business partners participate in these weekly presentations and provide insight about what they look for in the workplace.

Come Back Kids has experienced a large amount of success in a very short amount of time. The program continues to grow rapidly and new locations are being added. Students are currently served in Modesto, Turlock, Patterson, Oakdale, and Ceres. Enrollment is ongoing and new students can start at any time. A copy of the student’s high school transcript is needed and will be reviewed to create an individual graduation plan. Students will pick up where they left off and will complete only those requirements needed to graduate. If you are interested in learning more about the program, call the Stanislaus County Office of Education at 238.8650 P .

“MY GOALS ARE TO ATTEND COLLEGE AND GET A BETTER JOB… I WANT TO SHOW MY KIDS THAT THEY CAN DO IT AND TO NEVER GIVE UP.”

TEACHER DANIEL ORTIZ WORKS WITH STUDENT MARIA ARRIAGA

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Stanislaus County Sheriff

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For information on recruitment please call: (209) 567-4412 or beadeputy.com

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DECEMBER 2015

19

GUEST COLUMN VCDI: ENHANCED LIFE OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH ENHANCED EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

By Jared Green, CEO Vocational Coaching and Development Institute, Inc. opened quietly in downtown Modesto, CA in 2013, and immediately began distinguishing itself as a dramatically different day programming option for adults living with developmental disabilities.

Funded through the California Department of Developmental Services, by Valley Mountain Regional Center, Vocational Coaching and JARED GREEN CEO Development Institute, Inc. (VCDI) is set apart by a philosophy of “Enhanced Life Opportunities Through Enhanced Employment Opportunities.” This is manifested in the service delivery provided at VCDI. Clients enrolled at VCDI focus on attaining jobs in the community. However, where other programs seek out contracts with employers, then simply look to place clients into those locations, VCDI focuses on the development of vocational soft skills. Then, after completing multiple trainings lasting from a couple months to a couple years based on the respective client, individuals are assisted in seeking out and completing the application and hiring process with prospective employers. This means that these individuals are learning to obtain and maintain employment in the same manner and following the same procedures as people not living with developmental disabilities. It means that these individuals, even in the unlikely event all supports vanish, have been given the skills necessary to have a fighting chance at finding work.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Training at VCDI begin with foundational skills. Training in concepts such as grooming and hygiene, introducing oneself, dressing for success, punctuality and the importance of attendance, etc., are commonly seen occurring at the VCDI Facility on J Street. Clients then typically progress to working on resumes, cover letters, and utilizing VCDI furnished electronic means like tablets and computers to access company websites and submit applications. Vocational Support Mentors then assist clients in following up with prospective employers and completing training to prepare them further in the process of employment, such as: Mock interviews, role-playing scenarios related to policies and procedures, etc.

Once on the job, Vocational Support Mentors assist the client at the work site for a short duration, fading the support as the client becomes increasingly more independent at work.

You will undoubtedly see VCDI Clients in the community dressed in business attire, introducing themselves to local businesses, and trying to educate local businesses and individuals regarding their efforts. Take the time to talk to them... you will be happy you did.

For more information on hiring a client from Vocational Coaching and Development Institute, Inc., please contact Mr. Zachary Wyse, VCDI Director of Vocational and Relationship Development at zwyse@vcdi.org or 209.342.6707. Also, check out www.vcdi.org or VCDI’s Facebook Page (Search Vocational Coaching and Development Institute, Inc.) to see what a day at VCDI is like! P

Prime Shine Car Wash presents:

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY ...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement

Name: Debbie Johnson Business: Without Permission What is the history of Without Permission?

In 2010, after three years of research and prayer, I shared the vision of WP to a group of women at my church. The response was encouraging. In 2011, I met with city leadership and launched the work locally in Stanislaus County. Then in 2012, I created the 501(c)(3) and WP has been training first responders, restoring victims, and bringing prevention awareness to students and adults throughout the Central Valley.

How does the company differ from when it started?

The first day of WP, I sat a volunteer in front of a phone in an empty office and said, “If the phone rings, answer, ‘Without Permission, how can I help you?’” That was her only job. Today when the phone rings, our receptionist can direct calls to law enforcement, school principals, donors, student volunteers, and sex trafficking survivors to a volunteer staff for help. We have seven equipped work stations staffed with engaged, compassionate, determined city servants ready to end the culture of human trafficking in the Central Valley.

How many employees do you have? Are there any other family members involved, and if yes, what are their roles?

We have three employees, one resident intern, and 25 part-time volunteers that serve every week. My husband Chris works behind the scenes with tech and graphic support.

What have you done in your professional career that has led you to where you are now?

I came to the Modesto area in 1990 as a “Branch Store Coordinator” for Wohl Shoe Company. I managed eight locations from Modesto to Eureka and Yuba City to Antioch. I completed Bible College in 2005 and have been in licensed ministry full time ever since.

Are you originally from this area? If not, where are you from and how did you come to the area?

My home is Santa Maria. We moved to Modesto in June of 1990.

What are some accomplishments that you are particularly proud of?

My marriage of 25 years to Chris. Our 3 children are my greatest work.

What is the single biggest reason you have achieved the level of success that you have?

Beyond any doubt, it is my relationship with Jesus. “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me,” 1 Corinthians 15:10.

What do you like about your job?

The people. I have the privilege of working with community leaders, civil servants, the church, and elected officials. These people care about others and are motivated to pour themselves out to make someone else successful.

Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs?

I have served in Nineveh Outreach working with the homeless and childrens outreach. I have joined Advancing Vibrant Communities in wiping out graffiti. WP has served at Love Modesto providing posters on human trafficking to businesses and thanking Stanislaus County leaders for joining the anti-trafficking work.

What are your plans for the future?

At WP we are planning the launch of our second site January 2016 in Elk Grove. We will continue to build a model that can be replicated throughout Northern California and statewide. We also want to be the driving force in the faith community to engage and restore the broken lives of sex trafficking.

What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals?

I have heard something very disturbing from foreign nationalists: Those from Sweden, Australia, and Canada have said to me, “We work to live, you Americans live to work.” “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.

But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” Matt 6:19-21.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community, and why do you think it is the Land of Opportunity?

You are never without a willing soul. We have some of the most generous, caring, compassionate people here in Modesto. People are the key to every success story.

Prime Shine Car Wash is proud to present The Land of Opportunity. Each month this series provides a forum in which to showcase the entrepreneurial achievements of a Stanislaus County business owner. Prime Shine Car Wash is proud to recognize the entrepreneurʼs ability to overcome obstacles and to honor their successes in their industry and in the community.

P R OGRE SS TO SUCCESS Ta lk d irec t ly t o th o u sa n ds o f l o c a l bu si n e sse s a n d St a nis la us C o u n ty ’s to p de c i si o n - m a k e rs.

Ad v er t is e in Pro gre ss M a ga z i n e , th e a w a rd- w i n n i n g bu si n e ss pu bl i c a ti o n of t he M o d es t o C h a m be r o f Co m m e rc e . I t’s m o re a ff o rda bl e th a n y o u m a y t h in k.

A D V E RTISE NOW C AL L : 209-526-9136 o r E-MAIL: pro gre ss@n e v e rbo rin g.co m

DECEMBER 2015

21

C O MMUNI TY DEVELO PMENT

COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY

By Sarah Jamieson, United Way, VP of Fund Development

On Friday Nov 6, the Leadership Modesto Class boarded a bus for Community Service Day. We toured five local nonprofits and visited a senior center in an effort to broaden our horizons with regard to community service in Modesto.

Valley on the issue of human trafficking since 2010. Once victims of human trafficking have been identified, Without Permission staff goes to work by helping to restore those individuals. The wonderful work that this organization is doing is in direct response to a need in our community, which was eye-opening for many of us.

We began our day with a tour of the Modesto Gospel Mission which has been providing refuge, recovery, and restoration to people in Stanislaus County for over 65 years. Open 365 SARAH JAMIESON days a year to assist those in need, Executive Director Kevin Carroll shared that their goal is to help break the cycle of homelessness. We then walked across the street to Interfaith Ministries where they were holding their Blacktop Bargain Sale. This sale happens the first Friday of each month to raise funds for the organization’s food pantry. The CEO, Elizabeth Greenlee-Harrison then shared about their Free Mobile Farmer’s Market which provides fresh fruits and vegetables to low-income neighborhoods where such items are not readily available.

The last two stops of the day shifted our group out of learning about community service and allowed us to start giving back, ourselves. Stop #1 was at our local Senior Center, which assists seniors with technology challenges. It is not surprising to learn that seniors can struggle with the ever-changing nature of technology. We were able to help program phones, explain apps and teach them to transfer photos from their cameras to their laptops. While we gave of our time, they shared their stories and touched our hearts. Our final stop took us to one of the Boys and Girls Club sites in Stanislaus County. We were welcomed into the program by student ambassadors who directed us to our groups for the day. There were obstacle courses, homework hour, some very serious ping pong games and a lot of laughter! Their Director of Operations, Sarah Bautista, spent some time educating us on their programs, which are directed to empower youth in reaching their fullest potential.

The group then traveled to Howard Training Center where Carla Strong, the Executive Director, shared with us how they serve the differently-abled individuals in our community. From personal and social training day classes to employment training in multiple areas, they are teaching people to soar.

We enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by their residents; an example of one of 20,489 meals prepared on site in October alone!

Our next stop was a presentation from Without Permission’s CEO Debbie Johnson. Without Permission has been educating people in the Central

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

Community Service Day was an incredible opportunity for the class to learn about the various areas of important work being done in our community, and provided us with a better idea of how we as leaders can give back to this city we all love so much. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “everybody can be great because everybody can serve.” We encourage all of you to go serve this holiday season! P

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Happy Happy Holidays Holidays FROM YOUR MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I PROGRESS

WORK IN

a series spotlighting some of our area’s most innovative and successful companies

A NEW LEASE ON LIFE:

THE STANISL AUS FA MILY JUSTICE CENTER

By Noel Daniel

Shipley said it was very rewarding to work there, but admitted that it was stressful for the staff who “listen to people in crisis all day long.” The work is heartbreaking, but gratifying. The hardest part? Making sure they have sufficient funds to keep their doors open, and the pressure of not having all the resources their clients need. But it’s worth every minute — and the clients think so, too.

One client in particular thanks the Stanislaus Family Justice Center for the aid in navigating her darkest days. She wrote a letter to FJC staff after having been a client since Jan. 2014, and that letter was shared with us by Shipley. The client will be kept anonymous for her privacy.

The client goes on to say that she felt compelled to seek out the Stanislaus Family Justice Center. She relied on the help of the FJC and other community efforts, such as Haven Women’s Center, to pull her through.

“God brought me to the Family Justice Center,” she writes. “He gave me an ‘army of angels’ to guide me, to shelter me, to provide for me, to listen, and best of all to fight for me – to stand up against my abuser to let him know he could never hurt us again.”

According to the website, a recent review of their statistics from Nov. 2010 to Oct. 2011 indicates that they have provided 913 services to first-time clients like this one — both adults and children. Including subsequent visits, that number rises to 1,747. Their services include a daycare, ladies’ nights, and a Civil Legal attorney to sit in the clients’ corner.

As the Stanislaus Family Justice Center grows, the number of provided services will rise substantially, helping more clients like this one to get a new lease on life.

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B r a n d i n g . S t r a t e g y. D e s i g n .

MODESTO MEANS BUSINESS The Chamber stands by this statement.

We practice it on a daily basis. As an organization, we use Chamber Members exclusively. We hope we can ‘count on you’ to practice using Chamber Members to meet all of your business needs.

You can find new and current members online at www.ModChamber.org.

Progress Magazine is the voice of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, and the leading business publication in Stanislaus County. For more information or advertising info call 209.526.9136.

“Thank you to whoever invented the FJC, for without it I would not be here today instead of being a statistic – another loss to domestic violence,” the letter finishes. “I am a survivor.

I am a Conqueror and best of all, I get to live to be my son’s mother. Thank you and God Bless.” P

neverboring.com

“I love to watch all of the pieces come together to help our clients,” said Carol Shipley, Executive Director of the Stanislaus Family Justice Center. “Whether the client is working with our Civil Legal, our partners, or utilizing our Kids Zone, you can almost see the relief in the clients’ faces.”

the past, but this time it was different. This time I was leaving for my son. I put him as my priority and made it a goal to change his future. As I lay cold, naked, and beaten in the shower, I gave it up to God.”

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT

•

The Stanislaus District Attorney’s Office, Modesto Police Department, and Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department have had Domestic Violence Units in place since 1995, and on April 15, 2009, the ordinance was passed which brought the Family Justice Center [FJC] into being.

“I left my abuser in 2015 with no knowledge of what was going to happen next for me and my son,” the client writes. “I had left in

© Never Boring

Stanislaus County has always had a strong stance against family violence. One of the county’s earliest recorded efforts is the Haven Women’s Center, founded in 1977. Haven provides domestic violence support services to battered women and their children.

DECEMBER 2015

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N E TW OR K I NG & REFERRALS

PRESIDENT’S CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

PLATINUM LEVEL

SILVER LEVEL

English Oaks Nursing &

Rabobank

E. & J. Gallo Winery

AT&T

Raymond James & Associates, Inc.

Kaiser Permanente

Acme Construction Company, Inc.

First Choice Physician Partners

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Walmart

American Chevrolet

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

Rogers Jewelry Company

Walmart Neighborhood Market

American Medical Response

F & M Bank

San Joaquin Valley College

Aramark Uniform Services

Galletto Ristorante

Smile Shine Family Dental

DIAMOND LEVEL

Atherton & Associates, LLP

Gianelli & Associates

Seven Up Bottling Corporation

Beard Land and Investment Co.

BIAlytics

Gilton Solid Waste Management, Inc.

Solecon Industrial Contractors

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc.

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse

Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc.

Solar City

Doctors Behavioral

Brandman University, Chapman

Grover Landscape Services, Inc.

Solid Networks, Inc.

H.M. Clause, Inc.

Stanislaus Distributing Stanislaus Food Products Company Stanislaus Surgical Hospital

Health Center- DMC

University System

Rehabilitation Hospital

Doctors Medical Center-DMC

Brunn & Flynn

Heald College

Frito-Lay Company, Inc.

California State University, Stanislaus

I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc.

MedAmerica Billing Services, Inc.

Care One Home Health

Infiniti of Modesto

Modesto & Empire Traction Co.

Institute of Technology

Pacific Southwest Container

Central Sanitary Supply Co.

International Paper Company

Central Valley Ag Grinding

JS West & Company

Central Valley Autism Project Inc

Kaplan College

GOLD LEVEL

Central Valley Automotive

Mercer Foods

5.11, Inc.

Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge

Mike's Knock Out Burger & Rays

Bank of the West

Central Valley Nissan

Bar-B-Que

Crystal Creamery

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

Mocse Credit Union

DoubleTree Hotel

Central Valley Medical Group

Modesto Commerce Bank

Evergreen Nursing & Rehabilitation

Central Valley Specialty Hospital

Modesto Toyota

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino

The Modesto Bee

Fiscallini Cheese Company

Clark Pest Control

Oak Valley Community Bank

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

COIT Services Inc.

O’Brien’s Market

Memorial Medical Center

Collins Electrical

Pacific Gas & Electric Company

Modesto Irrigation District

Comcast

Panelized Structures Inc.

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

Concordia Claims Managers

Papa John’s

RACOR, Division of Parker

Covanta Stanislaus, Inc.

Pepsi Bottling Group

Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios,

PMZ Real Estate

Save Mart Supermarkets

Post Foods, LLC

Seneca Foods, LLC

DeAngelos Jewelry

Prime Shine Car Wash

Switch to Vapor

Del Monte Foods

Prompt Staffing

Sysco Food Services of

Delta Sierra Beverage

The Eberhardt School of Business

Physician Referral Service-DMC

Care Center

Hannifin Corporation

Central California

and Hospice, Inc.

Pacher & Silva

Storer Coachways SunOpta Aseptic, Inc. Sutter Gould Medical Foundation TSM Insurance Turlock Irrigation District Union Bank US Bank Uno Chicago Grill Valley Children’s Healthcare Valley First Credit Union Valley Lexus-BMW Vintage Faire Mall W.H. Breshears, Inc. Warden’s Office Products Center Warden’s Office Furniture Outlet Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

Insurance Agency

Yosemite Meat Company, Inc.

D.B.A Courtesy Staffing

Taco Bell

C O M M U NI TY D EVELOP MENT

ANNOUNCEMENTS Howard Training Center invites you to our 22nd Annual CrabFest Feb. 5 and 6, 2016. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner served at 7 p.m.

All-you-can eat crab! Our famous HTC cookies & crabby cookies will be on-hand as well! Dance to the sounds of LIVIN’ from 9 - midnight.

There are two rooms filled with raffle prizes. This event sells out early — get your tickets now! To go orders available for $30. Sponsorships available. All proceeds benefit the programs provided by HTC. Tickets available at www.howardtrainingcenter.com. P

DON’T LET PAIN HOLD YOU BACK. The Darroch Brain & Spine Institute has answers.

4016 Dale Rd. Modesto, CA 95356 P: 209.571.0288 | F: 209.571.0327 dmc-neurospine.com

A BETTER WAY TO TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS

Still have questions about the Affordable Care Act? If your company is still trying to address the changes, you’re not alone. We have resources to help you find the best way forward. Visit us online to find out what you need to know and how to plan for what comes next.

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