California Stewardship Network Celebrates 12 New Organizations

800 350 Jania Palacios

The California Stewardship Network (CSN) – an alliance of regional leaders who are committed to improving government and creating inclusive, sustainable growth – welcomed 12 organizations to the network in 2020.

“From top to bottom, east to west, coastal and inland, urban and rural, the California Stewardship Network is built on a foundation of collaboration to move triple-bottom-line solutions that balance equity, the environment and the economy,” said Heidi Hill Drum, co-chair of the network and CEO of the Tahoe Prosperity Center.

With 31 total organizations and growing, the CSN represents the diversity of the state’s regions. The new organizations include:

3CORE, Inc.’s mission is cultivating healthy businesses, because people matter. 3CORE does this by acting as a convener, connector and financial intermediary in Butte, Glenn and Tehama Counties.

“The work of the California Stewardship Network shows that thoughtful collaboration and creativity are the keys to creating an equitable and prosperous economy that takes into account our differences and builds upon our strengths,” said Chelsea Irving, community resource manager, 3CORE.

Central Valley Community Foundation has provided giving options for individuals, families, businesses and other foundations to invest in programs that address social and environmental needs since 1966.

“The California Stewardship Network provides us that network of thought leaders throughout California giving us an opportunity to strategically align under the essential components needed to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” said Sarah Moffat, director of external affairs for the Central Valley Community Foundation.

Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce has been a driving force in the local economy since its founding in 1920.

Kern Community Foundation embraces a mission of Growing Community, Growing Philanthropy. For more than 20 years, the foundation’s programs and initiatives have made a significant impact in the community.

Inland Empire Community Foundation is the oldest and largest community foundation serving the Inland region of the state. Its mission is to strengthen the Inland Empire through philanthropy.

North Bay Leadership Council is an employer-led public policy advocacy organization committed to providing leadership in ways to make the North Bay sustainable, prosperous and innovative.

“Solving regional problems requires regional cooperation and collaboration. Being a part of the California Stewardship Network helps us explore best practices, find partners and share experience so we are able to achieve our goals of resilience, diversity, equity and innovation,” said Cynthia Murray, CEO of North Bay Leadership Council.

REACH is a private sector-led coalition committed to solving shared challenges and shaping a vibrant economic future for more than half a million people in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties.

“The ideas we’ve shared and connections we’ve made with like-minded regional leaders through our involvement with California Stewardship Network have been invaluable in launching our 10-year REACH 2030 vision for creating a sustainable, equitable economy on the Central Coast,” said Melissa James, president and CEO of REACH.

California State University, Chico – North State Planning and Development Collective provides services and resources to the region’s businesses, governments, and residents by pairing GIS mapping services and broadband infrastructure support with economic development research, surveying, analysis, planning and implementation throughout the state of California.

Lift to Rise is a collective impact organization that works to achieve a future where all Coachella Valley families are healthy, stable and thriving.

San Mateo County Economic Development Association (SAMCEDA) was founded in 1953 to promote business issues that enhance and sustain the economic prosperity of our region and its local communities.

“No one organization or person can effectively create opportunities for a fair, just and sustainable economy. Being a part of the California Stewardship Network and linking with other regions, SAMCEDA can learn, share and grow with through increased knowledge and collaboration,” said Rosanne Foust, president and CEO of SAMCEDA.

Stanislaus Community Foundation has been a catalyst to transform local resources into common good through strategic philanthropy and bold leadership.

UNITE-LA is dedicated to preparing students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to succeed in college, career and civic life.

“UNITE-LA is thrilled to join the California Stewardship Network,” said UNITE-LA CEO David Rattray. “As a long-time business intermediary and cross-sector convener, we value this opportunity to collaborate with organizations and leaders across the state to strengthen the California economy at a time when Californians are facing immense challenges. We look forward to working with the CSN to build a strong, equitable cradle-to-career education system that provides economic opportunity for all Californians.”

In 2019, the CSN joined California Forward (CA FWD), which serves as the backbone of the network. The CSN also co-presents the annual California Economic Summit gathering with CA FWD and advances the year-round work of the Summit. CA FWD will continue to support and grow the network in 2021.

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Jania Palacios

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