Community In Focus

In this powerful episode of Community in Focus, Tim Ney sits down with John Echevarria, Colton’s District 4 council member, police officer, coach, and devoted father, for a deeply personal conversation about service, resilience, and the life-changing impact of community support. John shares his journey growing up in the housing projects of San Bernardino, raised by a single mother whose unwavering belief in education shaped his future. From moments of childhood hardship and loss to a calling in law enforcement sparked by tragedy, his story is one of transformation and purpose. He reflects on how Catholic Charities San Bernardino & Riverside Counties once supported his own family during their most difficult times—and how that experience continues to fuel his commitment to give back. This episode explores the power of mentorship, the importance of local colleges in opening doors, the realities of frontline service, and what it truly means to lead with compassion. It’s an inspiring reminder that the investment we make in families and young people today can shape community leaders for generations to come.

This week on Community in Focus Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. to share stories about growing up in the Inland Empire, lessons in resilience and service, and the power of partnership among local government, nonprofits, and the community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about faith, family, and giving back.

In this episode of Community in Focus, CEO Tim Ney sits down with Perris Mayor Michael Vargas to talk about the city’s growth, vision for local development, commitment to public safety, and efforts to end childhood hunger. Together, they explore how faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and city leadership can work hand in hand to uplift the community and bring lasting change.

In this episode of Community in Focus, CEO Tim Ney sits down with Mayor Jim Steiner of Corona to explore his journey from firefighter to public servant. Mayor Steiner shares stories of his upbringing, decades of service in the fire department, the influence of his family, and his deep commitment to supporting youth and families in the community.

In this inspiring episode, Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson. Born and raised in Riverside, Mayor Lock Dawson shares her journey from studying biology at UC Riverside to serving as a park ranger and ultimately stepping into public office. She reflects on the importance of education instilled by her family, her work in public policy, and the role of partnerships in tackling pressing issues like youth and veteran homelessness. Together, they discuss what makes Riverside unique, the city’s spirit of collaboration, and the importance of supporting vulnerable communities.

In this episode of Community in Focus, Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina to discuss his journey from Panama to California, his passion for education, and his service through the Peace Corps. They explore how family values, Catholic upbringing, and a love for teaching shaped his career in public service, and why he encourages young people to follow their passions and pursue lifelong learning.

In this episode, we sit down with Greg Bradbard, CEO of the IEHP Foundation. From his early days at UCI to a transformative college internship, Greg shares how his passion for helping others led him into the nonprofit world. He reflects on the qualities that make an effective nonprofit leader and highlights the importance of collaboration across organizations to better serve the Inland Empire.

In this episode of Community in Focus we sit down with Matt Kill CEO of Hyperbolt to explore how technology and compassion can intersect for good. Matt shares how his company partnered with Catholic Charities to implement an AI powered phone line designed to improve our call answer rate and better serve those in need. We dive into the ethical responsibilities of using AI in the nonprofit space and Matt opens up about his personal journey from growing up in Australia to being inspired by his mother who served as Deputy Director General to ultimately using his skills to make a social impact.

In this episode, we sit down with Father Jose, whose journey of faith began in the Philippines. Inspired by the church at a young age, he followed a calling to become a priest and served as a missionary in Timor, where he devoted years to spiritual service and community support. Eventually, Father Jose came to the United States to care for his sister and continued his mission of compassion and faith here in America. Tune in as he shares his remarkable story of dedication, family, and service across borders.

In this episode of Community in Focus we sit down with James Alkhass, a barber and dedicated parishioner at St. Matthew’s. Born in Kuwait, James reflects on his early years as an altar boy, his family’s immigration journey to Michigan, and the experiences that shaped him as they settled in California. He shares how his faith, family, and community have guided his path and how he now gives back through both his profession and his parish life.

In this episode of Community In Focus, Mayor John Dutrey of Montclair shares his personal journey of growing up in the city he now leads. From his early years in Montclair to his path into public service, Mayor Dutrey reflects on the experiences that shaped his commitment to community. He discusses his passion for serving others, the challenges and rewards of leadership, and his vision for Montclair’s future. This heartfelt conversation offers a glimpse into the life of a dedicated public servant who never forgot where he came from.

This week on Community in Focus Council Member Carlos Garcia shares his powerful journey from escaping the Nicaraguan War as a child to becoming a leader in his community. He reflects on the sacrifices his family made and the people who helped guide him along the way. His story is a testament to the importance of giving back and lifting others up just as others once did for him.

This week on Community in Focus we sit down with one of our board members and the principal of Notre Dame High School in Riverside. He shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Corona, studying at Cal State San Bernardino, entering the priesthood, and now leading with heart as a school principal. Along the way, he speaks to the importance of forgiveness and how it shapes his approach to education and leadership. His story is grounded in compassion, education, and a deep commitment to shaping young lives.

In this episode, we sit down with Mario Saucedo, Mayor of Redlands and a proud third-generation Redlander. Mario shares his deep family roots in the city, their legacy of service through the military and the church, and how his mother instilled in him the value of hard work from a young age. He also discusses his vision for Redlands, including his ongoing efforts to beautify the city and create a stronger, more connected community. It’s a conversation about legacy, leadership, and love for one’s hometown.

In this inspiring episode of Community in Focus, Catholic Charities COO Jesse Gonzalez shares his powerful story of resilience, leadership, and service. Growing up in San Bernardino, Jesse found purpose and discipline on the high school football field. But it was the support of mentors, family, and a deep desire to give back that pushed him to pursue higher education and rise through the ranks of nonprofit leadership. Now serving as Chief Operating Officer, Jesse opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his path, his passion for community, and his vision for the future of Catholic Charities San Bernardino & Riverside Counties.

In this inspiring episode of Community in Focus, we sit down with Mayor Helen Tran of San Bernardino for an intimate look at her journey from growing up in a working-class neighborhood in San Diego to becoming the first Asian American mayor of San Bernardino. Mayor Tran shares how her early experiences shaped her resilience, how getting involved in political campaigns during high school sparked her passion for public service, and how a deep love for coffee fuels her busy days. Tune in to hear about her commitment to community, her vision for the future of San Bernardino, and the values that guide her leadership.

In this episode of Community in Focus, we talk with Mathean Parentela, Hunger Relief Coordinator at Catholic Charities San Bernardino & Riverside Counties. As a first-generation American, Mathean shares her story of growing up in an immigrant household, pursuing her education, and finding a calling in service to others. Her personal experiences have shaped a deep commitment to fighting food insecurity and supporting families in need. Discover how her journey led her to Catholic Charities and the impact she makes through the Hunger Relief program.

In this episode of Community in Focus, we sit down with Catholic Charities board member Dr. Tim Jenkins. He shares his inspiring journey growing up in Tennessee, his path to Harvard, and what led him to pursue a career in medicine. Dr. Jenkins reflects on the values that shaped him, the importance of giving back, and why he’s passionate about supporting underserved communities through his work and board service. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, perseverance, and the power of community.

In this episode of Community in Focus, Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Agustin Avantes, our dedicated Program Director, to share his inspiring journey. Born in Mexico, Agustin immigrated to the United States as a child, navigating the challenges of a new country while embracing the opportunities ahead. Through hard work and determination, he became a U.S. citizen and dedicated his career to serving others. Now, as a leader at Catholic Charities San Bernardino & Riverside Counties, Agustin plays a vital role in developing programs that uplift and empower our community. Tune in to hear his powerful story of perseverance, faith, and service.

In the first episode of Community in Focus, CEO Tim Ney sits down with board member Don Averill to explore his journey from growing up on a farm in California to becoming a dedicated advocate for education and community service. Don shares insights into his early life, the values instilled in him through hard work, his education and career path, and what led him to support Catholic Charities. His passion for service and belief in the power of education make for an inspiring conversation about giving back and making a lasting impact.