“I give because San Bernardino has already given so much to me. I get to see the efforts and the passion of the SBCUSD and its students every single day and what I see are students who deserve chances to continue learning, to remain hopeful and ambitious, and to know that they are absolutely worth as much as the next student. If my gifts can play a part in making all of that possible, let’s do it!”

“I give because it is one why that I can contribute to making a difference. I strongly believe that educating our children and providing options to help them achieve their goals is the job of everyone in our community. This is not just the job of educators.”

“I give because San Bernardino is my hometown. I was born in this city, graduated from Cajon High School, and have remained in this city that I am proud to call home. I have been fortunate to meet some outstanding young people on my path, and if I can help impact their life in some way then I know that I have made a difference. I give because I not only see their potential, I see our future in our young people. I believe that they are truly our best investment.”

“I give because it’s the thing to do. I don’t have a lot of financial resources but what I do have is empathy and patience. So, working with the Making Hope Happen Foundation allows me to share my experiences and small tips with others who actually need the help. First generation college students need and deserve some help – even in small forms…and that’s where I come in…to help. In short, that’s why I give. Because giving is helping and helping is the thing to do.”

“Why do I give? It’s quite simple…because someone gave to me. As a young girl growing up in a working class family on the westside of San Bernardino, my future may not have seemed bright. But I had many mentors and role models in San Bernardino City Unified who encouraged me, inspired me and helped me reach my dreams. My journey from San Bernardino High School, to UC Berkeley, to now being a business owner and community leader, was a direct result of those who gave their time to me. In honor of people like Mary Alice Stenson, Joyce Walker and Judy Kissinger, I gladly give back to my hometown and only hope that I can inspire a student to be a success story.”

“I give because I live in San Bernardino and I have raised my children here. The kids in this district matter to me. The Making Hope Happen Foundation empowers kids to find and realize their dreams. There are no handouts, there are opportunities for work, for learning, and for growth. Those three things are a recipe for successful citizens, family members, business people, and people of character.”

“I give because that is my reasonable service. I give because giving puts the impossible in reach for others! Giving is an extension of love and I was created to love all! With giving to this foundation my gift will allow our students to come closer to their goals and dreams. I give as an investment into our future! Our students have so much talent and giving allows them to develop their goals and dreams! Giving denounces obstacles! I give with the HOPE that it will impact someone’s life enough that they will never give up on their dreams!!! I give to make hope happen!”

“I give because it’s something that is important to me. I adore helping out my mentees. These are students with so much potential and thirst for success and it’s a blessing to watch them grow and help them in any way I can. That’s why I give.”

“Making Hope Happen Foundation is a great cause, and has made exemplary progress in the community! I’m THRILLED that my company was able to make a contribution towards the continued success of the foundation!”

“The reason I give is because I really do get excited when I see people thriving. The Making Hope Happen Foundation aims to make sure students, despite the challenges they face growing up, remain positive and confident that their goals are still obtainable. Of course I’d like to contribute to that mission.”

“I give because I’m constantly putting myself in their shoes. If I needed help or even just a friend, I would appreciate someone being there. So I give because I want to be there for those who need my help. I want to see magic happen and I want people to believe they are capable of anything. I may not be able to help everyone or help out everywhere…but when I can? Without a doubt, I’m there for my family, my friends, or my community.”

“I give because helping others has been an important aspect of who I am as far back as I can remember. My family influenced me as powerful models of giving to others and my faith inspires me to serve others. I am blessed with a career that allows me to pursue my passion in such fulfilling ways. Bottom line, it’s who I am.”

“I give because I have been a Rotarian for 18 years and have always believed that it is important to give back to the community, both in time and money. When we were planning our SBHS Class of ’67 reunion, it seemed like a great opportunity for many of us who no longer live in San Bernardino to give back to the community we grew up in. I give because helping these students achieve their dreams and goals just seems like the right thing to do.”

“I give because I like to envision a better tomorrow. I want to see those in my community flourish and thrive and if I can give some of my time to make that possible…I’ll do it. I give because I want my children to grow in a world where people help each other and root for one another.”