Page 2 – Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties

Samoan Language & Performing Arts: Building Histories & Creating Belonging

In the summer of 2024, Cal State San Marcos launched the university’s first ever Gagana Sāmoa Language & Performing Arts Program, giving 30 children and 30 adults the opportunity to learn Samoan language, culture, and traditional practices including song and dance. For many students, the program was their first opportunity to formally learn Gagana Samoa, … Continue reading

National Conflict Resolution Center: Building Belonging in San Diego Schools

National Conflict Resolution Center (NCRC) is a grantee partner of the statewide Stop the Hate program, funded through the California Department of Social Services

Catalyst Biweekly Policy Briefing Issue XVI: Votes, Vetoes, and Victories

Hello again. This week’s briefing lands in your inbox a day early because tomorrow, July 4, is the Independence Day holiday. We invite you to join us in celebrating the America that we want and deserve: one that lifts up its people, supports those in need, and welcomes those pursuing a safe and prosperous future. … Continue reading

Welcoming Two New Board Members: Diana Ross and Eric Morrison-Smith

We are pleased to announce that Diana Ross, executive director of Mid-City CAN, and Eric Morrison-Smith, executive director of the Alliance for Boys and Men of Color, have joined the Catalyst Board of Directors. In the words of our CEO, Megan Thomas, “Diana and Eric bring more than expertise — they are trusted collaborators, with … Continue reading Welcoming Two New Board Members: Diana Ross and Eric Morrison-Smith

Do the Work Border: Humanizing the Migrant Experience

As part of our Do the Work series, Catalyst members recently embarked on a powerful learning journey visiting nonprofits and communities on both sides of the border where philanthropy is making a critical difference. Read on to discover key takeaways from the trip and recommendations for philanthropy moving forward. San Ysidro hosts the busiest land … Continue reading

Catalyst Biweekly Policy Briefing Issue XV: Strength in Numbers

Hello again. While we’ve faced dramatic policy shifts and funding cuts since January, the past two weeks in California have felt particularly challenging. While immigration enforcement dominated headlines, more than 60,000 people gathered in downtown San Diego and the Imperial Valley to protest the administration’s actions. Meanwhile, the Senate unveiled its version of the budget … Continue reading

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest San Diego offers youth a space of belonging and tools to be a positive force in their community

Change starts in the hearts and minds of children. This ethos is fully embraced by the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest San Diego (BGC), which for decades has served as a place of belonging for at-promise youth from Camp Pendleton and Oceanside to Del Mar and Carmel Valley. BGC serves more than 16,000 individuals … Continue reading

Catalyst Biweekly Policy Briefing Issue XIV: Budget & Enforcement

Hello again. Here’s a look at what happened this week. (Catch up on our previous installments of this briefing here.) THE FACTS Federal Budget The Senate has been actively negotiating its version of the reconciliation bill that passed the House several weeks ago, with today set as an informal deadline to finalize the … Continue reading Catalyst Biweekly Policy Briefing Issue XIV: Budget & Enforcement

transcenDANCE: Young San Diegans harness personal resilience through performance art and holistic support

On a recent evening in City Heights, young people filled the stage at the Hoover High School Performing Arts Center. A packed audience, full of families, friends, and volunteers shouted out the names of dancers and cheered energetically for each performance. Each dancer had a chance to shine, with performances thoughtfully crafted to showcase the … Continue reading

Catalyst Weekly Policy Briefing Issue XIII: Budget Breakdown

Hello again. Here’s a look at what happened this week. (Catch up on our previous installments of this briefing here.) THE FACTS THE FEDERAL BUDGET A budget bill has passed in the House and is now under consideration in the Senate. The news for nonprofits and foundations remains mixed, and the Senate will … Continue reading

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