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Note From Thrive's Executive Director
Dear Friend,
Yesterday, we were reminded of the power of love as we gathered with nearly 250 colleagues in the rain at the San Bruno Aquatic and Recreation Center. Nonprofits shared the tremendous ways they support the mental health and cultural wealth of our local youth. These are the initiatives that will sustain us during these times, and we encourage you to learn about the United for Youthplan if you haven't already. Thank you to the Sand Hill Foundation for uplifting the importance of nonprofit engagement with this plan and for sponsoring our Partnerships in Education Summit, co-hosted by San Mateo County Office of Education, Thrive Alliance, Stanford Haas Center for Public Service, and San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services.
We have also faced fears regarding new federal priorities head-on through organizing, information sharing, and coalition building. In November, Thrive presented survey results around anticipated nonprofit impacts of the incoming administration to the County, and urged action. In January, the County convened stakeholders on the new federal priorities, where Thrive's Policy & Advocacy Steering Committee presented a nonprofit perspective panel. You can read Thrive's Executive Summary of Potential Nonprofit Impacts to learn more.
We have also made sure to continue to celebrate each other as a community. On January 23, we gathered at EPACENTER for Thrive's New Year Mix & Mingle, featuring a wonderful panel of philanthropic leaders who answered the central question: how will you support nonprofits in this moment, and how can we all work together to make our response even more powerful? We also created space for fun, connection, and food on a beautiful sunny day.
In addition, Thrive continues to grow Thrive RISE, the COAD for San Mateo County, to meet the growing local need around disaster preparedness work. We are happy to report that Sequoia Healthcare District and Peninsula Health Care District have provided generous grants to spur the creation of our COAD Committees, providing stipends to nonprofit chairs for each area. We have also recently co-hosted learning sessions on wildfire and emergency readiness with the Department of Emergency Management. Thanks to our partners at DEM and to Cindy Barker, Thrive's Community Resilience Specialist, for helping lead these important efforts.
Finally, we are thrilled to share that in January, the Thrive team brought on its first-ever Chief Operating Officer, Irma Zoepf. You can read more about Irma below. We are also hiring for a Community Resilience Manager and encourage our community to apply for this position.
Please enjoy this newsletter, which highlights some of the many ways that the Thrive team continues to show up with love in service to our community in these times.
In Community,
Georgia Farooq, Executive Director
Thrive Alliance
In celebration of Black History Month, Thrive is proud to recognize and honor some of our local Black-led organizations. We encourage everyone to take a moment to explore the important work these organizations do and the positive impact they have in our community! This list is not comprehensive, and as always, we invite you to email us with suggested additions.
Spotlight on Thrive Team Members
We’re happy to announce that Irma Zoepf has joined Thrive Alliance as our first Chief Operating Officer!
Irma is a bilingual strategic leader passionate about driving impactful change through leadership development, equity and belonging strategies, and cultural transformation. She is the founder of The Z Bridge, a consulting firm specializing in these areas. Among her varied responsibilities, Irma coordinated the Nonprofit REDI Hub, a collaboration between SVCN and Thrive, to advance racial equity, diversity, and inclusion (REDI) in the nonprofit sector across San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. In recognition of this work, Irma was the recipient of SVCN’s Nonprofit Ally Award 2024, along with Packard Foundation and Applied Materials.
Irma holds a Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering and an MBA in Business Strategy, along with certifications in Lean/Six Sigma, Diversity Executive, Coaching, and Compassion Training. Her expertise in design science, culture design, and a diverse background spanning engineering, HR, and organizational management allows her to lead with a comprehensive approach to organizational growth and transformation.
Deeply committed to equity, Irma founded the Latinas in San Mateo County and Women in Silicon Valley Lean In groups. She also serves on the Commission on the Status of Women in San Mateo County, furthering her impact in advancing social justice where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Irma proudly served on Thrive Alliance’s board from 2019 through 2024, and is excited to now serve as the organization’s first Chief Operating Officer.
Thrive RISE - COAD for San Mateo County
Empowering Communities for Resilience: Enhancing Disaster Preparedness through Education and Collaboration
Community risk to natural hazards is defined as the level of exposure to hazards multiplied by the community's social vulnerability. Understanding current hazards, social vulnerabilities, and historical underinvestment can guide risk reduction and resource allocation during disasters. Data from various multi-hazard viewers, such as the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) Hazard Viewer and Cal-Adapt, provide insights into potential impacts from various natural hazards, while tools like the Aclima Neighborhood-Level Pollution Viewer and Stanford Future Bay Heat Viewer focus on specific risks like air quality and extreme heat events. Social vulnerability, influenced by conditions such as poverty and access to healthcare, varies among individuals and can affect outcomes during disasters; thus, analyzing social conditions is crucial for identifying at-risk populations.
Thrive aims to address these challenges by empowering communities through education, resources, and collaborative initiatives that enhance disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. By fostering resilience and building capacity, Thrive seeks to ensure that all community members have access to the information and support necessary to navigate hazards effectively. However, traditional vulnerability measures, often based on census data, may obscure the realities of low-income residents within mixed-income neighborhoods, highlighting the need for nuanced approaches to vulnerability assessment.
Gratitude to Sequoia Healthcare District: Invitation to Participate in COAD Issue Area Committees
Thrive received a generous grant from the Sequoia Healthcare District to develop COAD Issue Area Committees that will support planning and risk reduction initiatives in the areas of Children and Childcare; Older Adults and Access and Functional Needs (AFN); Mental Health and Spiritual Care; and Food Security. We are grateful to the Sequoia Healthcare District for their generous support in making this initiative possible.
Committee meetings are meant to serve as a forum for organizations working in the same issue areas to define the most significant risks to their client's work in the context of disaster and develop strategies for collectively reducing that risk through planning, information sharing, projects, or public education.
Gratitude for Support: Thrive Receives Grant from Peninsula Health Care District
Thrive extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Peninsula Health Care District board for their generous approval a grant to support the COAD Committee's work. This funding is vital in enhancing their initiatives aimed at improving community well-being. With this support, Thrive is well-positioned to drive meaningful change and strengthen the impact of their efforts within the community.
Nonprofits, congregations, community organizations, and agencies with expertise or interest in these issue areas are encouraged to join these committees either as members or chairs. Interested in joining a committee? Please fill out our form, and contact cindy@thrivealliance.org with any questions.
Spotlights & Recaps
Thrive New Year Mix & Mingle: A Conversation with Philanthropy
Thrive's New Year Mix & Mingle at EPACENTER was a joyful gathering, showcasing the strength and unity of our community as we embark on a new year. The event provided a platform for engaging discussion led by moderators Nadine Rambeau, Executive Director of EPACENTER and Aubrey Merriman, CEO of LifeMoves. It featured a distinguished panel of experts, including Camille Llanes-Fontanilla of The Sobrato Organization, Irene Wong of Palo Alto Community Fund, and Moses Zapien of Silicon Valley Community Foundation. This event reaffirmed our collective mission and sparked positive momentum for 2025, emphasizing the importance of resilience, partnership, and innovative solutions as we continue to serve our community during these challenging times.
Partnerships in Education Summit was built on the preview event for United for Youth Vision 2030 on November 21, 2024, an initiative to address the critical need for enhanced youth mental health services in San Mateo County. This initiative emerged from the Coalition for Safe Schools and Communities, formed in response to the Sandy Hook tragedy. The launch event was proudly sponsored by the Sand Hill Foundation, Thrive Alliance, Pal Center, the Coalition for Safe Schools and Communities at the San Mateo County Office of Education, and the Haas Center for Public Service at Stanford University. During the event, participants explored the comprehensive youth mental health plan, discussed its five key priorities, and engaged in collaborative brainstorming to align their efforts with the initiative’s objectives. The gathering fostered valuable connections among nonprofits, funders, and government representatives, paving the way for future collaboration.
The happy hour at Milagros was the perfect way to keep the momentum going! It was delightful to share vibrant conversations with our cross-sector partners and celebrate our collaborative efforts on this critical initiative.
We look forward to continuing to find ways to collaborate on the United for Youth plan going forward!
Strengthening Communities: Insights from the County & Stakeholder Federal Priorities Forum
On January 16, the County of San Mateo hosted a forum on federal priorities and their impacts on local communities, bringing together leaders and stakeholders to discuss crucial issues. Thrive Alliance co-hosted the event with organizations such as Samaritan House, Peninsula Family Service, Puente de la Costa Sur, and StarVista. The panel highlighted significant challenges facing the nonprofit sector, including the effects of federal funding cuts and rising service demands on vulnerable populations. The event emphasized the urgent need for investments in legal aid, food security, healthcare, and mental health to support these communities and address ongoing crises.
Collaborative Planning for the New Year: Insights from the County-CBO Working Group
The County-CBO working group met with the County of San Mateo Executive's Office on November 15, 2024 to discuss ways to collaboratively anticipate challenges and opportunities in the upcoming year. A special thank you to Thrive Alliance's Policy and Advocacy Steering Committee for all your contributions to this important group. Your insights are paving the way for a more unified approach to navigating the new federal priorities and their local impact.
Empowering Nonprofits: Insights from the CalNonprofits Policy Conference
We enjoyed the opportunity to gather with nonprofit colleagues at the CalNonprofits Policy Conference in Los Angeles. The picture above features members of the Thrive Alliance and the Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits teams representing the Bay Area. Themed "Strong Nonprofits for a Stronger California," the conference sparked engaging discussions on philanthropic reforms and successful nonprofit journalism models. Participants emphasized the critical roles of collaboration and advocacy in strengthening the nonprofit sector and fostering vibrant communities. Overall, the event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of building alliances and working together to drive positive change in California.
Thank you, Monterra Credit Union!
We are incredibly grateful to Monterra Credit Union for their support during International Credit Union Day on October 17, 2024! Thanks to every transaction made with Monterra debit and credit cards, we received generous donations that will significantly benefit Thrive Alliance. We enjoyed meeting with the Monterra Credit Union team. The picture above features, from left to right, Gustavo Castillo, Community Relations Manager at Monterra Credit Union; Irma Zoepf, Chief Operating Officer at Thrive Alliance; Wade Painter, President and CEO of Monterra Credit Union; Georgia Farooq, Executive Director at Thrive Alliance; and Angel Ramirez, Financial Education Specialist at Monterra Credit Union.
Thrive Alliance is dedicated to enhancing the nonprofit sector in San Mateo County by addressing workforce challenges, particularly in recruitment and retention. In collaboration with the Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits, Thrive released the 2023 Regional Nonprofit Landscape Report, identifying workforce development as a critical issue due to regional factors like the affordable housing crisis. To tackle these challenges, Thrive launched the Thriving Nonprofit Workforce Initiative, supported by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, which aims to raise awareness, generate innovative recruitment solutions, and assist nonprofits in building a robust paid and volunteer workforce through the guidance of a diverse Steering Committee. Check out some of the great programs of the Thriving Nonprofit Workforce Initiative.
Nonprofit Recruitment & Retention Learning Community
Thrive is launching a Learning Community designed to strengthen the capacity of San Mateo County small to mid-sized nonprofits in recruitment and retention. In partnership with Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Thrive will provide tailored training, practical resources, and facilitated opportunities to connect with staff and board candidates. In addition, we will gather data and best practices from the Learning Community to share more broadly with the local nonprofit community. This builds on last HR Learning Series.
Thrive OnBoard is an exciting annual event designed to connect individuals interested in joining nonprofit boards. The event includes workshops, networking opportunities, and ways to engage with nonprofit organizations. It is part of the Thriving Nonprofit Workforce Initiative and is free for attendees, thanks to support from The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and other key partners. Be sure to save the date for OnBoard 2025, which will be held on April 23, 2025 at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Community Space. OnBoard 2025 will provide participants with an opportunity to continue the mission of fostering connections and enhancing the skills needed for effective nonprofit governance in the years to come.
Participate in the 2025 Compensation & Benefits Survey: Key Insights for Northern California Nonprofits
The 2025 Compensation & Benefits Survey for Northern California nonprofits is now open for participation, with new job categories in Development, Education/Recreation, Housing, and Social Services/Behavioral Health. This year’s survey includes an updated section addressing the economic environment, focusing on employee engagement, retention, and contract adjustments due to inflation. By participating, organizations will gain access to critical data on compensation, employee benefits, and workplace policies that can assist them in navigating the challenges posed by low unemployment and high costs.
Conducted by Nonprofit Compensation Associates, the survey covers 48 counties in Northern California and garnered participation from 794 nonprofits last year, making it the largest in its history. Organizations can benefit from discounted report prices based on their annual operating expenses, with various tiers available.
To participate in the 2025 survey (and acquire the 2024 survey report via our “2-for-1” offer, if you don’t already have it), visit www.nonprofitcomp.com, email Nonprofit Compensation Associates at survey@nonprofitcomp.com or call 510-645-1005.
Translation Services Hub
Thrive Alliance has a Translation Services Hub for nonprofits, supported by the Silicon Valley Community Foundation (SVCF). This initiative provides free language translation and interpretation services to enhance community access, driven by insights from a recent Executive Director Workforce Shortage Roundtable. With input from an Advisory Committee of local nonprofit leaders, we aim to promote collaboration among nonprofits for greater impact. We currently offer services in languages such as Chinese, Filipino, and Spanish for digital materials and in-person and virtual events.
Thrive is committed to highlighting the incredible organizing power of our local nonprofit and partner communities always and especially during this time. We have created a new Post-Election Resources section to Thrive Weekly to do just that. By working collectively and shining a light on our sector's collaborative, caring power, we will lighten each others' loads as we renew ways to safeguard our diverse communities.
Stay updated on the latest post-election resources by subscribing to our weekly newsletter Thrive Weekly
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The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
The League of Women Voters is dedicated to defending democracy. Here are a few ways they will be leading the charge in the coming months:
The County of San Mateo Office of Community Affairs is addressing community concerns about safety and anxiety related to public charge and mass deportations by providing updated resources on their revamped website. They will continue to share information via social media and keep partners informed about available County resources.
Find Legal Assistance | County of San Mateo, CA - Free and low cost immigration service providers, US Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) resources, housing legal services, employment legal services, DACA resources and more.
Keep your Benefits - Get the facts about public charge & immigration, including a guide to see if public benefits could affect different immigration options.
Immigrant Services Resources and Information - Includes community and mental health resources, translation & interpretation services and information about the San Mateo County Rapid Response Hotline at 203-666-4472 (203-NO-MIGRA).
LIBRE — The Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County - Linking Immigrants to Benefits, Resources & Education (LIBRE) LIBRE provides legal advice and representation related to: Medi-Cal, CalFresh (food stamps), CalWORKs, Social Security/SSI/CAPI, U Visa (immigration relief for crime survivors), VAWA (Violence Against Women Act), SIJS (immigration relief for minor survivors of parental abuse, neglect, or abandonment) and certain other immigration cases.
Racial Justice and Equity
In collaboration with SVCN, Thrive has remained committed to supporting nonprofits in their endeavors related to the Nonprofit Racial Equity Pledge over the past year. Through our partnership, we engaged over 100 nonprofit leaders in our Racial Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion (REDI) Hub programs. Our curriculum included important training on Psychological Safety for Nonprofit Leaders, emphasizing the creation of a collaborative and inclusive work environment. In May, we shifted our focus to Board Governance and Cultural Humility, exploring the integration of cultural humility within organizational structures and boards. Furthermore, we launched a valuable resource within the Nonprofit REDI Hub: monthly office hours. These sessions offer Thrive Alliance and SVCN members personalized support and insights on embedding REDI principles into their operations. Participants have exchanged valuable experiences and best practices during these discussions.
Join Our Thriving Nonprofit Membership!
We are extremely proud of our membership, which broadly represents San Mateo County's nonprofit, public sector, corporate, and philanthropic community.
In addition to providing critical support for the local nonprofit sector, Thrive membership offers many tangible benefits. Thrive members are able to:
Attend exclusive events to connect with nonprofit, philanthropic, business, and civic leaders
Share important organization updates and event announcements with our Thrive community network
Promote job and volunteer opportunities to find the right candidates faster
Represent their organization to potentially hundreds of prospective board members
Connect with nonprofit executives at exclusive Leadership Circle Luncheons
Participate in advocacy on important issues that impact local nonprofits and communities, including increasing outreach and education for elections
Take advantage of special offers and complimentary benefits to do more with your time and resources
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