Welcome to Thrive Weekly! This newsletter is your comprehensive resource for staying updated within our vibrant community. Every week, we provide timely information about upcoming Thrive events, partner events, community safety resources, and important announcements. Join us in fostering community engagement as we keep you informed about topics that matter to you.
If you would like to promote an upcoming opportunity to Thrive members and the larger community, you can submit the information here.
Thrive Events & Announcements
Thrive Alliance and SVCN Release Nonprofit Pulse Report on Federal Impacts in Local Sector
The report is based on a survey of more than 160 nonprofit leaders across the two counties and offers a snapshot of how nonprofits are navigating rising demand for services, funding uncertainty, workforce strain, and the operational impacts of federal policy shifts.
Across the region, nonprofit leaders report that organizations are adapting and collaborating to meet growing needs–but that financial pressures and policy volatility are creating new challenges for sustaining services.
This report represents the first step in a broader effort to track how federal decisions are affecting the nonprofit sector and the communities it serves. In the coming months, we will also release additional analyses examining federal funding flows into the regional nonprofit ecosystem and what may be at risk as federal policy decisions continue to evolve.
Nonprofit Pulse Report Findings Featured in Redwood City Pulse and Palo Alto Online
Hannah Bensen's article, "Local Nonprofits Strained by Funding Cuts and Shifts in Federal Policy" delves into the findings of Thrive and SVCN’s recently released Nonprofit Pulse Report. Thrive's CEO Georgia Farooq was interviewed for this piece, which highlights the significant challenges local nonprofits in San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties are currently facing, including reduced federal funding and a dramatic increase in demand for services:
"Demand for services skyrocketed. We are not able to keep pace." With increased demand and reduced financial strength, some nonprofits are facing closure, Farooq said. Should that happen, individuals and families may not receive certain services from organizations that may have served specific communities in culturally appropriate ways, she said.
“You have these really wonderful small nonprofits that have built these deep relationships in the community, and suddenly, they’re not able to provide those services,” Farooq said. “Maybe you’re talking about 50 families, but that is 50 families that received really important resources, and maybe they’ll fall through the cracks.”
The report found an increased openness for nonprofit collaboration, cost sharing and even merging. Nonprofit leaders also say they most need unrestricted funding, reduced administrative burden from partner organizations, support from philanthropic organizations and individuals.
We are thrilled to announce that board candidate registration is officially OPEN forOnBoard 2026!This year marks the eighth Thrive OnBoard, the ultimate board matching event for San Mateo County nonprofits.
We are bringing together nearly 50 nonprofit organizations—ranging from environmental justice and education to human services and the arts—all seeking the dedicated leadership to drive their missions forward. Whether you are a seasoned board member or a first-time volunteer leader, your diverse perspective and expertise can make a difference in a local nonprofit.
Recruit your next board leaders at Thrive OnBoard 2026! If you are a local nonprofit looking to recruit more board members, register now to exhibit at our annual OnBoard event. Hosted on April 22 in Redwood City, this event is the ultimate opportunity to showcase your organization to a diverse pool of local professionals and community members eager to serve. To ensure you find a great match, Nonprofit Exhibitors also receive access to a new Virtual Workshop Series focused on strategic recruitment and board readiness. Don’t miss this chance to make impactful connections.
OnBoard 2026 is your chance to showcase your work, network with experts, and engage with diverse professionals who are eager to make a difference. Together, let’s build a thriving nonprofit workforce! Registration is filling up quickly. Be sure to secure your spot soon.
At the Table: Building Relationships in Local Government
Thursday, April 23, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
In-Person
This training focuses on effectively engaging local officials to advance policy and advocacy goals.
Build a deeper understanding of how to engage local elected officials and government staff effectively. This training will break down navigating relationship-building within legal parameters,securing key votes, and understanding when to meet with elected officials and government staff.
Through real-life examples and practice, you will strengthen your ability to advance your organization or coalition's policy priorities and advocacy campaign goals.
We are seeking skilled translators and interpreters to join our Translation Services Hub, a network that helps San Mateo County nonprofits expand meaningful language access. Our goal is to ensure every resident can receive information and services in their native language.
By joining, you will help nonprofits better serve diverse communities and strengthen equity across the country. If you are passionate about language justice and have experience in translation or interpretation, please complete this form. Together, we can break down barriers and ensure all community members have access to vital information and support.
Please contact Yajaira Ortega if you have any questions.
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 this Community Safety Resources section for Thrive Weekly to do just that. By working collectively and shining a light on our sector's collaborative, caring power, we will lighten each other's loads as we renew ways to safeguard our diverse communities.
Invitation to the Town Hall Meeting with Your Representative
Thursday, April 9, 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Join the community for a Town Hall hosted by the representative for California’s 15th Congressional District at the College of San Mateo Theater. This event provides a valuable opportunity for constituents to engage with their representative and discuss pressing concerns regarding the federal government. With limited space for in-person attendance, residents are encouraged to register for tickets in advance. Participation is vital, whether attendees have questions, concerns, or simply wish to learn more about the work being done on their behalf. Town halls like this are essential for understanding the issues that matter most to the community and ensuring their voices are heard in Congress.
Training on Creating Safer Community Spaces for Nonprofits
Wednesday, March 25, 2:00 pm
Zoom
The SAVE Act is back in sheep’s clothing, but don’t be fooled. It’s the same wolf underneath.. Supporters of the bill say that it is necessary to keep non-citizens from voting. Critics point out that only citizens can vote under federal law and warn that the bill only creates new hurdles with unintended consequences. Since the SAVE Act was first introduced in 2025, several states have advanced their own versions at the state level, bringing the complications closer to home for many nonprofits conducting nonpartisan voter engagement.
If you’re planning to do voter engagement this year (which we hope you are!), you’ll want to hear these updates to learn how it might impact your work and how to ensure our democracy stays equitable, accessible, and fair. Join us to hear from Andrew Garber at the Brennan Center, Daniel Griffith from the Voting Rights Lab, and more!
Join the League of Women Voters of South San Mateo County and Menlo Park Speaks Out for a powerful gathering on Saturday, March 28, from 2 to 4 PM along El Camino Real, from Santa Cruz Avenue to Middle Avenue on the east side of the 101. This event aims to unite the community in a collective expression of support for justice, equality, and civic engagement. Participants are encouraged to invite family and friends, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with shared voices and messages of hope. As the group gathers, they invite attendees to find their favorite spots to stand or bring chairs to sit comfortably while engaging in meaningful conversations and activities. Don’t forget to bring your signs, flags, and singing voices to add to the energy of this important gathering. Together, they hope to inspire a renewed commitment to the values of morality, freedom, and kindness as they continue the legacy of activism in their community.
March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the leadership, creativity, and impact of women in San Mateo County. Join us in honoring and uplifting women’s voices throughout the month.
Art Talks Participate in engaging discussions like "The Goddess: Images of Power," exploring themes of art and women's history.
Future in the Field Event (March 28): A community event with CoastPride, Allcove, and Futures Commission in Half Moon Bay
Applications Open for Leadership Council San Mateo County 10-Month Programs
Leadership Council San Mateo County is now accepting applications for its 2026–2027 10-month leadership programs: Leadership CORPS for senior leaders and Emerging Leaders for early- to mid-career professionals. Open to those who live or work in San Mateo County, both programs help participants make meaningful progress in their work and communities while fostering cross-sector collaboration. Apply by Friday, May 1, 2026!
Commute.org Launches Second Cycle of Community Partner Program for San Mateo County Nonprofits
Commute.org is launching its second cycle of the Community Partner Program and is now accepting applications from eligible San Mateo County nonprofits. The program will award up to five organizations $10,000 per year for two years, beginning July 1, 2026, to help engage underrepresented communities and increase awareness of commuter benefits and transportation services. Applications are due March 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. PT.
Learn more and access the full application materials here.
Pride Center: 3rd Annual Trans Week of Visibility
The Pride Center is excited to announce the 3rd Annual Trans Week of Visibility, set to take place from March 23rd to March 31st. This week-long celebration is dedicated to honoring and uplifting the Trans, Non-Binary, and Gender Diverse community, offering a wide range of events designed to foster joy, connection, and access to valuable resources.
Workshop Schedule:
A Mixer for Families of Trans Kids - Monday, 3/23 from 6-7:30 PM
Legal Name & Gender Change Workshop - Wednesday, 3/25 from 6-7:30 PM
Becoming More Visibly You: Gender Affirmation Workshop - Thursday, 3/26 from 5-7 PM
Belonging In Nature - Sunset Hike at Mori Point - Friday, 3/27 from 5:45-8:15 PM
Glitter and Glam: An Intro to Drag - Saturday, 3/28 from 2:30-5:30 PM
Pronouns 101 Workshop - Sunday, 3/29 from 10:30 AM-12:30 PM
Blue Zones Ignite San Mateo County Community Keynote Event
Tues, April 7, 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm, In-Person
Peninsula Health Care District is partnering with Blue Zones to explore how our community can create environments that make healthy choices easier, supporting people to live longer, better lives at every stage.
The community is invited to attend a special Blue Zones Keynote Presentation marking the official launch of the Ignite Assessment in San Mateo County.
Why this Keynote Matters
This keynote will set the vision for the Ignite Assessment and introduce the research, stories, and possibilities behind Blue Zones. It’s an opportunity to:
Learn how other communities have successfully improved well-being
Understand what the Assessment will explore in San Mateo County
Hear inspiring examples of small changes that can lead to big community impact
Get energized about what’s possible when a community comes together around well-being
The 14th Annual Orgullo y Educacion (OYE) celebrates a pivotal gathering for hundreds of local youth ages 12-22, alongside their parents, as they explore important questions of identity and purpose. The event promises an engaging day filled with hands-on workshops, inspirational speakers, artistic expression, community resource sharing, and networking opportunities, all designed to strengthen community ties. Attendees can also enjoy free breakfast and lunch provided for all in-person participants. The OYE 2026 Planning Committee is eagerly looking forward to this celebration, which is recognized as a Fiscally Sponsored Project of the Redwood City Parks and Arts Foundation.
Join Art Bias for an inspiring afternoon of creativity and conversation, where everyone is welcome to explore a diverse range of artistic styles, from traditional to contemporary. It's always free to attend, and donations are appreciated. As you stroll through our studios, take the opportunity to chat with the artists, ask questions, and gain insights into their techniques, all while discovering new favorite artists and artworks that resonate with you.
World Café 2026 is a vibrant, in-person community gathering filled with meaningful conversations, new connections, and great energy. Join for an evening of storytelling and dialogue!
This year’s theme centers youth voices as young panelists share their experiences, perspectives, and ideas for change. Together, community members and local leaders will listen, learn, and explore ways to build trust and create more welcoming spaces for youth in Redwood City through stronger programs, safer third spaces, and meaningful civic engagement.
Homework Central will host "Stars in the Making," a gala fundraising event aimed at supporting its mission to provide vital academic support for students in five different San Mateo elementary schools. The event will take place at the Assembly Room in the San Mateo Senior Center and will feature hors d’oeuvres, beverages, speakers, and an auction. They look forward to seeing everyone there!
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