Empower Your Safety: Wildfire Preparedness Webinar
Tues, January 21, 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm, Virtual
Join us for a crucial free Zoom presentation on wildfire safety hosted by the San Mateo County Department of Emergency Management and Thrive Alliance on Tuesday, January 21st, from 4 PM to 4:45 PM. This informative session will equip you with essential knowledge to protect your home, family, and community from the threat of wildfires. Learn about easy preparedness strategies, how to create go bags, establish defensible space, and discover free and low-cost resources. Participate in a virtual scavenger hunt for a chance to earn prizes while enhancing your wildfire readiness!
Thrive's New Year Mix & Mingle: A Conversation with Philanthropy
Thur, January 23, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm, In-Person (Doors Open at 11AM)
Thrive's New Year Mix & Mingle will feature festive connection alongside an insightful panel discussion with prominent community leaders. Moderated by Nadine Rambeau, Executive Director at EPACENTER, and Aubrey Merriman, Chief Executive Officer at LifeMoves, the event will showcase perspectives in philanthropy from Moses Zapien, EVP of Community Action, Initiatives and Policy at Silicon Valley Community Foundation; Camille Llanes-Fontanilla, Vice President of Silicon Valley Programs at The Sobrato Organization; and Irene Wong, CEO of the Palo Alto Community Foundation. This is a fantastic opportunity to be inspired by colleagues and engage in dialogue on the most pressing issues.
To ensure accessibility for all attendees, the event will provide Spanish interpretation. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Yajaira.
Empowering Homes Webinar: Discover Peninsula Clean Energy’s Home Upgrade Program
Our community is embracing electric appliances for everyday needs such as heating your water and home—it's good for indoor air quality and the environment. Learn how electric appliances are becoming an easy and cost-effective option, too. Peninsula Clean Energy is here to be a resource in your constituents' energy decisions.
Join us for an informative webinar on Peninsula Clean Energy’s new Home Upgrade Program launching this spring, which will bring full service and no cost electrification to qualified homes. Hear how community partners have implemented new programs and its benefits to homeowners’ safety and health from Maya Paulo from Climate Resilient Communities.
Registration Now Open for the United for Youth Summit: Join Us in Cultivating Community Healing
Thur, February 13, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, In-Person
The second annual Partnerships in Education Summit, titled "United for Youth: Cultivating Cultural Wealth through Youth Behavioral Health and Healing," invites participants to engage in creating a thriving ecosystem for youth behavioral health and community healing. This conference will emphasize leveraging community cultural wealth, developing impactful partnerships, and incorporating indigenous healing practices. It aims to explore innovative strategies that support the well-being of youth in San Mateo County, with co-hosts including the San Mateo County Office of Education, the Coalition for Safe Schools and Communities, Thrive Alliance for Nonprofits, Stanford Haas Center for Public Service, and Sand Hill Foundation.
For those interested in sharing their insights and work at the conference, proposals can be submitted here with the deadline for submissions closing on January 18, 2025.
Additionally, attendees are encouraged to complete a pre-conference survey, which will assist in planning the event, gathering outreach information, supporting the upcoming RFP release for United for Youth funding, and creating a directory for districts and partners to foster collaborations and programming.
COAD Announcement: COAD Issue Area Committees Open for Participation
Thrive recently received a 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. 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?
Nonprofit Recruitment & Retention Learning Community
As part of the Thriving Nonprofit Workforce Initiative, 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.
Call for Racial Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Speakers
Thrive Alliance & SVCN are looking for experienced professionals to support the capacity building of the Racial Equity Diversity and Inclusion (REDI) Hub in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties' nonprofit sector.
Thrive & SVCN are inviting speakers -- panelists, presenters, trainers, and facilitators -- to submit proposals on topics including but not limited to:
Racial Justice
Race and Identity
Organizational Culture
Governance and Nonprofit Boards
REDI Metrics and Accountability
Support System
Healing and Wellness
We encourage submissions from speakers who represent a wide range of backgrounds and we welcome speakers from outside Silicon Valley.
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.
On December 3, 2024, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors called for a special election on March 4, 2025, where voters will consider a proposed amendment to the county charter regarding the authority to remove an elected Sheriff from office. If approved, the amendment would allow the Board to remove the Sheriff for cause until December 31, 2028, requiring a four-fifths vote, along with written notice and an opportunity for the Sheriff to respond. To help the community understand this measure, the League of Women Voters of North & Central San Mateo County is hosting a nonpartisan Pros & Cons presentation on February 6, 2025, from 6 to 7 p.m. via Zoom. This session will provide an impartial overview of the arguments for and against Measure A, drawing on various sources beyond just the Official Voter Information Guide, and will be recorded for broader access afterward.
Protecting School Communities: New Legislation to Safeguard Undocumented Students
A new bill, Assembly Bill 49/Senate Bill 48, has been proposed in the state Legislature aimed at enhancing the safety of undocumented students and their families. If passed, this legislation would prevent federal agents from detaining these individuals on school grounds without a warrant. Additionally, it would restrict school officials, daycare employees, and local educational agency staff from permitting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) access to school areas without a valid warrant. The Senate bill further ensures that law enforcement agencies cannot collaborate with or share information about students, their families, or teachers with immigration authorities. Stay informed about upcoming committee assignments and ways to show your support after January 16.
National Council of Nonprofits Post-election Webinar: Impact of the Elections on Charitable Nonprofits
On Tuesday, November 12, nonprofits from across the U.S. convened to examine the influence of the federal elections on their missions, communities, and the nonprofit sector as a whole. This webinar focused on the election outcomes, their implications for the upcoming lame-duck session of Congress, and what various nonprofits can anticipate and accomplish in the 119th Congress.
Comprehensive Immigrant Legal Resources and Support Services in San Mateo County
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.
TPS Update: On January 10, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended the designation of Temporary Protected Status for El Salvador (through 9/9/26), Sudan (through 10/19/26), Ukraine (through 10/19/26), and Venezuela (through 10/2/26). Please note: these extensions do not expand eligibility and only apply to those who already qualify based on their country of origin.
From the Immigrant Legal Resource Center: Please join the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) for Immigration Briefings 2025. The ILRC will host one-hour briefings every other week during the first six months of 2025 to provide legal service providers and advocates updates about changes to immigration policy and practice. Register here.
Know Your Rights: A California Train-the-Trainer Toolkit: this resource from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center is aimed at providing community organizations and partners with the tools to provide valuable know your rights (KYR) information. This toolkit will teach you how to do a KYR presentation, including everything from the logistics of organizing an event to the substantive topics you should cover.
Everyone Belongs Here: this is a new resource to help California health care providers, settings, and systems to provide care that is welcoming, inclusive, and safe for immigrants and refugees. Learn more and access the toolkit here.
Rapid Response Hotline: If immigration comes to your home, work, or neighborhood, or if there are ICE raids nearby, call the San Mateo County Rapid Response Hotline at 203-666-4472 (203-NO-MIGRA). Learn more and get printable materials at this link.
Upcoming USCIS Webinars (English) - see below and on attached flyer:
Citizenship Teacher Training: The USCIS Office of Citizenship will be holding a citizenship teacher training in downtown San Jose on February 5th. See attached flyer for more details, and register for the training here!
Family Preparedness Plan (English/Spanish): this resource from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center helps families prepare for immigration-related emergencies. The toolkit goes into detail about different childcare options available in case of an absent parent, where to find trusted immigration services in your community, and how to prepare to assert your constitutional rights in the presence of an immigration officer. Download a copy in English or Spanish on this page.
We Have Rights: these multilingual videosshow how community members can respond in a variety of scenarios involving immigration enforcement officials.
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.
Community Announcements
Collaborative Efforts to Address Policy Changes and Support Vulnerable Populations in San Mateo County
Civic leaders from San Mateo County met to discuss the anticipated impacts of state and federal policy changes on health care funding, immigration, and infrastructure, with a focus on supporting vulnerable populations. County Executive Mike Callagy highlighted the importance of listening to community concerns, noting that many families might hesitate to seek benefits due to fears about information sharing and potential service cuts. Discussions emphasized the need for collaboration among local governments and nonprofit organizations to provide safety-net services, underscoring the collective effort required to address these challenges effectively.
Stay Prepared: Essential Tips for Emergency Readiness in San Mateo County
The beginning of 2025 has been marked by a series of natural disasters, including a tsunami warning, a recent earthquake, and a coastal flood advisory. San Mateo County Board of Supervisors President David Canepa stressed the importance of being prepared for emergencies such as wildfires and earthquakes, noting that the county will prioritize funding for emergency preparedness. Residents are encouraged to take proactive measures, such as signing up for local emergency alerts through systems like SMC Alert and downloading the MyShake app, which provides timely earthquake warnings. To enhance their safety, individuals should understand the different types of evacuation alerts: Evacuation Warnings (for potential threats), Evacuation Orders (immediate threats), and Shelter in Place (stay indoors). It’s also vital to pack a Go Bag with essential items like identification, cash, and medicines for quick access during emergencies. For those interested, the San Mateo County Department of Emergency Management will host a free Wildfire Safety webinar on January 21. Residents can also explore local hazards using the MyHazards tool. Staying informed and prepared is crucial for ensuring the safety of families during unforeseen events.
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.
Peninsula Clean Energy: Learn About Electric Vehicles
Learn more about the advantages of electric vehicles (EVs) and why they're increasingly preferred by automobile owners as an affordable, convenient, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas vehicles. EVs offer substantial savings on fuel and maintenance costs throughout their lifespan, with potential immediate savings through available rebates and incentives. Explore resources like savings calculators, charging station maps, and buyer’s guides tailored to simplify your transition to EV ownership. Learn about the ease of charging your EV and locate convenient charging stations along your routes. Whether you're new to EVs or considering a switch, explore how these vehicles can enhance both your financial savings and environmental impact.
Strengthening Community Resilience: Bay Area UASI Tabletop Exercise
Tues, January 28, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, In-Person
DEM is hosting a Bay Area UASI tabletop exercise (TTX) at the Regional Operational Center in Redwood City. This all-day event aims to enhance community-based organizations' understanding of their roles during emergencies and how to effectively communicate with local governmental agencies to improve disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Lunch will be provided, and space is limited to the first 100 registrants, so it's recommended that organizations send one or two representatives.
San Mateo County Office of Education: Uplifting Youth Voice Summit
Sat, February 1, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm, In-Person
The Coalition for Safe Schools and Communities and the San Mateo County Behavioral Health Commission Youth Action Board are cohosting a Uplifing Youth Voice Summit on February 1, 2025. Youth, as well as educators, community-based organizations, basically anyone who works with youth are encouraged to attend this youth-led event to hear the experience of adolescents and transition-aged youth regarding mental health, needed services, and the gaps in the support system. It is a unique experience to hear their perspective on how best to reach this population in 2025.
Sanchez Art Center Presents Thomas Campbell, Shape Shifting and other Astral Lint Balls
Fri, January 17 - February 9, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm, In-Person
Sanchez Art Center in Pacifica will kick off its 2025 Exhibition Season with three concurrent shows, featuring a reception for attendees. The Main Gallery will showcase a survey of multi-media artist Thomas Campbell in the exhibition "Shape Shifting and other astral lint balls," curated by Susan Hillhouse Leask, who highlights Campbell's unique DIY expression linked to the San Francisco Mission School. Additionally, the West Gallery will feature a group show by the Art Guild of Pacifica titled "Ode to Joy," while the East Gallery will present the juried exhibition "Citizen Joy: Views of Democracy, Gratitude & Aspiration." Community events include a gallery walk and talk, a hands-on art activity for all ages, and a table talk exploring harmony and the Golden Rule. The exhibitions will conclude with a conversation with Thomas Campbell. The center is open Friday through Sunday from 1 to 5 pm and by appointment, located at 1220 Linda Mar Blvd, Pacifica, CA.
Housing Leadership Council of San Mateo County: Community Interpreter Training Program
Mon, February 24 - 28, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, In-person
The Community Interpreter Training Program is accepting registrations for its in-person course from February 24-28, 2025, at the Sobrato Palo Alto Center, led by Licensed Trainer Noemi Gonzalez-Rocha. This program aims to equip participants with the skills necessary for interpretation while promoting language justice and cultural humility. A nominal fee of $300 covers the textbook and workbook, with potential financial assistance available. To receive a certificate, attendees must complete at least 36 hours of the training, pass an exit exam, and are encouraged to take a language proficiency exam beforehand. An additional 8 hours of practical training in interpretation methods is also included. Registration is open until January 20, 2025.
Joint Venture Silicon Valley: 2025 State of the Valley
Fri, March 7, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm, In-person
The State of the Valley is a traditional town hall meeting organized by Joint Venture, bringing together a diverse group of participants, including citizens, thought leaders, journalists, students, elected representatives, and business leaders. The meeting fosters dialogue on regional challenges and opportunities, using the Silicon Valley Index—a respected publication since 1995—that provides critical data regarding the economy and community health, aiming to inform decision-making.
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