NEWS

Policy Impact of Collaboration in the IE

Leaders from across the Inland Empire gathered on December 7, 2024, for the IECF Policy & Philanthropy Summit, an event dedicated to fostering collaboration, consensus, and actionable ideas to create a thriving region for all. Hosted by the Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF) at the Ontario Convention Center, the summit brought together philanthropists, policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates under the theme “All People and Places Thriving, No Exceptions.”

Michelle Decker, President and CEO of IECF, opened the event by underscoring the importance of collaboration in addressing the region’s most pressing challenges. “The Inland Empire has unique strengths and opportunities,” Decker said. “But to realize our potential, we must work together across sectors to ensure that everyone—regardless of where they live or their background—has the opportunity to thrive.”

Keynote Speakers Inspire Collective Action

The summit featured compelling keynote addresses, including one from Dr. Manuel Pastor, a distinguished professor at the University of Southern California and expert in equity and regional planning. Pastor highlighted the power of inclusive growth strategies and how aligning public policy and philanthropy can lead to long-term regional resilience.

“The Inland Empire has been shaped by systemic challenges, but it also has incredible resources,” Pastor noted. “The key is finding ways to leverage those resources to benefit everyone, particularly those who have historically been left behind.”

Panels on Policy and Philanthropy

The summit’s breakout sessions provided attendees with opportunities to explore solutions for housing affordability, workforce development, and equitable economic growth. A notable panel on housing brought together regional leaders, including Tommy Edwards, director of affordable housing initiatives at a leading nonprofit, who emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to address the Inland Empire’s housing crisis.

A session on workforce innovation, moderated by Michelle Decker, highlighted the critical role of local education systems and nonprofits in preparing residents for the region’s evolving economy. Panelists discussed strategies for ensuring equitable access to high-quality jobs, particularly for marginalized communities.

Consensus and Collaboration at the Core

Throughout the day, speakers and attendees stressed the importance of building bridges across sectors. “Policy and philanthropy can’t work in silos,” said Angela Garcia, executive director of a regional nonprofit. “Events like this create the space for real dialogue and help align resources with community priorities.”

The summit concluded with a call to action for attendees to take the ideas shared during the event back to their organizations and communities. “This is just the beginning,” Decker said. “Together, we can create an Inland Empire where all people and places thrive, no exceptions.”

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