Last Updated on October 27, 2005 by Paulette Brown-Hinds

San Bernardino

For four decades, Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County (CAPSBC), formerly Community Services Department has been helping people and changing lives.

“If it weren’t for the help I got from CAPSBC and God, I don’t know where I would be right now” said Roxanne who left an abusive relationship and came to Community Action Partnership in need of basic necessities.

“Roxanne is just o­ne of the over 800,000 low-income families and individuals, elderly, homeless and disadvantaged residents of San Bernardino County that we serve each year” said Patricia L. Nickols, CAPSBC Executive Director.  “We will continue to be responsive to their needs and commit our utmost support in helping them achieve their goals”.

To commemorate the 40 years of innovation, commitment and service to the low-income communities of San Bernardino, CAPSBC will hold a “Fund Raising Dinner” o­n November 10, 2005 at the San Bernardino Orange Show, 689 South “E” Street, San Bernardino, CA, beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Keynote speaker is Community Action Partnership National President Derrick L. Span and will talk about the crucial role of Community Action Agencies in eliminating poverty. 

Other guests include Fifth District Supervisor Josie Gonzales, San Bernardino Mayor Judith Valles, local officials, and representatives of community and faith-based organizations, business, education and media.

Highlights of this event include the presentation of the Venny Newman Award for outstanding accomplishments in the fight against poverty.  The award is given in honor of the CAPSBC’s former long-term Board member, Venny Newman.  CAPSBC will also honor Dorothy Grant, recipient of the 2005 Jayne Thomas Volunteer Award.

“This event will pay tribute to individuals and organizations that have supported us in our fight against poverty for many years.  Our board and staff have been working very hard to make this event successful and memorable.” said Michael J. Gallo, Chair, Community Action Board. 

First known as the Dependency Prevention Commission when the agency was created in 1965, was renamed Community Services Department (CSD) in 1975.  Over the years CSD has achieved local and national recognition for implementing creative, cost-effective programs to serve the low-income residents of San Bernardino County.  In 2003, CSD transitioned from a public entity to a private non-profit public benefit corporation and changed its name to Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County and is o­ne of the 1,100 Community Action Agencies nationwide dedicated to assisting low-income individuals and families to become stable and self-reliant.

For more information contact CAPSBC at 909-891-3863 or visit www.sbcounty/capsbc.gov