On April 18, the 13th annual Forging Hope Yawa’ Awards were held at the Yaamava’ Theater, honoring four exemplary nonprofits for their transformative work in the Inland Empire and Indian Country.
Academy for Grassroots Organization, Walking Shield, the California Indian Museum and Cultural Center and Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare were recognized for their dedication in serving communities in ways that fulfill the Tribe’s Giving Pillars: Inspiring Through Education, Empowering Lives, Reinforcing Healthy and Resilient Communities, and Preserving Cultural Traditions and Empowering Indian Country. These organizations embody the time-honored Serrano concept of Yawa’— “to act on one’s beliefs”—by making a significant impact to their communities.
Each recipient received an encased hand-crafted Serrano gourd rattle designed by San Manuel youth and presented by Tribal leadership. Also in attendance were representatives from more than 100 regional nonprofit groups that also serve the Inland Empire and Indian Country.
