RIVERSIDE, Calif. — The Game Changers Leadership Institute (GCLI), a nonprofit organization founded in the Inland Empire, is helping local youth harness their potential to create positive change in their communities through structured education and empowerment programs.
Grounded in the belief that “youth are society’s most valuable resource,” GCLI operates innovative programs designed to build knowledge, skills, and confidence among participants.
One of its hallmark initiatives is “Chat n’ Chill,” a youth-led online dialogue held every third Wednesday of the month. The session provides a safe space for open conversations about topics such as mental health, identity, relationships, culture, and social justice. Another key program, “Field Trips That Inspire Leadership,” takes participants to art museums, historical sites, and community centers, where they learn teamwork, critical thinking, and leadership through hands-on experiences.
Currently, GCLI’s 2024–25 cohort serves youth aged 16–24 living in San Bernardino and Riverside counties, with plans to expand to other major California cities in 2025–26.
“Like many nonprofit organizations, we’re facing financial challenges,” said Lanae Norwood, GCLI’s founder and executive director. “But we’re exploring innovative approaches — from resource-sharing to collaboration — to keep supporting the young people who are driving change in our communities.”
Another Inland Empire–based nonprofit, Curls, Coils & Crowns (CCC) focuses on improving self-esteem, identity, and emotional well-being for Black girls through school- and community-based programs.
CCC partners with schools in the Riverside, San Bernardino, and Rialto Unified School Districts to offer after-school and weekend leadership programs. The response has been overwhelmingly positive — 92% of participants reported a stronger sense of identity, and 70% said their classroom engagement improved.
One of its standout initiatives, the “Survival Pack” program, provides resources and practical skills for students who miss school due to hair or styling concerns, helping improve attendance and self-confidence.
“Our mission is to help Black girls see beauty in themselves and take pride in their culture,” said Danielle Townshend, CCC’s founder and executive director. “We focus on building confidence, strengthening identity, and promoting mental wellness.”
Townshend added that CCC also works to address systemic inequities that lead to higher rates of suspension, discipline, and arrest among Black girls. “When these policies change, the benefits extend beyond Black girls — they help all students of color,” she said.
Like many small nonprofits, CCC faces challenges in expanding its funding and network. “To reach more girls, we need stronger partnerships with local organizations,” Townshend noted.
Building Collaboration
Both GCLI and CCC participated in the California Connects convening held October 23 in Riverside, an event hosted by the California Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications (OCPSC) to strengthen collaboration among local nonprofits, youth, and service organizations.
OCPSC, part of the Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement, co-hosted the statewide series for the first time alongside California Volunteers and the Youth Empowerment Commission. The events aim to promote resource-sharing and partnership across community-based organizations.
The Riverside convening introduced the California Community Resource Guide, a comprehensive listing of state services and support programs, and provided practical guidance on how to find and apply for state grants.
“It was a meaningful opportunity to connect with other organizations doing great work in the region,” said Norwood. “Direct engagement with the state gave us access to new resources, information, and collaboration opportunities.”
According to OCPSC, more than 120 organizations participated in the Riverside event. Among them, 54% serve immigrants and refugees, 59% work in education, and 52% provide child and family services. Collectively, the organizations offer programs in 51 different languages, and 75% serve youth between the ages of 6 and 18.
Townsend said she attended because she wanted to see how the state was advancing new initiatives in youth empowerment and strategic communication.
“It was more than just networking — it was a chance to explore real collaboration,” she said. “Access to state resources is important, but building partnerships that amplify our collective impact matters even more.”
California’s Message: ‘We Are Here With You’
Aubrey Fong, acting executive director of OCPSC, emphasized the state’s commitment to supporting communities during uncertain times.
“Resources are limited, and communities are facing challenges,” Fong said. “We wanted to make clear that the State of California stands with you.”
She added, “Every community deserves to be seen, heard, and connected to the resources it needs. Working together with local organizations is essential to that mission.”
The California Connects tour began October 8 in San Francisco, with subsequent stops in Los Angeles (Oct. 15), Anaheim (Oct. 16), Sacramento (Oct. 21), Riverside (Oct. 23), and Oxnard (Oct. 29). The final convenings are scheduled for San Diego on November 5 and Fresno on November 18.
