Community In Focus

Community In Focus - Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. - Episode 19

This week on Community in Focus Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. to share stories about growing up in the Inland Empire, lessons in resilience and service, and the power of partnership among local government, nonprofits, and the community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about faith, family, and giving back.

Community In Focus - Michael Vargas, Mayor of Perris - Episode 18

In this episode of Community in Focus, CEO Tim Ney sits down with Perris Mayor Michael Vargas to talk about the city’s growth, vision for local development, commitment to public safety, and efforts to end childhood hunger. Together, they explore how faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and city leadership can work hand in hand to uplift the community and bring lasting change.

Community In Focus - Mayor of Corona Jim Steiner - Episode 17

In this episode of Community in Focus, CEO Tim Ney sits down with Mayor Jim Steiner of Corona to explore his journey from firefighter to public servant. Mayor Steiner shares stories of his upbringing, decades of service in the fire department, the influence of his family, and his deep commitment to supporting youth and families in the community.

Community In Focus - Mayor of Riverside Patricia Lock Dawson - Episode 16

In this inspiring episode, Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson. Born and raised in Riverside, Mayor Lock Dawson shares her journey from studying biology at UC Riverside to serving as a park ranger and ultimately stepping into public office. She reflects on the importance of education instilled by her family, her work in public policy, and the role of partnerships in tackling pressing issues like youth and veteran homelessness. Together, they discuss what makes Riverside unique, the city’s spirit of collaboration, and the importance of supporting vulnerable communities.

Community In Focus - District 1 County of Riverside Jose Medina - Episode 15

In this episode of Community in Focus, Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina to discuss his journey from Panama to California, his passion for education, and his service through the Peace Corps. They explore how family values, Catholic upbringing, and a love for teaching shaped his career in public service, and why he encourages young people to follow their passions and pursue lifelong learning.

Community In Focus - Greg Bradbard - Episode 14

In this episode, we sit down with Greg Bradbard, CEO of the IEHP Foundation. From his early days at UCI to a transformative college internship, Greg shares how his passion for helping others led him into the nonprofit world. He reflects on the qualities that make an effective nonprofit leader and highlights the importance of collaboration across organizations to better serve the Inland Empire.

Community In Focus - Matthew Kill - Episode 13

In this episode of Community in Focus we sit down with Matt Kill CEO of Hyperbolt to explore how technology and compassion can intersect for good. Matt shares how his company partnered with Catholic Charities to implement an AI powered phone line designed to improve our call answer rate and better serve those in need. We dive into the ethical responsibilities of using AI in the nonprofit space and Matt opens up about his personal journey from growing up in Australia to being inspired by his mother who served as Deputy Director General to ultimately using his skills to make a social impact.

Community In Focus - Father Jose - Episode 12

In this episode, we sit down with Father Jose, whose journey of faith began in the Philippines. Inspired by the church at a young age, he followed a calling to become a priest and served as a missionary in Timor, where he devoted years to spiritual service and community support. Eventually, Father Jose came to the United States to care for his sister and continued his mission of compassion and faith here in America. Tune in as he shares his remarkable story of dedication, family, and service across borders.

Community In Focus - James Alkhass - Episode 11

In this episode of Community in Focus we sit down with James Alkhass, a barber and dedicated parishioner at St. Matthew’s. Born in Kuwait, James reflects on his early years as an altar boy, his family’s immigration journey to Michigan, and the experiences that shaped him as they settled in California. He shares how his faith, family, and community have guided his path and how he now gives back through both his profession and his parish life.

Community In Focus - Mayor John Dutrey - Episode 10

In this episode of Community In Focus, Mayor John Dutrey of Montclair shares his personal journey of growing up in the city he now leads. From his early years in Montclair to his path into public service, Mayor Dutrey reflects on the experiences that shaped his commitment to community. He discusses his passion for serving others, the challenges and rewards of leadership, and his vision for Montclair’s future. This heartfelt conversation offers a glimpse into the life of a dedicated public servant who never forgot where he came from.