Black Voices of the Valley exemplifies the spirit of the U.S. 250th Anniversary CFB Award through its commitment to ethical leadership, community service, and civic responsibility. Operating with integrity, accountability, and compassion, the organization empowers underserved children, families, veterans, and seniors through year-round initiatives including youth mentorship, scholarships, educational enrichment, entrepreneurship, cultural awareness, holiday assistance, and community partnership.

​First and foremost, I would like to thank this organization for the opportunity to be considered. I will be honest, I'm not one for polished statistics and self-promotion. Everything I do for my family and my community comes straight from the heart. Before establishing Let Raven Shine, in honor of my daughter who passed in 2017, I had already dedicated my life to serving individuals and families in our community, providing vital resources, mentorship, and consistent volunteering in our communities.

Microenterprise Collaborative of Inland So CA is a strong nominee for the 250th U.S. Anniversary CFB Award because its work reflects ethical leadership, social responsibility, and community-focused values. By expanding fair access to capital and financial education for microbusiness owners who face barriers, such as low- and moderate-income residents, BIPOC entrepreneurs, immigrants, women, and veterans, they help more local businesses become viable, create jobs, and strengthen communities.

The Rose of Sharon 7 is a deserving nominee for its commitment to ethical leadership and meaningful community impact. Led by Founder and CEO Dr. Sharon Jackson, the organization empowers women recovering from substance use disorders to rebuild their lives, restore family relationships, and become self-sufficient. Through compassionate service, advocacy, and strong community partnerships, The Rose of Sharon 7 strengthens families, promotes civic responsibility and creates lasting positive change.

EOS Worldwide deserves your vote because it is transforming businesses by developing ethical, accountable, and purpose-driven leaders. With more than 850 EOS Implementers serving organizations around the world, EOS is helping entrepreneurs and leadership teams become the very best they can be. Through its commitment to servant leadership, integrity, and building healthy organizations, EOS creates lasting positive impacts on businesses, employees, families, communities, and the economy.

Marie Niles deserves your vote because she has transformed profound loss into purpose. As a Gold Star Mother, she endured the heartbreaking death of her son, SSgt. Kylle Jacob White. After later receiving an HIV diagnosis, she chose courage over silence and became a passionate advocate, educator, and public speaker. Marie uses her lived experience to challenge stigma, encourage testing and prevention, and inspire others to rise above adversity with strength, dignity, and hope.

It is my honor to nominate Monica Robles for the U.S. 250th Anniversary CFB Award. Throughout her career, Monica has exemplified the values that have defined our nation for nearly 250 years: faith, perseverance, ethical leadership, service to others, and an unwavering belief in the promise of opportunity. As the Founder and CEO of Asociacion de Emprendedor@s, Monica has dedicated her life to empowering Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs who have historically faced significant barriers to economic opportunities.

Entrepreneurial Growth & Scalability: Under Jackie's leadership, Africana Star expanded its professional styling team from two master stylists to eight, offering specialized hair coloring, braiding, and beauty services to the local community. Community & Economic Empowerment: Beyond operating her business, Jackie is dedicated to building wealth and opportunities within underserved communities, serving as a co-founder of the non-profit Minority Wealth Gap (founded in 2022)

Shaquan Young believes every child deserves to be loved and seen. As Founder, CEO, and Artistic Director of Uplifting Arts Academy, she has built a performing arts community that creates pathways to confidence, mentorship, leadership, workforce readiness, and upward mobility for children and families throughout the Inland Empire and High Desert. Her vision is to create stronger, brighter futures for the next generation.