The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians welcomed the return of the 12th Annual Forging Hope Yawa’ Awards on May 13, 2022, at Yaamava’ Theater at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino when they recognized four nonprofits for their dedication in serving communities in ways that fulfill the Tribe’s Giving Pillars.
The nonprofits were selected by the Tribe for their work in education, healthcare, essential services, and empowering Indigenous communities. The recipients were initially selected in 2020, however due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Forging Hope Yawa’ Awards were postponed for two consecutive years.
The recipients were:
- Victor Valley College Foundation (Victorville, CA) for comprehensive firefighter training, certifications, and degree programs.
- Assistance League of San Bernardino (San Bernardino, CA) for connecting children in need with essential dental care and oral health resources.
- Time for Change Foundation (San Bernardino, CA) for providing housing and employment opportunities for low-income individuals.
- Cheyenne River Youth Project (Eagle Butte, SD) for bringing innovative programming, including internship opportunities and arts education, to the Lakota community.
“We are proud to have partners who answer the call of Yawa’ by meeting the basic needs of at-risk groups, helping students onto the path of education, supporting Indigenous communities, and addressing health care disparities in our region.” Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena said during the ceremony.
The recipients were bestowed the Yawa’ award, an encased Serrano gourd rattle that was created by San Manuel youth. Back during the Tribe’s early history, the Serrano people used the gourd rattle as a percussive instrument in social traditions.
Read more of the 12th Annual Forging Hope Yawa’ Awards
