Four nonprofit organizations were presented with the Yawa’ award at the 14th Annual Forging Hope Yawa’ Awards, held at Yaamava' Theater March 19. For the first time, the San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority also held the Yawa’ Awards at Palms Casino Resort on April 25 and awarded four nonprofit organizations in Nevada. All organizations were recognized for their dedication in serving communities in ways that fulfill the Tribe's Giving Pillars: Inspiring Our Future 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’ by making a significant impact in their communities. This year’s recipients are:
• California Indian Nations College
• Keres Children’s Learning Center
• National Indian Child Welfare Association
• The Salvation Army
• DISCOVERY Children’s Museum
• Green Our Planet
• The Just One Project
• Volunteers in Medicine of Southern California
The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA) is a governmental instrumentality of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.