Reimagining Educational Possibilities in the Inland Empire
The Education Equity Department at the Inland Empire Community Foundation stands at the intersection of youth wisdom, community power, and transformative philanthropy. We believe that those closest to educational inequity hold the keys to its transformation. Our work centers the lived experiences of young people in the Inland Empire, particularly those from communities historically pushed to the margins.
Our Vision
We envision an Inland Empire where every young person has access to affirming, liberatory educational experiences that honor their full humanity and nurture their dreams. Where schools and communities work in deep partnership. Where resources flow to community-driven solutions. This vision reflects our broader commitment to the Vital Conditions for Well-Being—recognizing that Lifelong Learning is essential to thriving communities. When young people have equitable access to high-quality learning at every stage of life, it opens pathways to meaningful work, health, civic participation, and belonging.
Our Approach
School-Community Partnerships
Supporting vital connections between schools and community organizations, particularly those led by community leaders who understand the cultural wealth our communities bring to educational spaces.
Youth Voice & Leadership Development
Investing in youth organizing, participatory research, and leadership opportunities that position young people as the architects of educational change.
Mental Health & Wellness Initiative
Addressing the urgent need for culturally responsive mental health support that recognizes the full complexity of young people’s lived experiences.
Identity-Affirming Education
Supporting curriculum, teacher development, and family engagement that celebrates the cultures, histories, and identities of our diverse communities.
Rapid Response & Innovation
Maintaining flexibility to support emerging needs and creative solutions that come directly from youth and community.
Community Power & Civic Engagement
Building capacity for democratic participation, public education, and collective advocacy to create systemic change in educational governance.
Join Our Movement
Whether you’re a potential funding partner, community organization, school district, or youth advocate, we invite you to join us in this vital work. Our young people have shared their dreams for education in the Inland Empire – now it’s up to all of us to make those dreams reality.
Contact our Education Equity Program Officer to learn more about our current initiatives, funding opportunities, or how to get involved.
Connect with Dr. Torie Weiston-Serdan
Our education work is grounded in the understanding that young people are not empty vessels to be filled, but brilliant fires already burning. Our task is to create the conditions where those fires can illuminate new pathways toward collective liberation.
Dr. Torie Weiston-Serdan, Education Equity Program Officer
Keep in Touch
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