In a powerful show of community support, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation has awarded more than $13.5 million in grants to organizations working to uplift and transform lives.
Among the recipients is Playworks Southern California, which received a $60,000 grant to expand its Empowering Safe and Healthy Play in Riverside and San Bernardino Schools—a vital initiative focused on strengthening health, safety and resilience for Riverside and San Bernardino Counties residents.
A Grant That Grows Community Strength
The funding comes through the 2025 San Manuel Cares grant cycle and is aligned with the “Reinforcing Healthy and Resilient Communities” giving pillar. This pillar supports programs that promote physical, mental and emotional well-being across all ages, from healthcare access and safety initiatives to disaster relief and environmental education.
For Playworks, the grant means more than just financial support—it’s a chance to deepen its impact.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation for believing in our mission,” said Celeste Soto, Executive Director, Playworks Southern California. “This grant allows us to empower safe and healthy play in Riverside and San Bernardino Schools, helping build a stronger, more resilient community.”
Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, shared: “For over two decades, the call of Yawa’ — a Serrano value meaning ‘to act on one’s beliefs’ — has guided our giving programs and community efforts. We are proud to support organizations like Playworks Southern California that promote health and wellbeing and share our dedication to lasting impact.”
What’s Next for Empowering Safe and Healthy Play in Riverside and San Bernardino Schools
With the new funding, Playworks Southern California will continue its systemic approach to improving safe and healthy play by working with six school partners across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, impacting approximately 3,500 students. We will deliver professional development services to both new and existing school communities with a high need for a positive recess and play culture.
The goal: Scale Playworks’ impact by partnering with districts, expanding community and digital programs, and cultivating lasting, systemwide cultures of play so every child can thrive.
Investing in the Next Seven Generations
Since the early 2000s, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation has awarded more than $425 million through the San Manuel Cares program—an extraordinary investment in the future of Serrano Ancestral Lands and Indian Country.
With this latest grant, Playworks Southern California is ready to take our mission to the next level—empowering learners and inspiring futures.
To learn more about the Empowering Safe and Healthy Play in Riverside and San Bernardino Schools, visit www.playworks.org/southern-california/.
