Information provided by The San Benito Leadership Institute. Lea este artículo en español aquí.
The San Benito Leadership Institute (SBLI) has officially earned independent nonprofit status, a milestone made possible by the unwavering support of its community, partners, and the Community Foundation for San Benito County (CFFSBC). The achievement caps years of program investment and community trust and marks the next chapter in SBLI’s efforts to empower a dynamic network of local voices dedicated to driving positive change across the region.
SBLI was founded as a program incubated by CFFSBC to meet a clear need in San Benito County: a structured pathway for developing local leaders equipped to serve their community. Over the past four years, CFFSBC provided the infrastructure and support that allowed SBLI to take root, grow, and ultimately prove that the demand for homegrown leadership development was both real and lasting.
“I’ve been involved with the Leadership program since its inception and have had the privilege of watching its growth and evolution. I’ve served more than 20 years on the Community Foundation for San Benito County Board as past chair, and I have served on the SBLI Board for the past two years. From the beginning, I’ve been proud to support and help elevate this program as it has grown into what it is today. SBLI has become a strong and trusted leadership pipeline in our community. The program transforms community members into thoughtful, engaged, and informed leaders committed to serving others, creating a lasting cycle of leadership that continually strengthens San Benito County,” said Phil Fortino, Former Chair of the Community Foundation for San Benito County Board and former member of the SBLI Board.
While SBLI’s organizational structure is changing, its purpose is not. The program’s mission remains exactly what it has always been: to cultivate a diverse community of leaders who will serve, unite, and benefit San Benito County.
“The Community Foundation for San Benito County has been an incredible incubator for SBLI,” said Brenda Weatherly, Executive Director of San Benito Leadership Institute. “From the beginning, our vision was to bring people together and build a stronger, more connected county, and the community answered loudly. CFFSBC believed in that vision and gave SBLI the foundation it needed to grow. Now, SBLI carries that momentum forward as an independent nonprofit, and we are proud to continue our relationship with CFFSBC as a valued partner.”
“SBLI earning independent nonprofit status is a proud moment for our entire community. From the start, we saw the strength, talent, and commitment already present in San Benito County, and SBLI has transformed that promise into a lasting leadership pipeline. We’re grateful to have been part of its early development and look forward to continuing to support SBLI’s work as a partner and fellow champion for this county,” said Cassandra Kartashov, CEO of the Community Foundation for San Benito County.
How can I support SBLI? SBLI will continue to welcome tax-deductible donations, sponsorships, and community support as a nonprofit organization. Supporters can make contributions directly to SBLI through its website at www.sanbenitoleadership.org or by contacting the organization directly for giving opportunities.