- Anthony Reyes
- (916) 319-2078
- Anthony.Reyes@asm.ca.gov
SACRAMENTO, CA —Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego) has named the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation as the Nonprofit of the Year for Assembly District 78.
“Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation exemplifies what can be accomplished when community and government come together to protect access to natural spaces for all,” said Assemblymember Ward. “Parks like Mission Trails play a vital role in addressing the climate crisis, safeguarding our region’s biodiversity, and providing environmental education that inspires the next generation of leaders.”
Now in its 10th year, the California Nonprofit of the Year initiative is a statewide program celebrating the essential role nonprofit organizations play in supporting and strengthening California communities. Each year, state legislators recognize a nonprofit from their district, culminating in a formal celebration at the State Capitol in May.
“We at the Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP) Foundation are honored to be selected by Assemblymember Ward as Nonprofit of the Year for the 78th Assembly District,” said Jennifer Morrissey, Executive Director of the MTRP Foundation. “Since 1988, our mission has been to preserve, protect, and enhance Mission Trails—one of the largest urban parks in the nation. With support from the San Diego River Conservancy, we’re continuing to expand the park and conserve open space for future generations to enjoy.”
Geoff Green, CEO of the California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits), sponsor of the initiative, emphasized the importance of the sector: “Nonprofits provide essential services, uplift our most vulnerable neighbors, and enrich the lives of all Californians. Whether it’s a health clinic, an art class, a community organizer, or an animal shelter—nonprofits are the backbone of vibrant communities.”
The California Nonprofit of the Year program is a joint effort by CalNonprofits and the State Senate and Assembly Select Committees on the Nonprofit Sector. CalNonprofits is the state’s leading policy voice for the nonprofit sector, advancing advocacy, education, and research across California.