Funding Will Strengthen Health and Resilience for Inland Empire Residents
Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation has announced more than $13.5 million in grants to support transformative programs across the region and the nation. Inland Empire Waterkeeper is honored to be selected as a recipient of the 2025 San Manuel Cares grant cycle, receiving $25,000 to enhance its watershed education program, River KATS (Kids Activism Through Science), and promote health, safety, and resilience in the Inland Empire.
“We’re deeply grateful to Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation for their investment in community well-being,” said Johanna Ramos, Managing Director at Inland Empire Waterkeeper. “Their support empowers us to continue offering high-quality, hands-on watershed education at no cost to schools or families. By connecting youth with their local environment, we’re helping to cultivate the next generation of environmental stewards who will protect the Inland Empire’s natural resources.”
The funded program, River KATS, aligns with the San Manuel Cares “Reinforcing Healthy and Resilient Communities” giving pillar. This pillar reflects a commitment to strengthening well-being through partnerships that advance physical, mental, and emotional health across all ages. It supports healthcare access, safety initiatives, disaster relief, and environmental education to foster strong, supported, and prepared communities. River KATS connects students with the Santa Ana River Watershed through field trips, labs, and engaging in-class lessons, all while covering transportation, facility, and substitute teacher expenses.
“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,” said Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation. “We are proud to support organizations like Inland Empire Waterkeeper that promote health and well-being and share our dedication to lasting impact.”
Since the early 2000s, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation has awarded more than $425 million through the San Manuel Cares program, investing in critical causes across Serrano Ancestral Lands and Indian Country.