Michelle Decker Honored as Community Champion for Transformative Leadership in the Inland Empire
San Bernardino, CA (March 12, 2025) – Time for Change Foundation is proud to announce that Michelle Decker, CEO of the Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF), will be honored with the Community Champion Award at the 23rd Annual Awards Gala: Unwavering – Igniting Change, Inspiring Hope. A visionary leader and tireless advocate for equity, Michelle has dedicated her career to fostering community-driven solutions that create lasting impact across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
With over 30 years of leadership in community and economic development, Michelle has shaped the Inland Empire’s philanthropic landscape, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most. Under her leadership, IECF has mobilized critical funding for climate resilience, housing, health, inclusive economic development, and educational equity—transforming lives and neighborhoods in the process.
“Michelle’s unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more equitable Inland Empire is nothing short of inspiring,” said Vanessa Perez, Time for Change Foundation’s Executive Director. “Her leadership is a catalyst for change, proving that philanthropy, when done right, can truly uplift entire communities.”
As the driving force behind IECF’s success, Michelle has championed initiatives such as the IE Black Equity Initiative Fund and the CIELO Fund, the region’s first Latino-focused philanthropic fund. She has also played a pivotal role in securing funding for the California Creative Corps and Regional Forest and Fire Capacity programs, ensuring that the region thrives economically, socially, and environmentally.
Beyond her role at IECF, Michelle’s passion for participatory development has been a defining force in her career, from leading community revitalization efforts in Baltimore to serving as CEO of Rural Action in Appalachian, Ohio. Her ability to bridge state, private, and grassroots efforts makes her a true force for change.
Other Award Honorees Include:
Philanthropist of the Year: Taraji P. Henson, Academy Award-nominated actress, producer, and mental health advocate
Humanitarian Award: Jon Pardi, Country music star and founder of the Starlight Fund
Unsung Hero Award: Ginger Ontiveros, President and CEO of Tomorrow’s Talent
Women’s Global Icon Award: Academy Award®-Nominated Producer Chiara Tilesi
Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award: Lifting as We Climb, U.S. Air Force unit at March Air Reserve
Nancy Varner Angel Award: Richard Jeske
Dynamic Duo Award: Charisse Bremond Weaver and George Weaver
The 23rd Annual Awards Gala celebrates the resilience and achievements of those overcoming homelessness, domestic violence, and systemic barriers. The event honors leaders, advocates, and community partners who champion change and empower marginalized individuals.
The gala will feature client testimonials highlighting TFCF’s transformative impact, an awards ceremony, gourmet dining, and fundraising opportunities to support the foundation’s expanding programs. Social hour begins at 6:00 PM with the formal program at 7:00 PM.
Individual tickets, table sponsorships, and advertising opportunities in the souvenir program are available now at the Gala registration page.
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About Time for Change Foundation:
Time for Change Foundation empowers communities toward economic prosperity and holistic well-being through innovative housing and economic development initiatives. Since 2002, TFCF has helped over 4,800 individuals achieve self-sufficiency and reunited 325 children from foster care with their mothers. The foundation’s programs include emergency shelter, permanent supportive housing, affordable housing development, and the Black and Brown Opportunities for Profit (BBOP) Center, which provides resources for women entrepreneurs to build, grow, and scale profitable businesses.
For more information, visit www.TimeForChangeFoundation.org.
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