Richard Jeske to Receive Nancy Varner Angel Award at Time for Change Foundation’s 23rd Annual Gala

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – March 4, 2025 – Richard Jeske, a dedicated advocate for recovery and rehabilitation, will be honored with the prestigious Nancy Varner Angel Award at Time for Change Foundation’s 23rd Annual Awards Gala, “Unwavering: Igniting Change, Inspiring Hope.”

Jeske’s remarkable journey began in 1971 when he achieved sobriety after a profound moment of self-reflection. For over five decades since, he has dedicated his life to helping others find their path to recovery and purpose. His extensive work in the criminal justice system included coordinating a women’s prison program from 1991 to 1998 and working within parole offices and jails for 12 years to reduce recidivism rates until his retirement in 2012.

“Richard exemplifies what the Nancy Varner Angel Award represents—selfless dedication to lifting others up,” said Vanessa Perez, Executive Director, “His ability to connect with individuals who feel unlovable, just as he once did, has transformed countless lives.”

Colleagues praise Jeske’s unique approach of using unconditional love rather than confrontation to help individuals tap into their own intuitive thinking and discover inner peace. This methodology aligns perfectly with Time for Change Foundation’s mission of empowering individuals and families to overcome homelessness, domestic violence, and systemic barriers.

Jeske’s personal journey of overcoming addiction and building lasting relationships, including his marriage and the adoption of his son in 1972, provided the foundation for his lifelong commitment to helping others. His experience of loss—the passing of another son in 1979 due to a congenital heart condition—deepened his compassion and reinforced his commitment to seeing the inherent value in every person. These profound life experiences have informed his approach to helping others find their own path to healing.

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
Dynamic Duo Award: Charisse Bremond Weaver and George Weaver
Community Champion Award: Michelle Decker, CEO of the Inland Empire Community Foundation

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.

tfcf 2025 awards gala

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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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