Community In Focus

In this episode of Community in Focus, host Tim Ney sits down with Darcy Nancy Piron, Director of College Corps at Riverside Community College, to explore the power of community service, education, and finding purpose in your work.

Darcy shares her journey from professional dance and the arts to higher education and community engagement, highlighting how mentorship, family support, and embracing new opportunities can shape a meaningful career. She also discusses College Corps, a statewide program connecting college students with nonprofit organizations while providing financial support, professional development, and hands-on service experience.

Together, Tim and Darcy discuss the importance of belonging, building meaningful connections, supporting young people, and helping Inland Empire residents discover new pathways to success.

Watch to learn how you can get involved, explore educational opportunities, and make a difference in your community.

In this episode of Community in Focus, Tim Ney sits down with Dan Flores of Mary’s Mercy Center for a wide-ranging conversation about nonprofit leadership, service, and the challenges facing communities across the Inland Empire.

Dan shares his journey from growing up in Colton and working in local government to leading Mary’s Mercy Center and its programs, including Mary’s Table, Mary’s Village, and Mary’s Haven. The conversation explores the importance of treating every person with dignity, the role of volunteers and donors, and what it takes to create meaningful pathways forward for individuals and families.

Tim and Dan also take a deeper look at homelessness and the need for stronger collaboration between nonprofits, government, faith communities, and other community partners. Together, they discuss why there is no single solution to homelessness and why effective service must address people as individuals while building connection, accountability, and community.

It’s an honest conversation about leadership, service, faith, and the shared responsibility to strengthen the Inland Empire.

In this episode of Community in Focus, Tim Ney sits down with Jess Tirado of Citizens Business Bank for a conversation about financial literacy, career growth, and community.

Jess shares his journey from growing up in Los Angeles to building a 40-plus-year career in banking and serving the Inland Empire through his work in community development. They discuss saving for retirement, managing credit and debt, learning from financial mistakes, finding your career path, and the importance of giving back.

A conversation filled with practical advice, personal stories, and lessons for anyone looking to build a stronger financial future.

In this episode of Community in Focus, CEO Tim Ney sits down with Jesse Ibarra, Chief Business Officer of Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services, to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding affordable and attainable housing in the Inland Empire. Jesse shares his inspiring journey from the real estate industry to nonprofit leadership, highlighting how stable housing, financial education, and community partnerships can transform lives. Together, they explore innovative approaches to homeownership, the importance of housing accessibility, and how organizations across the region are working together to build stronger, more vibrant communities.

In this powerful episode of Community in Focus, Tim Ney sits down with John Echevarria, Colton’s District 4 council member, police officer, coach, and devoted father, for a deeply personal conversation about service, resilience, and the life-changing impact of community support. John shares his journey growing up in the housing projects of San Bernardino, raised by a single mother whose unwavering belief in education shaped his future. From moments of childhood hardship and loss to a calling in law enforcement sparked by tragedy, his story is one of transformation and purpose. He reflects on how Catholic Charities San Bernardino & Riverside Counties once supported his own family during their most difficult times—and how that experience continues to fuel his commitment to give back. This episode explores the power of mentorship, the importance of local colleges in opening doors, the realities of frontline service, and what it truly means to lead with compassion. It’s an inspiring reminder that the investment we make in families and young people today can shape community leaders for generations to come.

This week on Community in Focus Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. to share stories about growing up in the Inland Empire, lessons in resilience and service, and the power of partnership among local government, nonprofits, and the community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about faith, family, and giving back.

In this episode of Community in Focus, CEO Tim Ney sits down with Perris Mayor Michael Vargas to talk about the city’s growth, vision for local development, commitment to public safety, and efforts to end childhood hunger. Together, they explore how faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and city leadership can work hand in hand to uplift the community and bring lasting change.

In this episode of Community in Focus, CEO Tim Ney sits down with Mayor Jim Steiner of Corona to explore his journey from firefighter to public servant. Mayor Steiner shares stories of his upbringing, decades of service in the fire department, the influence of his family, and his deep commitment to supporting youth and families in the community.

In this inspiring episode, Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson. Born and raised in Riverside, Mayor Lock Dawson shares her journey from studying biology at UC Riverside to serving as a park ranger and ultimately stepping into public office. She reflects on the importance of education instilled by her family, her work in public policy, and the role of partnerships in tackling pressing issues like youth and veteran homelessness. Together, they discuss what makes Riverside unique, the city’s spirit of collaboration, and the importance of supporting vulnerable communities.

In this episode of Community in Focus, Catholic Charities CEO Tim Ney sits down with Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina to discuss his journey from Panama to California, his passion for education, and his service through the Peace Corps. They explore how family values, Catholic upbringing, and a love for teaching shaped his career in public service, and why he encourages young people to follow their passions and pursue lifelong learning.