EMPOWERING FAM
ILIES • STREN
G
THENING COMMUNITIES • EMPOWERING FAM
ILIES • STREN
G
THENING COMMUNITIES •
2023–2024
ANNUAL REPORT
LETTER FROM THE CEO
To our community of partners, friends, and supporters,
Fiscal year 2023–2024 was a year of
impact and evolution—for Reading and
Beyond and the families we serve.
When I stepped into the role of CEO in September
2022, I did so with deep respect for the organization’s history and an even deeper commitment to its future. This Annual Report reflects my second year in the role, and what I’ve witnessed only reaffirmed what I already knew: our families are resourceful, resilient, and ready to move forward—when given the chance.
That belief shaped everything we did in 2023–2024. Across every life stage—from pregnancy and early childhood to
job readiness and career growth—our team showed up
with care, consistency, and culturally rooted support.
Ahead, you’ll read about a parent who earned her nursing credential while raising two children, and a teen whose leadership transformed his neighborhood—and his self-image. You’ll also see the data behind our impact and the model that drives it: two- generational, empowerment-based, and grounded in the real lives of families across Fresno, Kings, and Madera Counties.
In 2024, we also celebrated our 25th anniversary—a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and to look ahead with purpose. The gathering reminded us of our roots and our responsibility: to evolve with our community, to listen closely, and to keep showing up where we’re needed most.
As we look to the future, we do so with clarity and resolve. In the midst of shifting safety nets and evolving funding landscapes, our work remains steady — rooted in care, strengthened by collaboration, and guided by a long view of what families truly need to thrive.
Thank you for standing with us—for your belief in our
mission, your partnership in our work, and your trust in our team. Together, we are building something that lasts—and preparing the next generation for lasting success.
With gratitude,
Sandra R. Flores
Chief Executive Officer
Reading and Beyond
OUR MISSION:
To empower
children
and families
to achieve
productive,
self-reliant lives.
INSIDE
1 BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
2 TIMELINE: 2023–
2024 MILESTONES
2 BY THE NUMBERS:
PROGRAM IMPACT
SNAPSHOT
4 OUR APPROACH
6 SCHOOL READINESS
8 SCHOOL SUCCESS
10 FAMILY SUCCESS
12 HEALTH &
WELLNESS
14 FINANCIALS
16 INVEST IN WHAT
MATTERS MOST
OFFICERSMEMBERS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Fausto Hinojosa, CPA
Managing Partner
Price, Paige & Company
CHAIRPERSON
Anita Hernandez, M.S., PPS
Manager II
Dual Enrollment
Parent University
Fresno Unified School District
Francine Farber, EdD
Co-President
League of Women Voters
Robert Pimentel, EdD
Chancellor
West Hills Community
College District
Antonio Avalos, Ph.D.
President
Valley Economics Associates
Economics Professor
Fresno State
Flavia Takahashi-Flores
Business Owner
Sales Representative
Jodie M. Rolih, CPA
Partner
Sensiba LLP
Lynne Pietz, J.D.
Attorney & Nonprofit
Consultant (Retired)
Manuel Aguirre,
MBA, MAOM
Public Health (Retired)
William Winchester
Chief Operations Officer
Berg Mill Supply, USA
Robert (Bob) Gunning
Financial Advisor
Capital Financial
& Insurance
TREASURER
Randy Dhindsa
Senior Vice President
Lending and Credit
SECRETARY
Katie Dill, RN
Wellness and Health Coach
Heart Matters
VICE CHAIRPERSON
OFFICERSMEMBERS
1 EARLY 2023
Launch of the Youth and
Family Navigator Program
Three Youth and Family Navigators
(YFNs) were hired to deliver
individualized case management,
mentorship, and life-skills
workshops for male-identifying
youth ages 14–18. Topics included
job readiness, community
leadership, post-secondary
planning, and financial literacy.
“ They showed me how to
be professional—how to
greet someone properly
and use the right words
in different situations.”
— Anthony, participant
JULY 14, 2023
1st Annual Open House
262 community members
attended the inaugural
open house at Mosqueda
Community Center. The event
featured cultural performances,
program showcases, and health
screenings in partnership with
UCSF. Attendees came from
19 ZIP codes and included
many first-time visitors.
School Success
• 30 K–6 grade students participated
in the After School Program;
20 completed the year
• 110 students attended the Science
Squad Summer Camp; 101 completed
Youth & Family Strong
• 42 youth served in total
• 26 completed the Noble Youth curriculum
• 12 completed the full-year YFS program
• 4 graduates finished high school;
3 secured employment
• 77% of participants were never
suspended or expelled
Family Success
California Bridge Academies
• 669 families served across
all CBA programs
• 106 families received Prosperity Coaching
• 418 families engaged in CalFresh
Employment & Training
• 86 families enrolled in Upward Mobility
Pathways; 38 gained employment
• 46 families re-enrolled in
education through the James
Irvine Upskilling program
• 13 immigrant families served through
Common Spirit; 7 entered education
BY THE NUMBERS: PROGRAM IMPACT SNAPSHOT
TIMELINE: 2023–2024 MILESTONES
2 AUGUST 2023
Launch of Community
Wide Survey 2.0
Reading and Beyond
initiated its second
community-wide
survey to better
understand local needs,
inform programming,
and strengthen
neighborhood ties. 594
surveys were collected
between August 2023
and May 2024.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
“Giving Thanks”
Block Party
292 attendees
participated in a festive
day of gratitude and
connection. UCSF
administered 40
vaccines, and RaB
distributed 314 books
and 182 COVID-19 test
kits. Raffle donations
included turkeys and gift
cards from local partners.
MARCH 2024
25th Anniversary Gala
Reading and Beyond
celebrated 25 years of
service with a community
gala at Roger Rocka’s
Dinner Theater in Fresno.
The event honored the
organization’s legacy
and raised funds to
support continued work
in education, health,
and economic mobility.
MAY 31, 2024
2nd Annual
Open House
257 attendees,
including 158 adults
and 99 children,
joined this community
celebration at Mosqueda
Community Center.
UCSF provided health
services, and over half
of the attendees were
new to RaB programs.
Health & Wellness
• Over 1,000 wellness
touchpoints recorded
through Wellness
Wednesdays, Family Health
Days, and Community
Health Worker outreach.
Topics included nutrition,
chronic illness, reproductive
health, mental health,
and access to care
• 1,401 participants
attended Wellness
Wednesday workshops
• 211 clients served via
the Health Disparities
Intervention Program
• 10,441 health
materials distributed
• 827 clients supported
through Family
Advocacy Services
• 18 expectant mothers
participated in GLOW!
Group Prenatal Care;
14 had healthy births
• 134 individuals
vaccinated through the
COVID-19 Equity Project
• 1,024 COVID-19
tests distributed
3 EDUCATION
PHYSICAL & MENTAL
HEALTH
FAMILY
CORE:
CHILD
OUR APPROACH
Two Generations.
One Path Forward.
Reading and Beyond began with a simple,
urgent question: What would it take for
every child—regardless of background—
to have a real chance to succeed?
Supporting the Whole Family,
Not Just the Student
Academic support is essential, but
progress means more than grades.
Behind each child is a family navigating
barriers tied to employment, health,
trauma, and access to opportunity. To
truly support the next generation, families
need to move forward together.
A Comprehensive,
Two-Generational Model
We use a two-generational model that strengthens
both children and the adults in their lives. Our programs meet families where they are—offering early learning, after- school enrichment, youth leadership, job training, health and wellness, mental health care, and family advocacy. Each piece builds toward stability, healing, and long-term success.
Rooted in Trust and Community Partnership
Our work is grounded in relationships. We listen
closely, walk alongside families, and build deep trust
across neighborhoods and systems. By partnering
with schools, community centers, government,
and other local allies, we offer coordinated,
accessible support to children and families.
Three Domains, One Child-Centered Framework
To guide this work—always keeping the child at the
core—we organize our services into three domains:
family, health and wellness, and education. Each domain contains one or more pathways: targeted routes of
support that reflect real-life needs and goals. Within
each pathway are specific programs designed to meet
children and families where they are and move with them as they grow, heal, and thrive. Children and families may engage with multiple pathways at once; that layered,
flexible design is what makes the model work.
Tracking Progress, Celebrating Growth
We care deeply about outcomes because families
deserve to see real progress. Our team uses data
to guide our programs, track results, and adapt
to meet evolving needs. Every milestone—from a
child’s first library card to a parent’s professional
certification—marks a step toward greater
confidence, resilience, and shared growth.
A Legacy of Impact and Commitment
For over 25 years, we have strengthened
families, enhanced children’s learning, and built
connected communities through opportunity
and collaboration. Our commitment to serve our
community continues to guide every program we
offer and every partnership we establish. We are
dedicated to helping families achieve meaningful
progress: lasting stability, economic mobility,
and brighter futures for the next generation.
DOMAINS
4 Framework:
Domains, Pathways,
and Programs
At the center of our model is
the child—the reason every
program, partnership, and
decision exists. Surrounding
each child are three domains
of support: family, physical &
mental health, and education.
Within each domain is one
or more pathway, and within
each pathway are targeted
programs that evolve with
each family’s needs.
• Early Childhood
Education Programming
• Parent Engagement
• After School Program
• STEAM Activities
• Youth and Family Strong
FAMILY
SUCCESS
Provides
career navigation,
postsecondary, and job
readiness support for
long-term economic
mobility.
HEALTH &
WELLNESS
Embeds physical,
emotional, and mental
health support across
all life stages
SCHOOL
READINESS
Supports young
children, ages 3–5, and
their caregivers through
early learning and
family engagement
SCHOOL
SUCCESS
Nurtures K-12
youth, ages 6–18,
through academic
support, leadership
development, and
enrichment
PATHWAYS PROGRAMS
• California Bridge Academies
• Prosperity Coaching
• Upward Mobility Pathways
• Common Spirit Partnership
• James Irvine Upskilling
• Care Management System
• Health Disparities Program
• GLOW! Group Prenatal Care
• Family Advocacy Services
• Wellness Wednesday
• Family Health Days
5 SCHOOL READINESS
Where Futures Begin
At the earliest stage of childhood, our work is focused on preparing children for lifelong learning by supporting both early cognitive development and family engagement.
We offer enriching, accessible environments that
ignite curiosity and readiness from the start.
This work is delivered through the School Readiness
Pathway, part of Reading and Beyond’s Education Domain.
The pathway focuses on early childhood development and
caregiver engagement to build a foundation for lifelong success.
PROGRAMS
• Early Childhood Education
Programming
• Parent Engagement
HIGHLIGHT
Reading and Beyond’s
preschool and early learning programs began in just
two classrooms in 2012. Today, they serve nearly
10 0 families annually.
The School Readiness Pathway
focuses on kindergarten readiness, early literacy,
and building foundational skills that support
long-term learning and success.
6 Early Learning. Lifelong Impact.
Every child deserves a strong start. But too
often, children from under-resourced families
enter school already behind—through no fault
of their own. Reading and Beyond’s School
Readiness Pathway helps level that playing field.
One grandparent shared the story of her
grandson, who began preschool at age
two and a half with delayed speech, limited
socialization, and difficulty listening. “We
had significant concerns about his behavior,”
she explained. “But knowing his sister had
graduated from Reading and Beyond, we trusted
the care and education he would receive.”
Though his start was challenging, the school’s
welcoming environment and positive,
structured curriculum made all the difference.
His teachers fostered self-control, respect,
and communication—skills that will serve him
for years to come. “We’ve seen remarkable
improvements in his speech,” his grandmother
noted, “thanks to the dedicated and caring
teachers at Reading and Beyond.”
That combination of nurturing care and
professional excellence is what sets our early
learning work apart. We prepare children not
just to start school, but to thrive in it. And we
walk alongside families every step of the way.
It is clear that school readiness is not just
a milestone; it is a critical foundation for
a child’s lifelong learning and success.
7 SCHOOL SUCCESS
Guiding Youth Toward What’s Next
During the school years, students need more than academic skills—they need encouragement, mentorship, and real-world preparation. Our programs nurture leadership, strengthen identity, and create a bridge between school and opportunity.
This work is delivered through the School Success
Pathway, part of Reading and Beyond’s Education
Domain. It provides academic support, mentorship,
and enrichment for students in grades K–12, helping
them stay engaged and plan for what comes next.
PROGRAMS
• After School Program
• STEAM Activities
• Youth and Family Strong
Highlight
The School Success Pathway
focuses on academic enrichment, literacy
support, and leadership development.
Students gain practical tools and mentorship
that lead to stronger engagement, improved
graduation outcomes, and greater job readiness.
8 More Than Grades: Growth, Grit, and Goals
The path through adolescence is never
simple—especially for young people
navigating generational poverty, trauma,
or systemic barriers. Reading and Beyond’s
School Success Pathway offers more than
homework help; it creates space for youth to
explore their potential, develop leadership,
and take their next step with confidence.
In our After School Program, students receive
support across three key components:
homework assistance, literacy intervention,
and enrichment engagement. Together, these
elements strengthen academic skills and
expand learning beyond the school day.
One parent shared the impact of the program
on her son, who had struggled with speech
and communication. “I was looking for a
program that would help him improve his
language,” she said. “Since he started, he
talks more—in both English and Spanish—
and he’s become more independent.”
Gerardo came to us with questions about
his future. Through Youth and Family Strong,
he found a team who listened, encouraged,
and helped him prepare for the workforce.
“They always helped me with what I
needed… things I had no idea about,” he
said. “Thanks to their help, I got a job. Not
just one—I had to choose between three.”
For Anthony, the shift was just as profound. “I
was shy and quiet,” he shared. “Now I’m not
afraid to speak. I even want to help others.” In
a peer-led circle, he found not only his voice,
but a purpose—and the self-assurance to lead.
Behind stories like theirs is a team of
professionals trained to support the whole
person: emotionally, academically, and
socially. What students need most at this life
stage is a sense of direction and someone
who believes in them. That’s what our team
brings—every day, and with every student.
9 FAMILY SUCCESS
Helping Families Move Forward—Together
Families are the engine of long-term change. We walk with adults as they pursue their goals, providing the structure, tools, and encouragement they need to gain stability,
build careers, and shape generational progress.
This work is delivered through the Family Success
Pathway, part of Reading and Beyond’s Family
Domain. It supports the significant adult in the child’s life through career navigation, education access,
postsecondary support, and case management to
promote long-term family stability and upward mobility.
PROGRAMS
• California Bridge Academies
• Prosperity Coaching
• Upward Mobility Pathways
• Common Spirit Partnership
• James Irvine Upskilling
HIGHLIGHT
627 families
are currently enrolled in
California Bridge Academies,
a cornerstone program in the
Family Success Pathway.
These families receive comprehensive career support,
personalized guidance for navigating postsecondary
education options, and tailored case management that
promotes long-term stability and economic mobility.
10 Courage, Coaching, and the Power of a Plan
Behind every determined parent is a story of
resilience. Reading and Beyond’s Family Success
Pathway supports adults who are rebuilding,
reimagining, and reaching for something
more—for themselves and for their families.
Heidi had always wanted to be a nurse.
But the daily demands of parenting and
bills made it hard to imagine going back to
school. “It was hard—school, kids, bills,” she
said. “But they kept showing up. I didn’t feel
alone.” With the support of a Career and
Family Navigator, she earned her nursing
degree and secured a job in healthcare.
Droua’s journey followed a similar path. A
young mother with big goals, she needed
someone who could help her balance parenting
and school. “They didn’t tell me what to
do,” she said. “They asked what I needed—
and stayed with me until I got there.”
Angelique, too, transformed her future with
support from the California Bridge Academies.
“I didn’t think I could do it,” she shared.
“But they helped me believe in myself. And
now my daughter sees what’s possible.”
Diana and Nina—both graduates of healthcare
training programs—spoke about the power of
someone walking with them through every step:
finding classes, buying textbooks, preparing for
interviews. Diana, now a respiratory therapist,
put it simply: “Reading and Beyond helped
me get my dream job. I wouldn’t have been
able to achieve my goals without them.”
When families are strong, communities thrive.
We’re here to walk alongside them—to listen,
to support, and to help every step forward
become the foundation for what comes next.
11 PROGRAMS
• Care Management System
• Health Disparities Program
• GLOW! Group Prenatal Care
• Family Advocacy Services
• Wellness Wednesday
• Family Health Days
HEALTH & WELLNESS
The Heartbeat of Every Family Journey
Health is at the core of everything we do. Whether
families are seeking healthcare navigation, social
services, mental health support, education, or
spaces to connect and recover, we make health and
wellness a shared priority across all stages of life.
This work is delivered through the Health & Wellness Pathway, part of Reading and Beyond’s Health & Wellness Domain.
It focuses on overall health and well-being — recognizing that wellness is essential to growth at every life stage.
HIGHLIGHT
From 2023–2024,
211 families received
individualized care management
through the Health & Wellness Pathway.
Services include healthcare navigation,
health education, mental health support,
and social services—especially for seniors
and parents managing trauma or stress.
These supports help families access early
assessments, build health confidence, and
move toward long-term self-sufficiency.
12 Wellness Makes Progress Possible
Whether it’s a preschooler adjusting to a
classroom or a parent navigating job loss,
emotional health shapes how families move
through challenges—and how they heal. That’s
why health and wellness are embedded across
every program at Reading and Beyond.
For Rita Rios, our Wellness Wednesdays
became a lifeline. A senior living alone,
she found in those weekly sessions both
practical information and a renewed sense
of purpose. “Reading and Beyond became a
second home,” she said. “I didn’t feel alone
anymore. I felt part of something bigger.”
That sense of belonging is intentional.
“We’ve always seen wellness as
central,” said Luis Santana, our founder.
“When you support the whole person,
everything else becomes possible.”
From youth like Anthony, who found emotional
safety and self-expression in group discussions,
to young mothers like Droua, who juggled
healing and ambition, mental health and
connection have been essential to their growth.
And while the work is deeply personal, it’s
also strategic. “We’re not here to feel good,”
said Eric, a founding board member. “We’re
here to get results.” Supporting wellness
helps families show up to school, succeed at
work, and engage in community—outcomes
that funders and families care about alike.
One participant in the Health Disparities
Project shared: “It helped me to know
that I could be encouraged… that there
are people out there to help you.”
13 CONTRIBUTIONS
$35K
REVENUE
& SUPPORT
$4,164K
GRANTS &
CONTRACTS:
FOUNDATIONS
$489K
GRANTS &
CONTRACTS:
GOVERNMENTS
$2,921K
IN-KIND INCOME
$84K
INVESTMENT
INCOME, NET
$550K
OTHER INCOME
$9K
FUNDRAISING, NET
$76K
DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
$21K
PROGRAM
SERVICES
$3,122K
FUNDRAISING
$55K
OTHER PROGRAMS
$97K
FAMILY
SUCCESS
$772K
HEALTH &
WELLNESS
$748K
SCHOOL
READINESS
$1,176K
SCHOOL SUCCESS
$329K
SALARIES &
BENEFITS
$544K
OTHER OPERATING
EXPENSES
$464K
MANAGEMENT
& GENERAL
$1,008K
FINANCIALS
At Reading and Beyond,
we know that our people
are essential to our
mission. We value our
team members not just
as employees, but as
partners in delivering
meaningful, community-
driven change. That
commitment starts
with strong systems.
Our finance team
ensures compliance
with all federal and
state requirements
while building the
confidence of donors
and public agencies
through transparency
and accountability. These
systems make it possible
to attract and retain
dedicated professionals
across the organization,
ultimately strengthening
our capacity to create
lasting impact.
76% of all
spending goes
directly to
families and
programs
14 CONTRIBUTIONS
$35K
REVENUE
& SUPPORT
$4,164K
GRANTS &
CONTRACTS:
FOUNDATIONS
$489K
GRANTS &
CONTRACTS:
GOVERNMENTS
$2,921K
IN-KIND INCOME
$84K
INVESTMENT
INCOME, NET
$550K
OTHER INCOME
$9K
FUNDRAISING, NET
$76K
DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
$21K
PROGRAM
SERVICES
$3,122K
FUNDRAISING
$55K
OTHER PROGRAMS
$97K
FAMILY
SUCCESS
$772K
HEALTH &
WELLNESS
$748K
SCHOOL
READINESS
$1,176K
SCHOOL SUCCESS
$329K
SALARIES &
BENEFITS
$544K
OTHER OPERATING
EXPENSES
$464K
MANAGEMENT
& GENERAL
$1,008K
Stewarding
Every Dollar to
Maximize Impact
The diagram shows how resources
move through our organization—
from the funding we receive to the
way those funds are spent. The
width of each line is proportional
to the amount it represents. On
the left are our revenue sources,
including government contracts,
foundation support, and community
contributions. These streams
feed into the dark navy bar, which
represents our total revenue for the
year. The orange segments show
how that revenue is allocated across
our core expenses: program services,
management and operations,
and fundraising. The far right side
of the chart breaks down those
expenses further, highlighting how
funds are used to support families
and strengthen communities.
Insights
• Government grants remain our
largest funding source, contributing
nearly 70% of total revenue.
• Approximately 75% of revenue is
directed to program services—an
investment in frontline work that
delivers measurable outcomes
for families and communities.
• Administrative costs account
for about 24% of spending,
reflecting a balanced investment
in infrastructure and staff
capacity. National benchmarks
suggest nonprofit overhead
typically ranges from 20–35%.
• Fundraising expenses remain
minimal at just over 1%, allowing
nearly every dollar raised to
advance program delivery.
15 INVEST IN WHAT MATTERS MOST
When a child starts school ready to learn, when a
teen steps into leadership, when a parent finds a path
to stability—our whole community moves forward.
That’s what happens when we invest in our future.
At Reading and Beyond, we put children at the
center and surround them with the support their
families need to thrive. From early learning and youth
development to job training, wellness, and mental
health care, our programs are built to strengthen both
generations—because that’s how change lasts.
As public funding shifts and need continues to rise, your support means more than ever. It helps us stay present, stay flexible, and stay focused on what matters: strong children, strong families, and stronger futures.
Ways to support:
• Make a one-time or
monthly donation
• Sponsor a program
• Offer in-kind gifts or
professional services
• Volunteer your time
• Become a
community partner
readingandbeyond.org/donate
16 Ways to support:
• Make a one-time or
monthly donation
• Sponsor a program
• Offer in-kind gifts or
professional services
• Volunteer your time
• Become a
community partner
EMPOWERING FAM
ILIES • STREN
G
THENING COMMUNITIES • EMPOWERING FAM
ILIES • STREN
G
THENING COMMUNITIES •
@readingandbeyond
@reading_beyond
@reading-and-beyond
Reading and Beyond
1546 N Street
Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 342-8600
[email protected]
readingandbeyond.org
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