Congratulations to the 2026 Kinecta Kindness Recipients!
DOSE Initiative
Tracy F. nominated Mona C. and DOSE Initiative. Here’s the submission: “I wish to nominate Mona C. and DOSE Initiative for a Kinecta Kindness award. Mona is a 2025 Kinecta scholarship awardee who founded this nonprofit in 2023. DOSE Initiative fights gender equality & youth online safety and is dedicated to raising awareness of Technology-Facilitated Gender Based Violence. DOSE Initiative helps youths navigate the digital world with confidence and resilience, making a safer inclusive online space for all.”
Restoration Diversion Services (RDS)
Daniel A. nominated Deatra H. and Restoration Diversion Services (RDS). Here’s the submission: “While working at the nonprofit Restoration Diversion Services (RDS) Deatra H. risks her life in an undercover operation rescuing girls from the sex traffickers who sell them over and over each day, seven days a week on the streets of Compton. The RDS nonprofit is operating on a shoestring and can only afford two part time workers. Yet these two women, working only three days a week, since a year ago March have successfully rescued twenty-two girls/young women from the traffickers. Imagine what they could achieve with a full-time staff.”
SCHARP (Southern California Health & Rehabilitation Program)
Lisbeth H. nominated Yantzi S.G. and SCHARP. Here’s the submission: “I am honored to nominate Yantzi and the nonprofit organization SCHARP for the Kinecta Kindness Award. SCHARP’s mission is rooted in compassion: to provide comprehensive mental-health services to some of the most vulnerable and underserved individuals in our community—including those experiencing homelessness, undocumented individuals, people struggling with addiction, individuals recently released from incarceration, and people living with severe mental illness. What makes SCHARP extraordinary is its unwavering commitment to serve everyone without discrimination. Even when individuals lack medical coverage or the ability to pay, SCHARP still steps forward to provide care. The agency’s services are fully community-based, meaning staff meet clients wherever they are—on the streets, in shelters, in temporary housing, or in their homes—ensuring that no obstacle prevents someone from receiving help. Beyond mental-health treatment, SCHARP offers holistic support, including case management.”
El Segundo High School PTSA
David F. nominated Rocki D. and the El Segundo High School PTSA. Here’s the submission: “The El Segundo PTSA is a valued Focus SEG partner, and Kinecta is eager to continue strengthening our relationship with this organization. Their goals align closely with Kinecta’s vision to educate and support the development of financially strong communities. We look forward to deepening our collaboration and expanding the positive impact we can create together.”
Pathstone Corporation
Candlyn S. nominated Lisa D. and Pathstone Corporation. Here’s the submission: “I discovered Pathstone at Project TIPS during the summertime. The ladies at the table were amazing at explaining what they do within the community and how they give back. Kinecta went and taught a financial literacy class to their workforce development students. It was amazing to see everything they offered and did for the people that were trying to rebuild their life. The runoff of grants to help the low-income areas in Rochester. I couldn't think of a better non-profit in receiving this donation.”
Wilderness Youth Project
Rebecca C. nominated Ulises R. and Wilderness Youth Project (WYP). Here’s the submission: “WYP is dedicated to the children in our community and connecting them to the abundance of nature and beauty of Santa Barbara County. Kids of all ages learn that physical activity, spending time outdoors, and caring for the environment is the best medicine for dealing with the pressures of life. Ulises has served as a mentor and advocate for youth for over 20 years. His passion and expertise have built strong relationships with families through our community. Thank you, Ulises, for all you do!”
American Cancer Society
Eliana H. nominated Michelle R. and American Cancer Society / Relay For Life. Here’s the submission: “I would like to nominate Michelle for the Kinecta Kindness Award for her extraordinary compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to supporting individuals and families impacted by cancer through the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life. Michelle recently reached out to me with an update on the 2026 Relay season, and her message was a powerful reminder of what genuine kindness looks like in action. Despite facing yet another personal battle with cancer, Michelle continues to give her time, energy, and heart to this cause. Her recent successful surgery is a testament to courage — but what moves me most is that even during her own fight, she remains committed to helping others have more hope, more support, and more tomorrows. Michelle has been a longtime volunteer with the American Cancer Society after losing her mother to the same disease. Instead of letting grief close her off, she transformed it into purpose.”
South High School Theatre Program
Samantha A. nominated Nicole P. and South High School’s Theatre Program. Here’s the submission: “I wish to nominate South High's Theatre program because it is a wonderful program and opportunity for students. Theatre creates unity and a community.”
Oak Park Instrumental Music Association
Shara D. nominated Ron G. and Oak Park Instrumental Music Association. Here’s the submission: “Ron is a current long time Kinecta member who has gone above and beyond to service his son’s high school music program through volunteerism. He has diligently looked for ways to fundraise for the kids and volunteers his time by transporting kids and equipment, and is very giving of his time for whatever else is needed.”
South Bay Parkland Conservancy
Jim M. nominated Christine B. and South Bay Parkland Conservancy. Here’s the submission: “The mission of the South Bay Parkland Conservancy’s Redondo Beach Community Garden is to provide residents of Redondo Beach with a space to grow food, build community, reduce food insecurity, and practice sustainable and healthy living. As part of this mission, we grow food in our Giving Garden, with the food donated to St. James Church in Redondo, which runs a program called Feed the Needy. They serve meals to those in need three times a week and can feed up to 80 people at each time. Kicki Byers is the Giving Garden Committee Lead and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of our donation program. She is extremely organized and dedicated to the Giving Garden and has grown the program to what it is today. The Giving Garden, with the help of other plot members donating from their beds, have donated 119.2 lbs. of produce to date.”
Foothills Pregnancy Resource Center
Reina R. nominated Vanessa B. and Foothills Pregnancy Resource Center (PRC). Here’s the submission: “Nominating Foothills PRC is meaningful to me because their work offers hope, kindness, and support in our local communities to help support to individuals and families when they need it most.”
Bijoux Foundation
Gabriela F. nominated Brook M. and Bijoux Foundation. Here’s the submission: “Brooke is an AMAZING person! She is kind and selfless, and her organization is truly making a difference. She deserves ALL the help she can get to continue making the world a better place for us and future generations.”
Pacific Marine Mammal Society
Darin M. nominated Kathy T. and Pacific Marine Mammal Society. Here’s the submission: “I wish to nominate Kathy Teulie for the Kinecta Kindness Award because of her long-standing dedication as an Animal Care Volunteer at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. Kathy has devoted many years to supporting the rehabilitation of sick and injured marine mammals, a mission critical to preserving ocean wildlife. Her volunteer work includes preparing food, cleaning enclosures and pools, feeding and weighing patients, and assisting with rescues. Kathy also plays an important role in releasing healthy animals back into their natural habitat, ensuring they have a second chance at life. Her compassion and commitment exemplify kindness in action and make a meaningful impact on both the animals and the community.”
Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles
Shara D. nominated Lily K. and Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles. Here’s the submission: “I am nominating Lily K. for the Kinecta Kindness Award because of her selfless dedication to the financial future of the young women in our community. She doesn't just provide support; she is making sure they have the tools for lifelong independence. By teaching the girls how to manage money, save, and invest, Lily is breaking cycles and ensuring these girls grow into empowered, financially secure adults.”
Inspirit Jiu Jitsu Foundation
Connie T. nominated Michele S. and Inspirit Jiu Jitsu Foundation. Here’s the submission: “I am honored to nominate Inspirit Jiu Jitsu Academy Foundation for the Kinecta Kindness Award in recognition of its positive and lasting impact in the South Bay community. For many years, Inspirit has gone beyond teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques by cultivating an environment rooted in discipline, respect, and honor — both on and off the mats. Through the dedication of its professors, coaches, and junior coaches, Inspirit has built a strong team committed to shaping young athletes, preparing them not only for competitive tournaments but also for life’s challenges. Inspirit places a strong emphasis on personal development, helping students build character, confidence, and self-esteem while nurturing the next generation of leaders. This commitment is reflected in the academy’s continued growth in enrollment, demonstrating that its programs consistently exceed expectations.”
El Segundo Kiwanis Club
Laurie S.B. nominated Barry G. and El Segundo Kiwanis Club. Here’s the submission: “Barry has been working hard to get sponsorships for the Big EL Segundo Chilipalooza that is run by Kiwanis. All this money will help this event become a success. The event will include over 400 people, and Barry is an instrumental part in making this event a success. The event is held at Library Park in ES. Any extra funds would be very much appreciated.”