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• Empowering Minority-Owned Businesses: A 101 Guide to Contract Bidding Success

  December 30, 2024 3:59 pm Leave a Comment

  

   San Bernardino, CA – The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group (SBC Equity Element Group), in collaboration with the County of San Bernardino Purchasing Department, has created a workshop series designed to increase the number of minority-owned businesses working with the County.

  The goal of the event, “Empowering Minority-Owned Businesses: Your 101 Guide to Contract Bidding Success,” is to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in contract bidding.

  “The SBC Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. The County spends $6.4 billion yearly on salaries, infrastructure, and procurement. These workshops are designed to help people of color access and increase the number and amount of contracts they obtain from the procurement process,” said Rev. George Lamb, chair of the SBC Equity Element Group.

  

  Workshop Objectives: 

  1. Understanding and Managing ePro: Attendees will learn how to register, manage their vendor accounts, reset credentials, and navigate the ePro system to search for open bids.
  2. Review Bid Proposals and Ask Questions: The workshop will cover County bid request templates, completion of the Local Vendor Self-Certification Form, and strategies for effectively posting questions to clarify bid requirements.
  3. Respond to Bids Successfully: Participants will master the process of creating and submitting precise quotes in ePro while avoiding common pitfalls.
  4. Businesses can register online with ePro at the Purchasing Department website at: https://wp.sbcounty.gov/purchasing/vendor-registration/

  Workshop Dates and Locations

  • January 21, 2025, 4 PM – 7 PM
  • San Bernardino County Government Center 385 N Arrowhead Ave, San Bernardino, CA
  • January 28: To Be Determined
  • January 30: To Be Determined

  “We are committed to increasing the number of local and minority-owned businesses contracting with San Bernardino County,” said San Bernardino County Director of Purchasing, Pete Mendoza.

  “Under Pete’s leadership, the Purchasing Department has not only received the Excellence in Procurement Achievement Award from the National Procurement Institute in both 2022 and 2023 but also a total of four NACo (National Association of Counties) Achievement Awards in 2023,” said County Chief Executive Officer Luther Snoke.

  

  “It has been an honor to lead the great team of professionals serving in the County Purchasing Department for the past two years,” Mendoza said. “I look forward to continuing the outstanding work we’ve been doing while growing our skills to meet the ever-evolving needs of the county and the communities we serve.”

  “Don’t miss the opportunity to empower your business and enhance your bidding skills. Click [here] to register (link pending),” said Rev. Lamb.

  Contact Sandra Abarca at (909) 387-4261 for more information.

  For additional information about the SBC Equity Element Group,  contact Info@SBCEEG.org.

  

  About The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group

  The SBC Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions. We believe that Equity Elevates Everyone.

• Equity Element Group: Driving Change and Empowering Communities

  December 18, 2024 12:13 am Leave a Comment

  

  “The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and driving systemic change, the group is shaping a brighter future for all,” said the Rev. George Lamb, chair of the Equity Element Group.

   San Bernardino, CA – The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group (SBC Equity Element Group) is a dynamic force for positive change in San Bernardino County. It is dedicated to addressing systemic inequities and creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly people of color.

  The SBC Equity Element Group was created shortly after the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution declaring Racism A Public Health Crisis on Tuesday, June 23, 2020. The resolution tasked the County Administrative Office with forming an equity group to represent the 11th element of the Countywide Vision.

  “The SBC Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and driving systemic change, the Group is shaping a brighter future for all,” said SBC Equity Element Group chair Rev. George Lamb.

  “The SBC Equity Element Group is charged with determining where there may be racial disparities among our residents in the county, recommend campaigns and programs to address those issues, and identify initiatives that are already underway within County government or in the community that can be highlighted and supported,” explained San Bernardino County Administrative Assistant Executive Officer Diana Alexander.

  In 2020, the inaugural SBC Equity Element Group was comprised of Black community leaders.

  

  A Collaborative Approach to Equity

  The Equity Element Group’s founding members were inspiring leaders from various community organizations handpicked by the County Board of Supervisors. This Group was dedicated to breaking down barriers and championing inclusivity. Among its members were: 

  • Jordan Brown – Black Voice News
  • Keynasia Buffong – National Black Grads
  • Pastor Samuel Casey – Churches Organized for Prophetic Engagement (COPE)
  • Willie Ellison – Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce
  • George Lamb – Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (F.A.C.C.T.)
  • Tammy Martin-Ryles – Black Chamber of Commerce
  • Tremaine Mitchell – Youth Action Project
  • Phyllis K. Morris-Green – Reimagining Our Communities (ROC)
  • Bishop Kelvin Simmons – Inland Empire Concerned African American Churches (IECAAC)
  • The late Deborah Smith-Gilbert was a highly esteemed member of the IE National Council of Negro Women. (IENCNW). Her contributions to the Equity Element Group and the community will forever resonate in our memories and be treasured deeply.
  • Terrance Stone – Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy
  • Bill Thomas – NAACP, High Desert Branch
  • Dina Walker – BLU Educational Foundation
  • Our departed colleague Reggie Webb was a valued member of the Cooperative Economic Empowerment Movement (CEEM) and the Westside Action Group (WAG). His contributions to Equity Element Group and the community will always be remembered and cherished.
  • Keith Willis – 100 Black Men of the Inland Empire
  • Chache Wright – NAACP

  “In 2024, the SBC Equity Element Group transformed due to changes in its membership. We are proud to introduce the steering committee,” said Rev. Lamb. “Additional members are being added and will be announced at the end of February.”

  Steering Committee Members Are:

  • George Lamb – Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (F.A.C.C.T.)Committee Chair
  • Bill Thomas – NAACP High Desert Branch
  • Dina Walker – BLU Educational Foundation
  • Pastor Samuel Casey – Churches Organized for Prophetic Engagement (COPE)
  • Phyllis Morris-Green – Reimagining Our Communities
  • Terrance Stone – Young Visionaries
  • Tremaine Mitchell – Youth Action

  

  Representing San Bernardino County as Collaborative Partners Are

  • Assistant Executive Officer Diana Alexander
  • Deputy Executive Officer Gilbert Ramos
  • Executive Administrative Assistant, Sandra Abarca
  • Executive Administrative Analyst, Erica Banks

  

  Photo Caption: Theodore B. Miller, Esq., Equity & Results

   Consultants

  • Theodore B. Miller, Esq., a co-principal and co-founder, leads the engagement.

  

   Communications and Public Information

  • Carl M. Dameron, Creative Director Dameron Communications. An Inland Empire-based full-service advertising and public relations firm.

   Key Accomplishments

  The SBC Equity Element Group, in collaboration with the San Bernadino County Administrative office, has made significant strides in its mission to create a more equitable future for San Bernardino County:

  • Partnering with Equity and Results: retained the firm of Equity and Results, a multiracial, collectively led learning organization rooted in advancing racial equity and liberation through institutional change. The engagement is led by Theodore B. Miller, Esq., Co-Principal.
  • Collaborating with the County Purchasing Department: working to increase contracting opportunities for minority-owned businesses in the county’s procurement process.
  • Advancing Equity and Inclusivity within County Departments: Collaborated with county departments to identify and correct any policies or practices that have created or could create barriers to achieving equity.
  • Contributing to the Countywide Vision: Representatives from the SBC Equity Element Group joined the Countywide Vision leadership team to assist with developing initiatives that promote and help fulfill the countywide vision.
  • Launching a New Interactive Website: The Group is excited to announce the launch of its new website in the first quarter of 2025. The website will provide a platform for community engagement, job opportunities, and business development.

  

  A Brighter Future

  “The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and driving systemic change, the Group is shaping a brighter future for all,” said Rev. Lamb.

  He continued, “The SBC Equity Element Group has developed a logo and slogan to emphasize that “Equity Elevates Everyone.” The Group’s initial efforts focused on enhancing equity for the Black community, and as we move forward, our work will encompass all people of color; the results will benefit everyone.”

  For example, although initially perceived as a remedy for racial discrimination against Blacks, the provisions of the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibited discrimination based on sex and race in employment practices, public accommodations, and federally funded programs. Furthermore, it bolstered voting rights enforcement and facilitated the desegregation of educational institutions. These hard-won rights not only helped Blacks be more successful, but they significantly advanced all women, Latinos, Asians, and individuals of color.

  

   For additional information about the SBC Equity Element Group,  contact Info@SBCEEG.org.

  About The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group

  The SBC Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions.

• George Lamb, Voted Chair of the San Bernardino County Equity Element Group

  November 18, 2024 6:47 pm Leave a Comment

  

  “I am privileged and honored to serve as the inaugural Chair of the Equity Element Group,” said Reverend George Lamb.

   SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF – The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group has appointed Rev. George Lamb – President and CEO of the Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (FACT) – as the inaugural chair of the group, which is dedicated to eliminating societal racial disparities.

  “I am privileged and honored to serve as the inaugural chair of the SBC Equity Element Group,” said Rev. Lamb. “This is an incredible opportunity for us to take responsibility for leading ourselves, our families, and our communities in creating a transformative, just, and equitable society for Black residents in San Bernardino County. We have a lot of work to do to create a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly for Black individuals and people of color.”

  “Rev. Lamb serves the community with unwavering dedication and invests significant time in improving the quality of life for individuals residing in San Bernardino County,” stated County Assistant Executive Officer Diana Alexander.

  As the CEO of Millennium Man Consultants, Rev. Lamb negotiates contractual agreements with community-based organizations, non-profit entities, and various government agencies at the county and state levels. He focuses on organizational management, operational effectiveness, and marketing strategies.

  Rev. Lamb stated, “As a member of the Community Vital Signs Steering Committee, I chair the Community Engagement sub-Committee, co-chair the Public Safety sub-Committee, and also serve on the Strategic Plan Implementation, Education, Economic Development, and Nominations Select sub-committees.” He also serves on the First 5 San Bernardino Advisory Board.

  He has served on the San Bernardino County Homeless Veterans Advisory Board and Taskforce and as a member of the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools’ Wellness Strategy Action Team.

  Rev. Lamb is the retired president of the Board of Directors for the American Evangelical Christian Churches and the founder/executive director of Millennium Man Ministries, a non-profit charitable trust organization. He also serves as the president of the Board of Directors for the American Evangelical Christian Churches.

  His commitment to servant leadership and passion for the Kingdom of God and its people enable him to effectively coordinate community resources, service providers, and county agencies. This coordination focuses on developing readiness skills for individuals in faith-based organizations (FBOs) and the staff, community-based organizations (CBOs), and other agencies serving them.

  Rev. Lamb received degrees from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary and Patten University. He leads the Men’s Ministry and co-directs the Educational Ministry with his wife, Jamie. They have three adult children and six grandchildren. George is an agent of cultural change and community transformation; he continually works to turn perceived “liabilities” into opportunities for growth and improvement.

  SBC Equity Element Group Members include George Lamb, chair of the Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (FACCT) Committee; Bill Thomas, NAACP High Desert Branch; Dina Walker, BLU Educational Foundation; Pastor Samuel Casey, Churches Organized for Prophetic Engagement (COPE); Phyllis Morris-Green, Reimagining Our Communities; Terrance Stone, Young Visionaries; and Tremaine Mitchell, Youth Action.

  Representing San Bernardino County is Diana Alexander, Assistant Executive Officer, San Bernardino County Administrative Office; County Deputy Executive Officer Gilbert Ramos; and Executive Administrative Assistant Sandra Abarca.

  

  On Tuesday, June 23, 2020, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution declaring “Racism a Public Health Crisis.” The Board authorized the County Administrative Office to form an element group within the Countywide Vision focused on equity.

  “The Equity Element Group consists of influential and committed members of the Black community who are working together to improve our neighborhoods,” said San Bernardino County Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman. “We look forward to their recommendations to help us close gaps in services and opportunities for Black residents and people of color living and working in our county.”

  According to Alexander, the San Bernardino County Equity Element Group is tasked with identifying racial disparities impacting our county’s residents and recommending campaigns and programs to address these issues. The group will also identify initiatives already underway within county government or the community that can be highlighted and supported.

  

  For more information on the Equity Element Group, go online to SBCEEG.org

  About The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group

  The SBC Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions.

• San Bernardino County Equity Element Group with Diana Alexander at the Helm

  6:36 pm Leave a Comment

  

  “We will work collaboratively with community stakeholders to identify and dismantle systemic barriers that hinder progress for Black residents and people of color. Equity Elevates All; we will build a brighter future for all together.”

  San Bernardino, CA—Diana Alexander partners with the San Bernardino County Equity Element Group (SBC Equity Element Group) as a representative of the County Administrative Office. Alexander, a seasoned public administrator with extensive experience in the San Bernardino County government, collaborates with the group in its ongoing efforts to identify and address racial disparities and promote equity for all San Bernardino County residents.

  A Leader Committed to Equity

  Alexander oversees operations for seven County Human Services departments, including Veteran’s Affairs, Aging & Adult Services, Transitional Assistance, Child Support, First 5, Preschool Services, and IHSS-Public Authority.

  Alexander also oversees the equity work the County committed to as part of the unanimous resolution of the Board of Supervisors Declaring Racism A Public Health Crisis. She leads the Countywide Vision Leadership Team on behalf of the County’s Chief Executive Officer, Luther Snoke.

  “Alexander brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to social justice to the role. As San Bernardino County’s Assistant Executive Officer since 2020, she has overseen critical County departments and spearheaded the county’s equity work following the Board of Supervisors’ declaration of racism as a public health crisis,” said Snoke. (is this an actual quote you found from Luther? No, this quote I created for Snoke to review and approve or modify as he sees fit.)

  “I am honored to partner with and support the Equity Element Group in its vital mission to create a more just and equitable San Bernardino County,” Alexander said. “We will work collaboratively with community leaders and stakeholders to identify and dismantle systemic barriers that hinder progress for Black residents and people of color. As the Group’s slogan states, Equity Elevates All, we will build a brighter future for everyone.”

  Building on a Strong Foundation

  The SB County Equity Element Group was established in 2020 and incorporated into the Countywide Vision. Initially focused on the Black community, the group is committed to expanding its reach to include all ethnicities, fostering an inclusive vision for San Bernardino County.

  A History of Success

  Alexander has also served in many county, community, and church organizations. She has received many awards and accolades, including the Public Service Award for Excellence, the American Society for Public Administration 2024 Outstanding Senior Administrator award, the 2020 County Women’s Network “Extraordinary Woman ” award, and the San Bernardino County Association of African American Employees “County Trailblazer” award.

  She also received a resolution from the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors for her work in partnering with California State University, San Bernardino, to establish a Master of Public Administration Cohort for County employees.

  Alexander has an associate’s degree in liberal arts from San Bernardino Valley College and a bachelor’s and master’s degree in public administration, both from California State University, San Bernardino, where she was an adjunct professor in the Public Administration graduate school.

  Alexander lives in San Bernardino County. She attends the Mt. Rubidoux SDA church in Riverside, CA, where she is the first-ever female Head Elder. She is the proud parent of four children: two daughters-in-law, one son-in-law, and six grandchildren.

  For more information on the Equity Element Group, email Info@SBCEEG.org.

  

  About The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group

  The Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions.