Nonprofits

Local Residents Graduate from Pacific University Gilroy residents Christopher Colyer and Tayler Martinez graduated in spring commencement ceremonies from the Pacific University in Oregon. Colyer graduated with a bachelor of science from the College of Arts & Sciences. Martinez graduated with a doctor of medical science...

On a recent December afternoon, about 30 volunteers gathered at St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista to give their efforts to the sprawling, multifaceted Farmworker Caravan—an annual holiday donation drive for families in need in five counties.  Labeled a “Santa’s Workshop,” the Dec....

Three connected agricultural properties straddling the border of San Benito and Santa Clara counties were recently purchased by conservation organizations, ensuring the lands totaling more than 600 acres will remain an active link in a vital regional ecosystem.  The Peninsula Open Space Trust on Oct....

Ghosts, demons and moody teenagers are set to haunt the stage this season with San Benito Stage Company’s production of “Beetlejuice Jr.,” opening Oct. 24. This dark dramedy runs for three weekends in Hollister with eight performances, including two shows during Halloween weekend. “It’s a...

The Gilroy Chamber of Commerce will host the 2025 Spice of Life Awards gala and dinner on March 15 at the Gilroy Elks Lodge on Hecker Pass Highway. The theme for this year’s gala is “Emerald Elegance.”  The gala will take place from 5-9pm.  The chamber’s...

SVCreates, a regional nonprofit devoted to promoting and improving access to the arts, will celebrate dozens of 2023 California Arts Council Artist Fellows at an Aug. 10 event in Gilroy. The event will recognize 29 artist fellows from San Benito, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Santa Clara...

South Valley Symphony is seeking volunteers to perform and to serve on its nonprofit board of directors.  Musical talent is wanted on stage, with rehearsals starting Aug. 28 for the next SVS concert scheduled for Oct. 12. Violinists, violists, cellists and double bassists are especially...

The Gilroy Assistance League announced its 2025 grant recipients during a luncheon on April 23 at Eagle Ridge Golf Course in Gilroy. The event honored local organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth in South Santa Clara County, says a press...

Gilroy Garlic Festival Golf Classic is June 21 The annual Gilroy Garlic Festival Golf Classic will be held June 21 at Gilroy Golf Course, with proceeds to benefit the nonprofit Gilroy Garlic Festival Association.  Since 1979, the Garlic Festival Association has distributed more than $12 million...

Give blood In September, the American Red Cross stresses the continuing critical need for blood products to ensure patient care. Donors of all blood types are asked to give now to keep blood supply levels rising after a summer shortage. Type O blood donors and...