Academy for Grassroots Organizations (AcademyGO) is proud to celebrate 25 years of strengthening the region’s nonprofit community at its highly anticipated “Because of You” 25th Anniversary Luncheon. The celebration will take place on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Eastvale Community Center.
This commemorative event will bring together nonprofit professionals, community leaders, funders, and supporters to celebrate AcademyGO’s legacy and lasting impact. Guests will enjoy a meaningful program reflecting on the organization’s journey, honoring dedicated champions, and inspiring continued investment in the future of the Inland Empire’s nonprofit sector.
Founded in 2000 in the City of Barstow, California, AcademyGO began as a grassroots networking group supporting a few dozen community-based organizations in sharing resources and knowledge. Since then, it has grown into a recognized leader in nonprofit training and collaboration, with a network that now spans thousands of nonprofit professionals and volunteers across the Inland Empire. Today, AcademyGO plays a vital role in strengthening the region’s nonprofit ecosystem—equipping leaders with the tools, skills, and connections needed to drive lasting change throughout Southern California.
AcademyGO’s mission is to strengthen and positively impact communities by convening, equipping, and guiding nonprofit leaders. Through accessible, high-quality professional fundraising and grantwriting development, values-based leadership training, and peer learning opportunities, the organization empowers nonprofit professionals to expand their knowledge, increase their funding, and lead with purpose.
“Because of you, AcademyGO has had the privilege of walking alongside thousands of nonprofit professionals, helping them lead with confidence and purpose,” said Debbie A. Cannon, Executive Director of AcademyGO. “This luncheon is not just a celebration of our history—it’s a tribute to the changemakers, donors, and partners who’ve made it possible, and a call to keep moving forward together.”
Over the last 25 years, that mission has translated into tangible impact. Graduates of The Grantwriting Academy for Grassroots Organizations™ have secured more than $1.6 million in funding, while The Fundraising Academy Grassroots Organizations™ graduates have raised more than $7.5 million collectively to amplify their missions. In total, more than 2,500 nonprofit professionals and volunteers trained through AcademyGO have raised over $130 million to support their missions and strengthen communities across the region.
As one Nonprofit Development Director shared, “Since taking the [AcademyGO] class, our organization has secured at least an additional $500K in funding.”
The “Because of You” Anniversary Luncheon is more than a celebration; it’s a moment to honor and thank everyone who made this milestone possible. What began as a small group with a bold vision has grown into a movement to strengthen the nonprofit sector. Because of every person who attended a training, made a donation, or shared their time and expertise, AcademyGO has empowered countless organizations, each playing a vital role in building a stronger, more resilient community.
Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets are now available. All proceeds from the luncheon will directly support AcademyGO’s programs that continue to strengthen nonprofit leadership, foster connections, and build capacity across the region.
To purchase tickets, explore sponsorship opportunities, or learn more about AcademyGO’s ongoing work, visit: https://academygo.com.
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