Children’s Network honored 21 individuals for their efforts in preventing child abuse on April 3 at the 26th Annual Shine a Light on Child Abuse Prevention Awards Ceremony in San Bernardino.
The event recognized San Bernardino County staff, private individuals, businesses and nonprofit groups from select categories who selflessly gave to make a difference in the lives of at-risk children in San Bernardino County.
“The Shine a Light Awards are more than recognition — they’re a testament to the courage, compassion, and commitment of those who stand up for our children,” said Children’s Network Officer Ashley Brooksher. “Each honoree has made a lasting, positive impact in our community, proving that one person’s dedication can truly change lives. Together, we shine a light on hope, healing, and a safer future for every child.”
The following individuals were honored by Children’s Network for their outstanding dedication and tireless efforts to prevent the abuse of children in San Bernardino County:
- Lifetime Advocate: Marcelino “Mars” Serna, Family/Community Engagement Program Specialist, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools
- Business: Victorville Motors
- Behavioral Health: Naomi Hill, Intervention Specialist, Desert Mountain Children’s Center
- Children and Family Services: Iztaccihualt “Marisa” Meneses, Office Assistant III, San Bernardino County Children and Family Services
- Community-based Provider: Edwina Thomas, Community Intervention Specialist, Young Visionaries
- Education: Stacy Diemert, Program Technician, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools
- Foster Parents: Tonya and Brett Todd
- Law Enforcement: Gloria Orejel, Crime Prevention Program Coordinator, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department
- Healthcare: Diana Gonzalez, Community Behavioral Health Clinician, Inland Empire Health Plan
- Mentoring – Individual: Dr. Emily Shum, Licensed Psychologist, Wholistic Health Collaborative
- Legal: Jennifer Diaz, Administrative Supervisor, Children’s Advocacy Group
- Public Defender: Dakota Bates, Social Service Practitioner, San Bernardino County Public Defender
- Probation: Dominique Bright, Probation Officer II, San Bernardino County Probation
- Public Health: Jessica Scray Gonzalez, Public Health Nurse II, San Bernardino County Public Health
- Volunteer: Edward Thompson, volunteer, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Inland Empire
- Community-Based Organization: Morongo Tribal TANF San Bernardino
- Early Childhood Mental Health Systems: Theresa Vaughan, Program Manager, Desert Mountain Children’s Center
- Father Engagement: Child Care Resource Center’s Family Resource Center
- Coalition Against Sexual Exploitation: Laura Cruz, Police Officer, San Bernardino Police Department
- Mentoring – Organization: Life Builders Inc.
Children’s Network is dedicated to strengthening and promoting the well-being of children, families and communities in San Bernardino County. Through active collaboration with county and community partners, we coordinate preventative programs and services, provide relevant training opportunities for service providers, and raise public awareness about the risk factors of child abuse and neglect. Our vision is to achieve positive outcomes for children and families in the region.
Additional County Update News – April 17, 2025
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