ANNUAL REPORT 24 | 25
CSET HELPING PEOPLE. CHANGING LIVES.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Message ................................ 1 Who We Serve ..................................... 2
Our Mission CSET combats poverty by providing individuals, families, and communities with the resources, skills, and opportunities to thrive.
Participant Demographics ....................... 3 Board President Message ........................ 4 Board of Directors .................................. 5 Energy Services ..................................... 6
Our Vision CSET envisions a community equipped with the tools, resources, and confidence to pursue a better quality of life.
Community Initiatives ............................. 7 Sequoia Community Corps .....................
8
Workforce Development ......................... 9 Visalia Navigation Center ......................
10
Volunteers ............................................
11
Success Story Message...........................
12
Financial Review ...................................
13
Our Values Belonging Hope Growth Connection
A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR This year marked a major milestone for CSET, as we opened the doors to the brand new Visalia Navigation Center. This low-barrier shelter provides a safe space to stay for up to 100 individuals and offers warm meals, community resources and stability for families and individuals experiencing homelessness. We’ve already seen change in the lives of many VNC residents, and we look forward to celebrating many more successes. We also proudly expanded our community beautification efforts throughout Tulare County. These crews help keep our highways and public spaces clean and beautiful, while providing valuable job training for participants. Additionally, our Youth Action Board (YAB) launched this year by connecting youth experiencing homelessness with clothing, life skills and job training. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our many partners, supporters, staff and volunteers who stand alongside us every day. Together, we’re improving lives and making lasting change in our communities.
With Deep Gratitude, Mary Alice Escarsega-Fechner Executive Director
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WHO WE SERVE —
8,353
People were connected to CSET programs and services, countywide
4,044
Households served with an income at or below 100% of the federal poverty line
497
Partnerships with government, education, and non-profit organizations to expand community resources and opportunities
752
People were unhoused or faced instability while seeking help at CSET
3,573
Households who sought help at CSET and had children living in the home
2
Unstated 2.2%
Unknown Black/African American 3.4% 3.8%
RACE
DEMO GRAPHICS —
Not Hispanic, Latino or Spanish Origins 25.9%
Latino/Hispanic 28.9%
ETHNICITY
White 40.8%
Hispanic, Latino or Spanish Origins 71.9%
Other 16.1% Grades 0‐8
Teens (age 14 - 17)
Male
Grades 9‐12/Non‐Graduate Young Adults (age 18 - 24)
High School Graduate/ Equivalency Diploma
Female
12 grade + Some Post‐Secondary Adults (age 25 - 64)
Unstated
2 or 4 years College Graduate Graduate of other post‐secondary school
Seniors (age 65 +)
GENDER
AGE
0% 5% 10 % 15 % 20 % 25 % 30 % 35 %
0% 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 %
0% 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 %
Unknown/not reported
EDUCATION
3
A MESSAGE FROM OUR BOARD Serving as Board President has provided the opportunity to see firsthand the dedication, perseverance, and forward-thinking spirit that drives CSET every day. During the past year, our organization has embraced new challenges and opportunities with purpose, accountability, and a commitment to improving the lives of those we serve. The Board of Directors is honored to support this important work by providing strategic direction, responsible oversight, and careful stewardship of CSET’s resources. Along with CSET’s leadership and staff, we are committed to advancing our mission to combat poverty by providing individuals, families, and communities with the resources, skills, and opportunities to thrive. The Board is excited and humbled by the many programs and services CSET provides to our community. It is truly heartwarming to see the support of our partners, local businesses, and the many volunteers who graciously give their time and talents to help others. Each day, we see what can be accomplished when people come together around a common purpose and a shared commitment to building a stronger community. We recently expanded our First-Time Homebuyer Education courses, hosting workshops throughout the county to ensure residents have access to the information, resources, and assistance needed to navigate the process of purchasing their first home. From building community parks and providing employment training to delivering senior services and energy assistance, CSET continues to meet people where they are and provide meaningful support and hope for a better future. The accomplishments highlighted in this report represent more than organizational success. They represent lives impacted, partnerships strengthened, and meaningful progress toward a stronger, more resilient Tulare County. We are grateful for the trust placed in CSET by the residents we serve, the dedication of our employees and volunteers, and the continued support of our many community partners. As we look to the future, we remain committed to working together, finding new opportunities to serve, and making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities throughout Tulare County.
Steve Graybehl President, Board of Directors
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BOARD OF
DIRECTORS — Marcia Becerra Vice President Low-Income Sector
Steve Graybehl President Private Sector
Gordon McClaskey Public Sector
Nancy Loliva Public Sector
Linda Fontanilla Public Sector
Kevin Mizner Public Sector
Maria Quinones Private Sector
Alma Torres-Nguyen Secretary Private Sector
Cesar Lopez Treasurer Private Sector
Malorie Barragan Low-Income Sector
Sofia Cook Low-Income Sector
Todd Henderson Low-Income Sector
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CHANGE HAS...
A RIPPLE EFFECT.
ENERGY SERVICES CSET’s Energy Services Department works to improve the comfort, safety, and affordability of homes for local families by reducing energy consumption and lowering utility costs. Through a variety of assistance programs and home improvement services, residents receive support that helps make their homes more energy efficient while promoting healthy living environments. For both homeowners and renters, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers financial relief through one-time assistance with utility bills. In addition to direct assistance, the Energy Services team encourages long-term energy savings through education and conservation efforts. Working alongside the Sequoia Community Corps, staff conduct home assessments and install energy-saving upgrades such as energy-efficient windows, carbon monoxide detectors, and other weatherization improvements designed to enhance household safety and reduce energy costs.
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
3,893 $1,352,114
Households received energy assistance Amount spent on Weatherization upgrades and renovations
157
Homes were weatherized
571
Smoke alarms were installed
136
Homes received smoke alarms
6
COMMUNITY INITIATIVES The Community Initiatives Department offers a variety of programs and services designed to strengthen families, support self-sufficiency, and improve the quality of life throughout our communities. By addressing the needs of individuals and families, the team works to create opportunities that help residents achieve long-term stability. Through collaboration, education, and community engagement, Community Initiatives helps residents build stronger connections, enhance their neighborhoods, and develop the skills needed to become active leaders in their communities. Programs and services include free tax preparation, Meals on Wheels for seniors, Family Resource Centers, parenting education, substance abuse prevention, housing support, and other resources that promote family well-being and economic security.
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
22,133
People visited a Family Resource Center
179,893
Meals served and delivered to seniors facing food insecurities
448
Households received housing support services
4,217 $6,893,614
Tax returns prepared at no cost, through VITA Total amount of dollars in tax refunds to Tulare and Kings County residents
7
SEQUOIA COMMUNITY CORPS The Sequoia Community Corps (SCC) provides young adults ages 18 to 26 with opportunities to gain valuable job skills, educational advancement, and hands-on work experience in Tulare, Kings, and Kern Counties. Through a combination of workforce development, leadership training, and academic support, participants can earn their high school diploma while preparing for meaningful careers. The SCC offers vocational training in fields such as weatherization, urban forestry, and public works, equipping Corpsmembers with practical skills that benefit both their futures and their communities. The Corps also promotes environmental stewardship through conservation education and recycling initiatives that collect CRV beverage containers, electronic waste, used oil, and tires.
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
Working in partnership with local governments, state agencies, businesses, and the Butte County Office of Education, Corpsmembers complete projects that improve parks, revitalize neighborhoods, and support the conservation of natural resources. Their work creates lasting positive impacts across the region.
595
Corpsmembers enrolled
533
Community service hours by Corpsmembers
547
Trees planted by Corpsmembers
282,654
Pounds of recycled E-Waste
225,507
Pounds of recycled CRV materials
8
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT The Workforce Development Department provides employment, training, and career advancement opportunities for youth and adults throughout Tulare County. Through a variety of workforce programs, participants gain the skills, experience, and confidence needed to secure meaningful employment and achieve long-term economic stability. Services include paid work experience, career exploration, job readiness training, individualized career counseling, and youth leadership development. In addition to supporting job seekers, the workforce team assists local employers with recruitment assistance, candidate screening, and placement services. These partnerships help businesses connect with qualified workers while reducing hiring and training costs. Workforce Development programs are made possible through funding and collaboration with the Workforce Investment Board of Tulare County (WIB), the Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency, and local business partners committed to strengthening the regional workforce.
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
49,113
People visited an Employment Connection Center
249
Participants in the Next Step (Welfare-to-Work) program
192
Adults participated in job or skills training
171
Youth engaged in leadership and job training resources
101
Youth entered into an education or training activity
9
VISALIA NAVIGATION CENTER The Visalia Navigation Center (VNC), operated by CSET, serves as a central resource for individuals and families experiencing homelessness by providing temporary shelter and supportive services through a coordinated referral system. Designed as a low-barrier facility, the VNC offers a safe and welcoming environment where residents can access the resources needed to move toward stable housing and selfsufficiency. The Center was established through a collaborative effort of local agencies, community partners, philanthropic supporters, and dedicated volunteers who share a commitment to addressing homelessness in Tulare County. With the capacity to serve up to 100 residents at a time, the VNC provides access to a comprehensive network of services, including employment assistance, mental health resources, substance use prevention programs, case management, and housing support. Residents also benefit from amenities such as storage space, laundry facilities, and on-site kennels that allow them to remain with their pets while receiving services at the VNC.
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
9,805
Total bed nights provided for individuals at the VNC
600
Total hours donated by volunteers
631
Workshops and presentations by partner agencies
171
Individuals served at the VNC
18,207
Meals served to VNC residents
10
THANK YOU! 105 VOLUNTEERS —
Total Volunteers
12,546 Total Volunteer Hours
VITA Tax Preparers This year, 105 VITA tax preparers volunteered 2,445 hours to complete 4,217 free tax returns, generating $6,893,614 million in refunds for Tulare and Kings County residents. Senior Day in the Park Over 1,000 seniors gathered at Mooney Grove Park to enjoy games and activities, and 50 organizations provided valuable resources and information to support local residents. Make a Difference Day On Make a Difference Day, 51 volunteers dedicated their Saturday morning to improving Tulare County. Their efforts positively impacted families and communities across the region.
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A NEW BEGINNING When Jerry arrived at the Visalia Navigation Center (VNC) in January 2025, he had spent three years experiencing homelessness while managing a worsening medical condition. Despite the hardships he faced, he remained determined to rebuild his life and never lost his positive outlook. At the VNC, Jerry found the stability he needed to focus on his health and future. With a safe place to stay, regular meals and support from staff, he was connected to medical providers and began receiving consistent care. As his health improved, so did his confidence and hope for what lay ahead.
I never thought I would be here, but the VNC gave me hope again. They believed in me and helped me get my life back.
Recognizing his commitment, the VNC team helped Jerry enroll in the Housing Disability Assistance Program (HDAP) and guided him through the process of applying for disability benefits. Throughout his time at the center, Jerry became known for his optimism and encouragement, inspiring both staff and fellow participants. In September 2025, Jerry was selected for one of four permanent supportive housing units at Sequoia Village. On October 1, he moved into his own apartment, ending three years of homelessness and beginning a new chapter of stability and independence. Today, Jerry is thriving. He continues to manage his health, takes pride in caring for his home, and enjoys the comfort and security of permanent housing. Reflecting on his journey, Jerry shared, “I never thought I’d be here. The VNC gave me hope again. They believed in me and helped me get my life back.” 12
INCOME
$4,719,946
Contracts & Grants
ASSETS
$3,752,581 $50,475 $517,790 $18,346,885
Cash Receivables Prepaid Expenses Property & Equipment (net of Accumulated Depreciation)
TOTAL
$4,719,946 $27,387,677
Total Income Total Assets
LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS
$6,603,065 $10,096,156 $9,845,977 $842,479
Current Liabilities Noncurrent Liabilities Net Assets Without Donor Restrictions Net Assets With Donor Restrictions
TOTAL
$16,699,221 $10,688,456 $27,387,677
Total Liabilities Total Net Assets Total Liabilities & Net Assets
FUNCTIONAL EXPENDITURES
$32,029,161 $4,062,735 $36,091,896
Program Services Management & General Total Expenses
FINANCIAL REVIEW —
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312 NW 3RD AVE. VISALIA, CA 93291 559.732.4194 | WWW.CSET.ORG