Helen McAlary | CL&C Executive Director
Welcome
Today, our agency comes together once again to Connect, Lead, and Collaborate. Our theme, CULTIVATE, reflects the ongoing work we do to nurture growth within ourselves, our teams, and the community we serve. Today we will cultivate ideas through fresh strategies and innovative practices; we will cultivate connections by building empathy and strengthening relationships with each other; and we will cultivate excellence, by learning from one another and celebrating the extraordinary work happening in every corner of our CL&C agency. Each of our departments, Housing Services, Museum, Arts & Culture, Ontario City Library, and Recreation & Community Services, plays a vital role in cultivating the premier community of the Inland Empire. Your dedication and creativity ensure that our departments do more than just deliver services, you make our community thrive.
A special thank you to the CL&C Con Steering Committee for cultivating this event with their vision and execution. Their efforts have created a space where connection, leadership, collaboration, and inspiration flourish. Welcome to CL&C Con 2025, let’s cultivate together!
2025 CLC Con Steering Committee
Special thanks to subcomittee teams whom this would not be possible without.
Briana Ochoa Joss Seres
Maria Munoz Nelva Costello
John Adams
Rebecca Ustrell
Fabian Debora | Artist & Founder of Homeboy Art Academy
Fabian Debora is an accomplished artist, educator, and community advocate, deeply influenced by his Chicano heritage and dedication to social causes. Born in El Paso, Texas, he began his artistic journey in 1995 with the East Los Angeles Streetscapers, training under notable Chicano muralists. His creative range spans graffiti, murals, and fine art painting, with exhibitions across the U.S. and Latin America.
His career reflects his commitment to service and mentorship. For over ten years, Fabian worked at Homeboy Industries, counseling individuals and overseeing substance abuse services. He later became Community Connection Director at the Arts for Incarcerated Youth Network and a teaching artist for ACTA, bringing arts education to incarcerated adults. These experiences shaped his mission to use art as a means of empowerment and healing.
Through the Homeboy Art Academy, which he founded, Fabian supports marginalized communities with artistic and personal development opportunities. His work has earned numerous awards, including the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellowship, reflecting his impact as both an artist and a community leader.
His practice is a powerful example of how art can be a transformative tool for personal growth and social change.
Eva Rose | Professional Development Coach & Consultant
Eva Rose is a distinguished coach and trainer with extensive experience across the City of Ontario’s agencies and departments. She offers speed coaching, 10-week one-on-one programs, and various training sessions, including for the Community Life & Culture Leads Program. Renowned for her impactful and inspiring approach, Eva excels in delivering constructive feedback while fostering personal growth. Her commitment to helping others is reflected in her consistent billing rate for over 14 years. Her exceptional ability to connect with people and her stellar reputation make her a soughtafter expert in her field.
Priya Sodha | Founder & CEO of Innergem
Priya Sodha is the CEO & Founder of Innergem, a coaching & training company focused on empowering individuals & teams to re-imagine work. She holds her Masters in Organization Change from The New School, in NYC & her Yoga & Mindfulness certificate from Yoga Alliance. Priya currently facilitates trainings for multiple departments within the City of Ontario & most recently spoke at CPRS & for the several cities in the SoCal area.
In addition to facilitation & coaching, Priya is a yoga instructor & has found passion in supporting individuals to find more peace at work, through mindfulness exercises proven to reduce stress & anxiety. Most recently, she became a new mom in November to her daughter Layla Joy.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM
AM
AM
Recreation
Registration
Housing, Library, Museum, Arts & Culture
Registration
Vendors & Activations
Speaker, Vendor, & VIP
Registration
Information
Photobooth
EXHIBIT HALL B CAFE
PARKING
10:15 AM
100A
INSTALLING ARTWORK 101: INTRO TO HANGING ARTWORK IN YOUR HOME
Samantha Herrera & Fernando Lopez
Gain insight into installing artwork at our Museum and learn how to prepare your art for hanging in your own home. Understand the tools you may need—and even pick up a bit of math to get the job done right.
100B
PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS
103
HEART OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AT THE ONTARIO FIRE DEPARTMENT
Julia Carney & Jackie Sandoval
Step behind the scenes with the Ontario Fire Department’s Community Engagement team and discover how they bring fire service to life beyond the emergency. From large-scale events to youth programs and safety campaigns, learn how this team sparks connection, trust, and community pride. Hear about their day-to-day work, proudest accomplishments, and goals for the future.
104B
TOTAL TEAMWORK! A HANDS-ON TEAMWORK & PROBLEM-SOLVING EXPERIENCE
Robyn Hockenhull, Cecy Morales, Estefania Ruelas, Nevaeh Sanchez, & Jalal Johnson
Unlock the power of collaboration in this interactive workshop designed to build stronger teams and sharper problem-solving skills. Through engaging challenges and group activities, you will practice effective communication, creative thinking and strategic decision-making. Come ready to interact, contribute, and grow!
105
RISE
Allison Bridgewater & Jana Waitman
Introducing Rise, the library’s new literacy service for children and adults that’s turning learners into leaders and readers into achievers. Join us to find out how your department can jump on the bookwagon, and help take this rising service to the next level!
106
WONDERFUL ONENOTE
Shawn Thrasher
Learn how to use OneNote to efficiently track tasks, manage meeting notes and organize supervisory documentation. A quick, practical overview to boost your productivity.
Christopher Ponce 106
LEARNING HOW TO THRIVE! WHEN YOU HAVE BEEN CONDITIONED TO SURVIVE
Discover how intentional leadership can foster growth, deepen self-awareness, and create inclusive opportunities where everyone has the chance to truly THRIVE.
Exhibit Hall B
WINNING STRATEGIES FOR PUBLIC SECTOR INTERVIEWS
Lupe Iglesias
Interviews don’t have to be daunting. Get advice from our Human Resource professionals on how to prepare for an interview and get tips on how to provide in-depth responses to sample interview questions.
Café
RESUME REVIEW
HR
Reviewers will provide personalized feedback on your resume, offering tips on highlighting your strengths, optimizing your format and standing out. Whether you’re working to promote or want to keep your resume polished, this session will give you valuable insights to help you present your best self on paper.
103
AI IN ACTION: THE CITY’S 3-YEAR VISION FOR SMARTER SERVICES AND INNOVATION
Ria Pavia & Toni McNaughton
Join us for an overview of the City’s 3-year plan for AI—designed to support innovation, enhance services, and improve how we work. Hear about key initiatives, explore the potential of AI across departments and see how emerging technologies can help staff work smarter and more efficiently.
104B
LEADING THE CONVERSATION WITH EMPATHY
Cristina Rodriguez
Join us for an insightful session on compassionately and effectively engaging with our unhoused neighbors. Through real-world examples and practical communication strategies, you’ll learn how to approach interactions with empathy, build trust and foster dignity.
105
11:00 AM
IMPORTANCE OF THE PROCUREMENT CYCLE AND CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENTS
Angie Mora
Gain a comprehensive overview of the procurement cycle and contractual agreements to promote efficient, transparent and compliant purchasing. Learn each phase of procurement while gaining a clear understanding of critical contract components such as terms, liability and risk management. Leave equipped to support financial accountability, manage vendor relationships and enhance city operations through effective procurement practices.
100B
HEADSHOTS
ONE BOOK, ONE ONTARIO: EXPLORING COMMUNITY THROUGH YOUR HOUSE WILL PAY
Starla Villalba
Dive into the 2025 One Book, One Ontario selection, Your House Will Pay by Steph Cha—a gripping novel that explores race, justice, and the power of community reckoning. Whether you’ve read the book or not, this presentation offers powerful insights into how storytelling can bridge divides and spark deeper understanding in the communities we serve.
ANIME AND THE ADULT AUDIENCE
Natasha Dennis 105
Anime and manga aren’t just for kids—they’re powerful, diverse storytelling mediums that resonate deeply with audiences of all ages. Despite this, adults may wonder where exactly they fit into such a youth-driven community. By exploring the evolving landscape of the anime fandom, learn ways adults can get involved with the community, particularly through programs and how to dive into selecting anime and manga for collections. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer, discover why anime isn’t just something you grow out of—it’s something you grow with.
11:45 AM
100A
WHAT’S IN THE HISTORY ROOM? A STAFF INTRODUCTION
Olivia Vallejo
THRIVING AT WORK AND IN AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE
Eva Rose 106
Thriving at work today — and tomorrow. Discover how to tap into powerful psychological skills like resilience and adaptability to stay strong, balanced, and prepared for whatever the future holds.
Exhibit Hall B
CREATIVE AF: AMBITION & FAILING UP
Joss Seres, Arby Sabino, Steven Arechiga, & Anayissa Rebollo
Trying to start a creative career but not sure where to begin? You’re not alone. This moderated panel is built for aspiring creatives who want real talk - not highlight reels. Hear how ambition, resilience, and a few faceplants helped shape their journeys, and get practical advice on navigating your own. Whether you’re taking your first step or figuring out your next one, this is your chance to hear what actually works (and what doesn’t) when building a creative life.
Explore the hidden treasures of the Ontario City Library’s Model Colony History Room. From yearbooks and historic property surveys to street maps, photographs, and carefully curated clipping files, discover how these valuable local resources can support your work and deepen your connection to the community.
100B
PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS
RESUME REVIEW
YOUR 457 PLAN: A SMART PATH TO RETIREMENT
Bob Tan 103
New to the world of retirement savings? You’re not alone! This session will introduce you to the basics of a 457 deferred compensation plan — what it is, how it works and why starting early can make a big difference down the road. Learn how to start contributing, what it means for your paycheck, and how your future self will thank you for taking action today.
104B
THE INTROVERT’S GUIDE TO SURVIVING IN THE WORKPLACE
Ashley Luna & Ashley Powers
Watch as two socially awkward and anxious individuals conquer their worst nightmare of public speaking in the hopes of connecting with like-minded introverts. Learn their tips & tricks for surviving in the workplace.
FROM STRATEGY TO ACTION: CONNECTING YOUR WORK TO CLC’S MISSION
Lacey Rightmer & Mable Kong
What do “agency strategic objectives” really mean for your day-to-day work? Learn how CLC’s Strategic Plan breaks down into clear, practical terms. Discover how your programs, proposals and projects connect to agency goals—and why that connection matters. Aligning with strategic objectives adds purpose, direction and impact to everything you do.
Exhibit Hall B
THE CAREER-CHANGING POWER OF MENTORSHIP
Danielle Guevara & Marina Medina
Want to explore the profound impact mentorship can have from both a mentor’s and mentee’s perspective? Learn how to cultivate essential skills and unlock new opportunities by fostering a strong mentor-mentee relationship. .
Discover how intentional leadership can foster growth, deepen self-awareness, and create inclusive opportunities where everyone has the chance to truly THRIVE EMPOWERING YOUTH THROUGH
Exhibit Hall B
Edward Joseph Lopez, Nicole Natividad, & Mireya Moreno
1:45 PM
100A
FROM HELLO TO LET’S GO: BUILDING BOLD PARTNERSHIPS
Cynthia Nuño 106
Building meaningful partnerships with outside organizations can expand your organization’s reach and strengthen community impact, but where do you start? Learn how to identify organizations that align with your values and goals, keep your messaging concise and compelling and leverage tools for seamless networking.
RESUME REVIEW Café HR
KNOWING YOUR ABCS: ALWAYS BE COMMUNICATING
Amber Melara & Jenny Gomez
Communication plays a vital role in building trust, fostering inclusion and promoting engagement. Explore effective strategies for collaboration, service delivery and public outreach, while gaining tools to tailor messages to diverse audiences. Whether managing programs, leading teams or connecting with the community, you’ll become equipped to navigate communication challenges and strengthen your impact.
100B
PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS
EMPATHY: THE SILENT SUPERPOWER
Monique De Haro
Ever wondered about what one of the most important superpowers you can have in public service is? Well look no further, because you will discover how empathy can become our biggest superpower in the workplace. Dive into how empathy can transform the workplace, what it looks like, and most importantly, why it matters. Whether you’re a seasoned or new staff, this session will help us all become better leaders and public servants for our community!
106
WALK A MILE IN THEIR BOOTS: VETERANS ROLEPLAY TRAINING
John Carlo Encarnacion
Step into the boots of a military veteran! Experience some of the challenges veterans face when navigating Veterans Affairs benefits during their transition into civilian life. Build empathy and a deeper understanding of veterans’ experiences to bridge the civilian-military gap in the workplace or the community.
Exhibit Hall B
9 HOURS IN MY WORK SHOES
PREPPING FOR A PROMOTION! RESUME AND INTERVIEWING TIPS
Joey Lemus 104B
Learn how to stand out in today’s job market: tips on creating a winning application, discover where to find new opportunities, understand the value of staying proactive and make a strong impression with confident interview skills and professional attire.
105
FROM HIATUS TO HOMEWORK
Jerry Jiron
Explore the challenges and opportunities of returning to school after an extended absence. Discover practical strategies, personal insights, and resources to support adult learners in their academic journeys.
RESOURCEFULNESS IS A SUPERPOWER
Ruben Almazan & Alejandra Flores
Things will go wrong, and you must learn not to panic. Instead, use the tools and resources around you to problem-solve on the spot. The more comfortable you are with being uncomfortable, the more opportunities will open up, and the more reliable and resilient you’ll become. Share past experiences where you overcame obstacles to get the results you wanted—and leave inspired to face future challenges with confidence.
Thailin Martin & Amber Cruz
Economic development is more than a profession— it’s a path shaped by passion, purpose and potential. Three team members will share their journeys through Real Estate & Business Development, Marketing, and Administrative Support. Through storytelling and reflection, they’ll explore how their backgrounds and experiences have prepared them to contribute meaningfully to the agency’s mission.
2:30 PM
100A
MODEL COLONY HISTORY ROOM: ARCHIVES AND BEYOND
Maribella Cantú & Natasha Dennis
Did you know the Ontario City Library has a local history room? The Model Colony History Room preserves our city’s rich past and present. Learn about the behind-the-scenes preservation work of local history room staff that makes historical materials available for years to come.
MAKE YOUR OWN MINI MUSEUM
Oscar Guerrero
The Museum’s Education department provides diverse art workshop programs for the community. Experience it for yourself by tapping into your creativity to design your own mini-museum shadow box! Reflect on your experiences and choose meaningful elements from your life to memorialize, honor and manifest through drawing, collage, and sculpture as you design a unique mini-museum.
Exhibit Hall B
BREATH, STRETCH, DE-STRESS: SIMPLE TOOLS FOR EVERYDAY CALM
Priya Sodha
Need a quick reset during your day? This all-level session delivers easy, accessible tools to help you manage stress, boost energy, and feel more grounded. You’ll learn mindful breathing, chair yoga stretches, and real-time strategies that fit into any schedule—no experience or special gear required. Come as you are, leave refreshed.
THE POWER OF POLISH
Erica Cordts
Networking is an essential skill that many professionals are told is the key to personal and professional growth. But how often are you taught precisely how to network? Learn how to listen actively, the conversation styles that create the best connections, and how your personal experiences can influence the professional network you build.
3:15 PM
100A
FROM PHONICS TO FLUENCY: ELEMENTARY LITERACY AT THE LIBRARY
Isabel Bartolome-Thai & Allison Bridgewater
KEEPING UP WITH HOUSING SERVICES DEPARTMENT (HSD) SYMBA
What’s new in HSD Homeless Services? The City of Ontario has partnered with the Symba Center to manage the access center. Join us to meet the Symba Center team and learn more about their services.
106
HAVING FUN AND TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IN THE WORKPLACE
Jordan Wilson, Heavyn Johnson, & Gabriel Servin
Join us to explore how laughter and leadership go hand in hand. Discover how a fun, positive work environment can boost morale, strengthen teamwork and enhance productivity. Gain practical strategies to balance professionalism with playfulness—fostering a culture where employees feel motivated, valued and engaged.
By fourth grade, kids are expected to leap from learning to read to reading to learn—but for those still struggling with basic phonics, that leap can feel more like a cliff. Learn how staff at Ontario City Library built a brand-new elementary literacy service from the ground up. The result? A fun, supportive learning experience that helps young readers gain skills, confidence and maybe even a love of reading.
103
INTRODUCTION TO FINANCE
Claudia Hernandez & Evan Erickson
Ever wonder how city budgets really work? Dive into the basics of government finance in this beginnerfriendly session. From budgeting to accounting, we’ll break down how cities manage money and keep things running—no finance degree required! .
104B
A CAP, A GOWN, AND A LIBRARY CARD!
Jana Waitman
Ever wish you could go back to high school – minus the awkward group projects and questionable lunch menus? Now you can, thanks to Career Online High School through the Ontario City Library! Find out how it works, who’s eligible, and how to promote this amazing program to our community. It’s never too late to graduate — especially when there are no pop quizzes or P.E. involved!
104B
READER’S ADVISORY: WHY LIBRARIANS ASK 50 FOLLOW UP QUESTIONS
Alexis Kellicutt & John Carlo Encarnacion
Have you ever asked for a book recommendation at the library? Join us to learn how we navigate recommending books that you’ll love!
105
DID YOU KNOW ABOUT...
Michelle Sifuentes, Amanda Foster, Alcira Mendoza & Kaina Bernal
Within the museum walls, a vast collection of artifacts helps tell the story of our city. From a Grape brick produced to skirt Prohibition laws, to the dozens of blooming flower species hybridized by Armstrong Nursery, to the design of Jasper the Ant, mascot of the All-State Picnic, and Ontario Motor Speedway home of Cal Jam, where Ozzy Osborne took the stage. Join the Museum’s Collections Division as they discuss this hidden history with gems from the collection.
UNLOCK THE SECRETS TO SECURING FIELD SPACE: A HANDS-ON WORKSHOP
Jenny Gomez & Ivanna Munoz
Join us as we dive into the critical policies that guide field space applications. In this interactive session, you’ll understand the process clearly and walk away with the tools you need to navigate and apply for the space you need successfully. Don’t miss out on mastering these key strategies!
105 4:00 PM
103
MEET THE COAST TEAM
COAST TEAM
Join us for an informative session about the Ontario Police’s Community Outreach and Support Team (COAST) and their collaboration with community partners to address mental health crises. The County Social Worker, Monique Asfall, will also share strategies for promoting mental health awareness and creating a healthier workplace. This multifaceted team is comprised of a Corporal from the Ontario Police Department, a social worker with the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health, a Firefighter from the Ontario Fire Department and his support dog “Mac”.
104B
INTEGRATING MINDFULNESS IN YOUR COMMUNITY GATHERINGS
Guadalupe Almaguer-Vallejo & Miriam Valle-Mancilla
Relax and take a break with the Museum using mindful art techniques and breathing exercises. Learn how to incorporate these tools in your group gatherings. Then, create your own zine booklet to take home!
105
PRINT IS NOT DEAD: HOW THE ONTARIO ART BOOK FAIR CREATED A THIRD SPACE FOR OUR COMMUNITY
Rebecca Ustrell
Now more than ever, community members rely on us to create spaces for multi-generational connection. Hear how the first ever Ontario Art Book Fair shaped a new environment for artists to reconnect to the Ontario community through printmaking, zines and art books. Learn how cross departmental collaboration between the Library and Museum, Arts & Culture diversified programming with external partners.
106
GREENLIGHT YOUR EVENT: A REVIEW OF THE TUP APPLICATION PROCESS
Kayleen Fuentes & Christopher Ponce
Planning a special event in Ontario involves a structured process designed to ensure safety, compliance, and collaboration with several departments. Join us to understand the Special Events Permit process, application timeline, required documents, approval process, fees and payment process, coordination with other City Departments and best practices.
Exhibit Hall B
DREAM JOB RESUME WORKSHOP
Ivanna Munoz, Mayra Villasenor, & Ashley Powers
Practice your resume editing skills in a stress-free environment. It’s time to apply for your dream job! Think about the skills and experience you’d want to showcase on your resume. Try this fun interactive exercise and refine your resume to impress the interview panel. Remember to dream big, write smart, and be confident in yourself— your next opportunity starts here!
4:30 PM CLOSING
Exhibit Hall B
Keynote Speaker Sponsor
Print Sponsor
& Special Thanks to the following who helped cultivate possibility
Steven Arechiga
Natalie Avina-Lopez
Tabitha Buckner
Fernanda Castillo
Kristin Delgadillo
Marisol Garrafa-Sanchez
Oscar Guerrero
Paula Huerta
Cristian Magana
Leslie Morales
Aracely Muñoz
Michelle Muñoz
Alena Pastores
Nicole Phillips
Anayissa Rebollo
Cristina Rodriguez
Mariah Ruiz
Arby Sabino
Stevie Venegas
Susan Villa
Starla Villaba
Melissa Williams