Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. has announced the Colton Lions Club as the recipient of the 2026 Fifth District Nonprofit of the Year Award, marking the first year this recognition has been awarded to honor outstanding nonprofit service throughout the Fifth District.
The Nonprofit of the Year recognition was established this year to highlight organizations whose commitment, compassion, and community impact strengthen neighborhoods and improve quality of life for residents across the Fifth District. This inaugural year included nominations from communities throughout the district, showcasing the vital role nonprofits play in meeting local needs and uplifting residents.
Founded as part of Lions International—an organization established in 1917 and expanded internationally in 1920—the Colton Lions Club carries forward a century-long legacy of service rooted in compassion, civic responsibility, and community impact. Since reestablishing in Colton in 2019, the Club has remained dedicated to the Lions’ enduring mission of improving health and well-being, strengthening communities, and supporting those in need.
Guided by the motto “Lions Serve,” the Colton Lions Club leads and supports a wide range of initiatives, including free vision clinics and eyeglass giveaways, homeless food drives, holiday care packages and toy drives, back-to-school backpack distributions, community clean-ups, and youth programs such as the Student Speaker Contest. The Club also partners with local and regional organizations to support efforts like Relay For Life and Ronald McDonald House, while providing hands-on assistance to residents and families throughout the community.
“This first-ever Nonprofit of the Year recognition is about honoring organizations that consistently show up for our communities,” said Supervisor Baca. “The Colton Lions Club exemplifies what it means to serve with heart, dedication, and purpose, and their impact can be felt across Colton and the Fifth District.”
Supervisor Baca emphasized that the creation of this annual recognition reflects commitment to uplifting nonprofits that serve as trusted partners and essential pillars within the community.