January 3, 2025 – As we leave behind 2024 and look forward to 2025, several nonprofit organizations throughout Clovis are embracing new changes to better serve our communities. While some organizations are excited for upcoming events and other changes, others are focused on continuing their mission to uplift our community.
Clovis Veterans Memorial District
The Clovis Veterans Memorial District (CVMD) is looking back on a bright year full of cherished memories and traditions as they continue to support our veteran community here in the Central Valley. Through honoring, educating, and inspiring, they hope to display their gratitude for each and every veteran and welcome their loved ones into the community for years to come.
In 2024, CVMD celebrated an 85% success rate for veteran job placement and retention through their veteran-centered career events. Among other accomplishments, they were thrilled to welcome over 4,000 visitors to their center.
This year, the district is especially looking forward to The Wall That Heals, an exhibit that will be coming to Clovis between October 8-12 to honor the Vietnam War veterans who died in action, for the 50th anniversary of the war.
They are also excited for the Best of the West Army All Star Game happening on January 25th, a football game bringing together veterans and community members from all over to celebrate service and sacrifice, as well as the Sweethearts Dance on February 2nd and the Clovis Hall of Fame Awards Banquet on February 26th.
Breaking the Chains
A local nonprofit organization centered on rescuing and providing rehabilitation for survivors of human trafficking is gearing up for a January full of events to provide awareness about the tragic realities involved with human trafficking.
January is National Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a nationwide occurrence to raise awareness of the tragic realities of slavery and human trafficking around the world and prevent individuals from becoming victims. Breaking the Chains (BTC) is organizing several events to support their mission in combating these issues.
The organization shared that they are immensely grateful to those who have contributed to this cause in 2024 and years past, especially the law enforcement partners that have worked hand-in-hand with Breaking the Chains (BTC) to save the individuals stuck in human trafficking.
Going forward, they plan to take to the streets of Clovis on January 21st for the Pledge to Stop Trafficking, a collaborative effort to increase awareness regarding human trafficking. They are asking for volunteers for this event happening between 7-9AM at the intersection of Shaw and Clovis Avenue.
Those interested in volunteering can sign up at www.P2ST.org. There are also locations available for those wanting to participate in Fresno, Madera, or Kerman.
BTC is also preparing for their springtime banquet to increase funding for the organization through the generous contributions of donors. Those interested in attending or supporting BTC are invited to follow them on social media at Breaking the Chains on Facebook or @breakingthechainsfresno on Instagram.
Wreaths Across America
Our local chapter organization for Wreaths Across America celebrated a momentous and well-attended event on December 14th of 2024. Community members showed up in multitudes on a cold morning to place wreaths on the graves of veterans at Clovis Cemetery, Red Bank Cemetery, Academy Cemetery, as well as other locations throughout Clovis and the United States.
Despite the cold morning and the heavy rainfall predicted in the weather forecast, hundreds of Clovis residents woke up to display their honor for the veterans who had given their lives in service of our nation.
They stayed to place wreaths on the graves of veterans throughout the morning, even after a delayed ceremony due to technical difficulties.
The organization hopes for another successful year, encouraging anyone who wishes to honor a local veteran to contribute towards their cause. Local co-coordinator Linda Branam shared that any donations given through January 17th will be matched by the nationwide organization, so contributions given at this time are significantly important.
If you’re looking for an organization to support through volunteering or contributions this year, you don’t have to look far. These and many other nonprofits in Clovis would greatly benefit from the support of community residents like you. Your support not only helps these organizations thrive but also makes a meaningful impact on our entire community.