News | Price Philanthropies

Cardinals Interact Alum Victor Alvarado Pays It Forward Through Youth and Community Services

June 23, 2026

Cardinals Interact alum Victor Alvarado has dedicated his career to creating opportunities for youth and families in communities like the one that shaped him. Growing up in City Heights, Alvarado credits the program with expanding his perspective, building his confidence, and inspiring his passion for community service. Today, as Youth & Senior Services Manager at Casa Familiar, he leads programs that connect children, families, and older adults with the resources and support they need to thrive while continuing to pay forward the mentorship that helped shape his own journey.

Heroes

City Heights Hero and Community Champion: Celebrating Rosario Martinez Iannacone

June 23, 2026

Rosario Martinez Iannacone’s 35-year journey with Price Philanthropies has been defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the City Heights community. From her early days as an Aaron Price Fellows facilitator to roles spanning community engagement, grantmaking, and neighborhood initiatives, she has helped strengthen programs and partnerships that continue to impact generations of families. In this special farewell interview, Martinez Iannacone reflects on the mentors, memories, and community that shaped her remarkable career as she begins her next chapter.

News

A Vision for Families: Celebrating the Opening of The Teralta in City Heights

April 16, 2026

The grand opening of The Teralta marks a major milestone for affordable housing in City Heights, transforming a historic neighborhood landmark into a vibrant mixed-use community for families. Developed through a partnership between Wakeland Housing and Price Philanthropies Foundation, the $71 million project provides affordable three- and four-bedroom homes while preserving the character of the former Superior Furniture Co. building. The celebration highlighted the power of collaboration in expanding housing opportunities and strengthening the City Heights community.

News

City Heights Hero Julian Villegas on His Journey from Immigrant Roots to Community Leadership

April 14, 2026

Julian Villegas’ journey from immigrating to the United States as a teenager to becoming a community leader reflects a lifelong commitment to service and belonging. Through leadership roles at the YMCA, including the Copley-Price Family YMCA in City Heights, Villegas has helped expand opportunities for youth, families, and older adults while strengthening partnerships across the region. In this interview, he reflects on the power of community collaboration, the resilience of City Heights, and the values that continue to guide his work.

Highlights

Aaron Price Fellow Alum Alicia Yancey On Empowering Student Leaders

April 1, 2026

Aaron Price Fellow alum Alicia Yancey has dedicated her career to empowering student leaders and advancing advocacy across California’s public higher education system. A Lincoln High School graduate, Yancey credits the Aaron Price Fellows Program with expanding her perspective, strengthening her confidence, and introducing her to a lifelong community of mentors. Now serving as Organizing Director for the UC Student Association, she reflects on the experiences that shaped her leadership journey and her passion for helping students create meaningful change.

Highlights

Cardinals Interact Alum Sonya Vargas’ First-Gen Path from Hoover High to Environmental Leadership

December 23, 2025

Sonya Vargas Lima’s path from Hoover High School to a career in environmental science highlights the impact of mentorship and opportunity. A Cardinals Interact alum and first-generation college graduate, she built her career through internships, community programs, and hands-on fieldwork. Now a Senior Biologist, Vargas Lima reflects on how Cardinals Interact helped shape her confidence, career direction, and commitment to supporting future generations.

Heroes

City Heights Hero Rene Uribe Gives Back to the Community That Raised Him

December 23, 2025

Rene Uribe’s connection to City Heights runs deep. Raised in the neighborhood and shaped by local schools and youth programs, Uribe has chosen to give back to the community that helped guide his path. Now serving as Sous Chef at Mama’s Kitchen, he supports City Heights and San Diego families through nutritional care, volunteer service, and community advocacy. In this interview, Uribe reflects on growing up in City Heights, his journey into leadership, and the values that continue to drive his commitment to serving others.

Heroes

City Heights Hero Mark Kassab Proves Small Beginnings Can Lead to Big Impact

October 27, 2025

Mark Kassab’s journey from humble beginnings to community leadership reflects a lifetime of hard work, generosity, and dedication. After arriving in San Diego from Iraq in 1977 with just $5, Kassab became a cornerstone of the City Heights community through his family-owned grocery stores. For more than four decades, he has championed access to food, education, and youth opportunities, from donating thousands of books to supporting local sports teams and neighborhood events. In this feature, Kassab shares reflections on his lifelong commitment to giving back, the partnerships that have shaped his work, and the pride he takes in helping City Heights families thrive.

Highlights, News

Prebys Foundation, Price Philanthropies and San Diego Foundation Lead $70M Response to Protect Local Families Amid Historic Cuts in Services

September 25, 2025

San Diego’s largest foundations – Prebys Foundation, Price Philanthropies and San Diego Foundation – together with the Price family, today announced they have formed “United for San Diego” and increased their annual giving by $70 million. The funders are coordinating their efforts to make the biggest impact, helping safeguard access to food, housing and healthcare, as historic funding cuts take effect.

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City Heights Swim Center Expands Access with Grant from Price Philanthropies

July 22, 2025

The City Heights Swim Center is diving into a new chapter of community wellness, thanks to a $335,200 grant from Price Philanthropies Foundation. Approved by the San Diego City Council, the funding expands free summer access to seven days a week and adds lifeguards, fitness classes, and youth programs. With a focus on equity and safety, the initiative aims to serve thousands of local residents, especially youth, through increased swim lessons, recreational opportunities, and critical drowning prevention resources.