Assemblymember Diane Papan Names Leadership Council San Mateo County as 2026 Nonprofit of the Year

• David Burruto
• District Director
• 650-349-2200
• [email protected]

SACRAMENTO, CA - Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) has named Leadership Council San Mateo County as the 2026 Nonprofit of the Year for the 21st Assembly District. The organization was honored at the California Nonprofits Day celebration at the State Capitol on May 20, 2026, alongside other distinguished nonprofits from across California.

Hosted annually by the California Association of Nonprofits in partnership with state leaders, the Nonprofit of the Year program recognizes organizations that demonstrate outstanding service, innovation, and impact in their communities.

Founded in 2020, Leadership Council San Mateo County has quickly become a cornerstone of civic and professional leadership development in the region. Through immersive programs, cross-sector collaboration, and community engagement initiatives, the organization connects, inspires, and educates emerging and established leaders from business, government, and nonprofit sectors to address the county's most pressing challenges.

"By bringing together leaders from across sectors and backgrounds, Leadership Council San Mateo County is strengthening our civic fabric and preparing the next generation of changemakers to tackle the challenges facing San Mateo County," said Assemblymember Papan.

Leadership Council San Mateo County focuses on building a diverse and inclusive leadership pipeline, equipping participants with the civic knowledge, relationships, and skills needed to drive meaningful change. Through its programs and alumni network, the organization has strengthened collaboration across sectors and empowered leaders to make a measurable impact in communities throughout San Mateo County.

"We are honored and grateful to Assemblymember Papan for this recognition," said Kaarin Hardy and Margi Power, Leadership Council SMC Co-Presidents, in a joint statement. "It reflects the collective effort of a growing community of leaders who believe that our most complex challenges are solved together. At Leadership Council SMC, we strengthen leaders and foster public-private relationships to spark innovation, and our impact reinforces what's possible when we invest in people and partnerships."

The California Nonprofits Day celebration highlights the vital role nonprofits play in strengthening communities and driving economic and social progress across the state. Each legislator selects a nonprofit from their district to be honored for its contributions and achievements.

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