Follow Your Passion. Pick Your Nonprofit.

The Pick Group is a diverse network of young professionals committed to growing as leaders and giving back to their community. One of the ways we do this is through our Board Development Training Program (BDTP)—a seven-month series (January–July) that prepares young professionals to serve confidently on nonprofit boards in Riverside.

Led by community leaders and subject-matter experts, the program covers Governance, Financial Responsibilities, Strategic Planning, Marketing, Board Recruitment, Legal Issues, and Fundraising.

Program Highlights:

• Build the skills needed to be an effective board member

• Learn directly from experienced community leaders

• Make an impact by supporting Riverside nonprofits

💡 Cost: $75 for Pick members | $100 for non-members
👉 Become a member and save today! Join here

📅 Apply for the Class of 2026! Submit your application to bdtp@pickriverside.org by December 19, 2025.

Get ready for a tropical twist on holiday cheer! Join us for the annual Pick Group Holiday Mixer on the stunning Amenity Terrace at the Imperial Hardware Lofts, offering a spectacular view of Downtown Riverside.

Escape the cold and step into a festive holiday evning with Pick Group! Our theme this year is "Tiki Holiday." Pull out your best holiday-themed Hawaiian shirt, flowery lei, vintage tropical dress, or any festive attire that brings the beach to December!

Event Details

• Date: Friday, December 12th

• Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Location: Imperial Hardware Lofts (Amenity Terrace)

  • Address: 3750 Main St, Riverside, CA 92501

• Theme: Tiki Holiday (Get ready to mele kalikimaka in style!)

• Cost: FREE for Members and Non-Members!

Special Thanks to Our Event Sponsor

We are proud to partner with the UCR School of Business for this year's Holiday Mixer!

RSVP is Required!

To ensure we have enough tropical cheer for everyone, please secure your spot by clicking the link below.

We can't wait to celebrate the holidays with you!

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with claudia valdez at cu.valdez0412@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Pick Power Hour – Featuring Sharon Morris, Managing Director, Voices for Children

Join us for Pick Power Hour, where Riverside’s community comes together to connect, learn, and grow.
Our featured speaker, Sharon Morris, leads Voices for Children (VFC), a nonprofit partnered with the Superior Court that empowers volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) for youth in foster care.

Originally from England, Sharon began her U.S. career with Sony Online Entertainment before volunteering as a CASA for five years. She now oversees Riverside County’s VFC division, managing 19 staff members and supporting over 400 volunteers who advocate for 725+ youth.

During this session, Sharon will share insights on:

    •    The power of mentoring and how guidance can shape both careers and communities.

    •    Tips and tricks for young professionals navigating their personal and professional journeys.

    •    Building purpose-driven leadership, and leading with empathy and impact.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, November 18
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location:Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, 3985 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92501

🍴 Refreshments & light appetizers provided

Cost:

• Free for Members

• $10 for Non-Members — (Purchase Ticket Here)

(Want to save? Become a Pick Member today!)

Special Thanks

Thank you to our event sponsor, Altura Credit Union, for helping make this Pick Power Hour possible! Your support empowers young professionals to connect, develop, and make an impact across Riverside.

🎁 Pick Group Holiday Gift Drive: Support Local Youth

We are pleased to partner with the Pick Group this year for their Holiday Gift Drive! Your generous contribution will help support youth ages 14–18 (an even mix of male and female youth) in our community.

There are two easy ways to contribute:

• Donate a New Gift: Bring a new, unwrapped gift valued at $25 or more to the event.

• Make a Monetary Donation: Scan the QR code on the event flyer or make a secure monetary contribution through this link: Donate Directly

Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity this holiday season!

Join us for the Riverside Food Drive as we work to provide essential groceries to local families right before the holidays! We need your hands, your time, and your heart to make this effort a success.

Sunday, November 16, 2025

King Arthur Mobile Home Park Clubhouse
(1560 Massachusetts Ave, Riverside, CA 92507)

Volunteer Opportunity

We rely on dedicated volunteers to help us set up and ensure a smooth distribution process. This is a rewarding way to give back to the Riverside community!

• Volunteer Arrival Time: 7:00 AM

• Volunteer Tasks: May include: Setting up tables, sorting and organizing food items, and helping distribute food, and tearing down the event.

Food Distribution Schedule

We aim to serve as many families as possible on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Distribution Start Time: 9:00 AM

• Distribution End Time: The distribution will run until all available food has been handed out to the community.

How to Get Involved

We urgently need volunteers! If you are available to arrive at 7:00 AM and lend a hand, please sign up below.

Your help directly impacts our neighbors in need. Thank you for your support!

🌟 Social events are designed to help young professionals network, build community, and gain valuable connections and resources.

Are you a networking guru who loves to plan events and bring people together? Contact Tiffany Grinkevich to learn how you can get involved and help grow our awesome organization!

📅 Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Brickwood at 7:00PM.

join The Pick Group for a night of delicious food and good conversation at our Friends Giving event.

With a delectable meal catered by James Madison Catering and proudly sponsored by Cal Baptist University, this evening is our chance to slow down, unwind, and celebrate the friendships and connections that enrich our lives. This time is dedicated to gratitude, great food, and raising a glass to great company.

The Gift of Giving: Supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters

This year, our Friendsgiving celebration is also an opportunity to give back to our community. We ask that all guests participate by bringing a $25 unwrapped gift to donate to the Big Brothers Big Sisters Holiday Toy Drive. Your contribution will help make the holidays brighter for a child in need!

We'll provide the refreshing drinks and delicious main entrees. We encourage you to contribute to our collective feast by signing up with us to bring a favorite dish to share here: Sign up to Bring a Side Dish

Come ready to relax, enjoy the bounty, and celbrate the season.

Event Details
🗓 Date: Friday, November 07, 2025
⏰ Time: 6PM - 8PM
📍 Location: The Cookie Tin Cafe, 1485 Spruce Street, Unit O, Riverside, CA 92507
Tickets:

• Members: Free

• Member & Guest: Free

• Non-Member: $10 (Want to save? Become a Pick Member today!)

Limited seats available, so register today!

Thank you to our sponsor!

California Baptist University | Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with claudia valdez at cu.valdez0412@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

🌟 Social events are designed to help young professionals network, build community, and gain valuable connections and resources.

Are you a networking guru who loves to plan events and bring people together? Contact Tiffany Grinkevich to learn how you can get involved and help grow our awesome organization!

📅 Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Brickwood at 7:00PM.

🎉 Celebrating 17 Years of Impact

Since 2008, the Pick Group has been a space where young professionals in Riverside come together to engage civically, develop professionally, and connect socially.

Now, 17 years later, we’re thrilled to honor the individuals who have helped move this mission forward. Join us for an inspiring evening of live music, great food and drinks, as we toast to Riverside’s young professionals and the trailblazers creating lasting IMPACT.

✨ New This Year: We’re proud to celebrate our Board Development Training Program (BDTP) Class of 2025 at Impact — leaders who are already serving or preparing to make meaningful contributions throughout our community.

Impact 2025: A Night of Stars & Changemakers

Date & Time: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | 6:00–8:30 PM
Location: Life Arts Center, Riverside, CA
Tickets: $50 for Members | $75 for Non-Members — Purchase here
Dress Code: Hollywood Glam or Business Professional
📸 See Photos from Past Events: https://www.pickriverside.org/impact-photo-gallery

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with claudia valdez at cu.valdez0412@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Make career connections in a fun, unforgettable way! Join Pick Group of Young Professionals for a night of networking, music, and karaoke.

Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Location: Riverside Food Lab (Meet out front of the Food Lab)

• Free for Pick Members + Members can bring a guest complimentary!

• $10 for Non-Members (Purchase ticket here)

Not a member? Save and Sign up today!

Event Schedule:

• 6:00 – 7:00 PM – New Member Highlights, a lively networking game, and raffle prizes

• 7:00 – 8:30 PM – Karaoke time! Vote for your favorite performance and help crown our karaoke champ (yes, there’s a prize!)

Perks & Prizes:

• Your first drink and appetizers are on us

• Exclusive Pick Group shirts for members

• Sign up as a member during the event and score a Swag Bag

• Win raffle prizes, including two tickets to our annual Impact Awards Dinner and more!

🎶 Don’t miss the mix of music, networking, and fun!

With special thanks to our Event Sponsor: Lee & Associates Commercial Real Estate, Riverside

Are you involved in Riverside civic life? Contact Lindsey German to help get Pick Group a seat at the non-profit, community and government tables. 

Committee meets the 3rd Thursday of the month via Zoom at 12:00pm.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to gain valuable career advice from Geoff Gouveia, as he shares his journey from Artist to Business Owner!

Event Details

📅 Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

📍 Location:

California Baptist University, Career Center

8432 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92504
School of Business, Park Building, Room 120

Pick Power Hour is Free for members | $10 for non-members.

Pick Group Members can bring (1) guest for FREE!

Refreshments will be provided.

FREE Headshots for all attendees!!! Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity!

Also, don’t forget to bring your business cards to network effectively, and business formal attire is encouraged.

About Geoff Gouveia

Geoff Gouveia is a California based muralist and artist inspired by the world’s greatest game and community: futbol. He creates larger than life abstract characters in a plethora of media- from digital to block-long murals. His client list includes Adidas, Coca-Cola, Starbucks, Facebook, Red Bull, Major League Soccer, the Premier League, and La Liga to name a few.

With the recent birth of his daughter, he is currently transitioning to full time business owner of a local coffee shop named after his father, Mikey G’s.

Pick Member Registration Form (FREE)

Are you a networking guru that loves to plan parties and connect people to colleagues and resources? Contact Tiffany Grinkevich to learn how to get involved and help grow our awesome organization!

Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Brickwood at 6:00pm.

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Vanessa Flores at floresvanessa024@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

We’re excited to share an invitation from the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce to attend their upcoming AfterHours Business Mixer: Rhapsody Rendezvous and you're invited as special guests of the Chamber!

Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Location: 3630 University Ave, Riverside, 92501
Admission: Free for Pick Group members

Come connect with some of Riverside’s best professionals, grow your network, and enjoy a great evening of conversation and community! 

Hope to see you there!

You Be You: Unleashing the Power of Your story

With Susan C. Freeman, Award-Winning CEO
📅 Thursday, August 21st
🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Greater Riverside Chamber of Commerce
🍽️ Refreshments Provided
🎟️ This month’s seminar is free for all young professionals in Riverside
✅ Open to all young professionals

About the Event

Learn how to turn your personal story into a powerful tool for leadership, connection, and confidence. Join Susan C. Freeman for an engaging session on storytelling as a professional superpower.

💡 You’ll Learn How To:

• Craft a memorable and authentic story

• Communicate with impact and purpose

• Use storytelling to lead, inspire, and connect

• Reflect on your values and voice as a leader

About the Speaker

Stevie® Award-winning CEO & Founder | PhD Scholar | Antiracist | Keynote Speaker | Podcast Host | Leader in the Fight for Equity | Connector | Mentor | Proud US Navy wife | Prouder US Navy mom

Susan Freeman is a leader in the fight for equity in the workplace. She draws on her experiences as a CEO, academic, trainer, author, sales executive, and business owner. Susan’s passion for equity in business drives her fight for the underrepresented to get a seat at the table, and once there, to be heard and respected. Susan works with clients on systemic changes at the 4P-level (policies, practices, pay, and pipeline), creating a roadmap for change. Everything she does starts with metrics of where the client is and then benchmarking progress.

🌐 freemanmeansbusiness.com

FREE Registration Form

Rooted in Education, Driven by Service: A Conversation with Andrea DeLeon
📅 Wednesday, August 13, 2025
🕕 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Thompson Brewing Company
9900 Indiana Ave #7, Riverside, CA 92503

Join us for an inspiring evening as we hear from Andrea DeLeon, Executive Director of Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful. From 16 years in the classroom to leading citywide beautification efforts, Andrea will share her journey of inspiring change through education, leadership, and a passion for community service.

🎉 Event Perks:
🍺 First drink on us
🍽️ Appetizers included
👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly venue
👥 Pick members: bring a guest free!

🎟️ Admission:
FREE for Pick Group members + guest
$10 for non-members

About Andrea DeLeon
Andrea DeLeon is the Executive Director of Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful, bringing a deep commitment to community service and education. A proud native of El Monte, Andrea earned her Bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly Pomona and a Master’s degree from Loyola Marymount University.

Before stepping into her current leadership role, Andrea spent 16 years as an educator, shaping the lives of students and building strong ties within the community. She and her spouse, Fred, enjoy life between Riverside and Santa Barbara. Together, they have a blended family that includes six children.

Pick Member Registration

Are you a networking guru that loves to plan parties and connect people to colleagues and resources? Contact Tiffany Grinkevich to learn how to get involved and help grow our awesome organization!

Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Brickwood at 6:00pm.

Pick Group of Young Professionals 90’s Themed Pub Crawl 🍻

Sponsored by Altura Credit Union

Join us for a throwback night of networking and nostalgia at our 90’s Themed Pub Crawl! Whether you’re rocking denim-on-denim or your favorite band tee, get ready for good vibes, great drinks, and even better company.

🗓 Saturday, August 9, 2025

🕓 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

📍 Meet at The Brickwood at 4:00 PM

➡️ Head to the ultra-cool, hush-hush Room 77 by 5:00 PM

🎯 We’ll wrap up the evening at the fabulous Killer Queens Social House

🎟 Free for Pick Group members | $25 for non-members

🍹 Includes (3) drink tickets + light snacks

Space is limited, so grab your scrunchies, flip phones, and register now for this totally rad evening!

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Vanessa Flores at floresvanessa024@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Don't miss this unique opportunity to gain valuable career advice from Tamra Johnson, Assistant Dean of External Relations, UCR School of Business Administration!

Event Details

📅 Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

📍 Location: UCR School of Business

This month’s Pick Power Hour is free for members and non-members.

Refreshments will be provided.

Also, don’t forget to bring your business cards to network effectively, and business formal attire is encouraged.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Tamra’s expertise and connect with like-minded peers.

About Tamra Johnson

Tamra Johnson serves as the Assistant Dean of External Relations at the School of Business Administration, leveraging nearly two decades of experience in higher education, external relations, and strategic partnerships. She earned her Master of Administration in Human Resources Management from National University in 2014 and her Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from California Baptist University.

Throughout her career, Ms. Johnson has demonstrated a remarkable ability to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with universities, agent networks, and external constituents, which has been instrumental in the increased diversity of the student population at the School of Business.

Her expertise extends to coordinating vital pipeline and retention programs and establishing robust employment channels for students through strong connections with employers, alumni, and professional associations.

In her current role, Ms. Johnson is dedicated to elevating the School of Business's presence domestically and internationally. She actively works with alumni and external stakeholders to foster mentoring opportunities, encourage philanthropic giving, and facilitate valuable contributions through lectures and roundtables, underscoring the profound impact alumni have on current students. Her comprehensive background in admissions recruitment, fundraising initiatives, and high-impact event management positions her as a dynamic leader in advancing the school's mission.

Pick Member and Non-member Registration Form (FREE)

Join us for a hands-on charcuterie board workshop led by James Madison Catering. Enjoy complimentary drinks, a special gift for all registered guests, and a chance to win a raffle prize when you bring a non-member guest!

Event Details
🗓 Date: Friday, July 11, 2025
⏰ Time: 6PM - 8PM
📍 Location: The Cookie Tin Cafe, 1485 Spruce Street, Unit O, Riverside, CA 92507
Tickets:

• Members: $25

• Member & Guest: $35

• Non-Member: $40 (Want to save? Become a Pick Member today!)

Limited seats available, so register today!

Thank you to our sponsor!

UCR School of Business | A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management

Are you a networking guru that loves to plan parties and connect people to colleagues and resources? Contact Tiffany Grinkevich to learn how to get involved and help grow our awesome organization!

Committee meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Brickwood at 6:00pm.

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Vanessa Flores at floresvanessa024@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!

Are you involved in Riverside civic life? Contact Lindsey German to help get Pick Group a seat at the non-profit, community and government tables. 

Committee meets the 3rd Thursday of the month via Zoom at 12:00pm.

We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

Professional Development Committee welcomes you to join in on the conversation and planning for future pick power Hour events and Professional Development seminars.

Connect with Vanessa Flores at floresvanessa024@gmail.com for more information!

We look forward to meeting you!