How to Connect with Inland Empire's Diverse Communities—and Turn it Into Engagement

ken2930
7 hours ago
3 min read

You've got the media buy.

You've got the message.

But do you actually have the community?

In the Inland Empire, attention isn't won—it's earned. And if your brand, campaign, or organization isn't rooted in trust, relevance, and genuine relationships, audiences will scroll right past you.

This is the reality that Manny Sandoval and Denise Berver have navigated for years as co-owners of Inland Empire Community News. And on Thursday, January 29, they're pulling back the curtain on what actually works when you're speaking to one of California's most diverse, fast-growing regions.

Cost: FREE to AAF Members $5 for the general public

This Presentation Is for You If You're Done Guessing

Whether you're in advertising, marketing, communications, or community engagement, this professional development presentation is designed for professionals who are ready to move beyond generic tactics and connect with Inland Empire communities in ways that drive real engagement, loyalty, and measurable results.

No performative "authenticity." No corporate platitudes. Just proven, street-level strategies from two people who've built their careers on earning trust in this region.

What You'll Learn

Build Trust That Converts

Drawing from years in the newsroom, Manny and Denise will break down the credibility cues and community-first practices that make Inland Empire audiences believe you—and then engage, share, and take action. You'll learn how to establish the kind of trust that doesn't just create awareness, but drives conversion.

Engage Online and In Person—Consistently

Learn how to show up across platforms without burning out or sounding corporate. From community management and DMs to cadence, creator partnerships, and showing up at events, you'll hear their practical playbook for building connections that don't disappear when the campaign ends. This is about sustainable audience growth and loyalty.

Storytelling That Actually Lands

Forget generic messaging. Manny and Denise will share their practical storytelling framework for finding the human angle, shaping narratives, and matching tone, visuals, and calls to action to distinct Inland Empire communities—so your message sticks and resonates across diverse audiences.

Turn Partnerships Into Reach (and Revenue)

Discover how IECN identifies the right community partners, makes the ask, structures win-win collaborations, and turns relationships into measurable growth and sustainable sponsorships. Learn how to translate authentic relationships into business outcomes.

Your Presenters: Experience That Matters

Manny Sandoval is co-owner of Inland Empire Community News and Sandoval Communications. With a passion for education, he's also an adjunct professor in SBVC's Film, TV, and Media Department. He holds a master's degree in strategic communication from CBU and a bachelor's degree in mass communication from CSUSB. Manny was recognized as one of the top 30 community leaders under the age of 30 by California State Senator Eloise Gomez Reyes.

Denise Berver is co-owner and publisher of Inland Empire Community News, dedicated to sustaining independent, local journalism in the IE. She holds a bachelor's degree in English from CSUSB and an associate's degree in Liberal Arts from SBVC. Beginning her career with IECN as a part-time receptionist, Denise eventually advanced to managing the legal advertising department before becoming an owner. In her 30+ years in the newspaper industry, she has gained experience across multiple aspects of the business, including editorial, production, accounting, and sales.

With Manny's background in strategic communication and media education—and Denise's three decades navigating every side of the newspaper business—this presentation blends strategy, storytelling, and street-level insight you won't get from a deck alone.

Event Details

When: Thursday, January 29

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Where: YMCA of the East Valley Community Room 500 East Citrus Avenue Redlands, CA 92373

Cost: FREE to AAF Members $5 for the general public

Perks:

✓ Free parking

✓ Refreshments will be served

✓ Actionable insights you can implement immediately

If you want relationships that last and campaigns that resonate in the Inland Empire, this presentation delivers the roadmap. You'll leave with concrete frameworks, proven tactics, and a clearer understanding of how to navigate California's most dynamic and diverse market.