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2026 Our Promise celebrates season of giving

November 13, 2026

As November ushers in a season of giving, CDCR and CCHCS staff gathered to support causes making a difference through the 2026 Our Promise campaign.

The annual Our Promise kickoff brought together 25 nonprofit organizations to the Elk Grove campus. This gave state employees an opportunity to learn about their missions and meet representatives face-to-face. This also allowed staff to explore meaningful ways to give back.

“Today is the Our Promise campaign kickoff event, where we invite nonprofits to come and meet all the CCHCS, CDCR Elk Grove campus staff,” said Jonathan Knyff, supervisor with CCHCS.

Through the Our Promise campaign, state employees can make charitable contributions to nonprofit organizations of their choice, supporting community programs.

Watch the video (story continues below):

Giving to charities of choice

“All state employees have the opportunity to give to their nonprofits of choice,” said Brian Waughan, an Our Promise/United Way representative.

Among the participating organizations was Make-A-Wish, which shared how employee donations can help make a difference for children and families.

State employees learn about charity organizations during Our Promise event in Elk Grove.

“It costs about $15,000 per wish, and our goal this year is to do 260 wishes,” said Cheryl Lewis, a Make-A-Wish volunteer.

For longtime state employees like Shaleasima Cummings, the campaign has become an annual tradition.

“I’ve been with the state for over 20 years, and I have given every year,” Cummings said. “It’s a good opportunity to help someone else.”

Secretary Macomber addresses the gathering.

Organizers emphasized the value of personal connections in encouraging participation and building lasting relationships between employees and nonprofit organizations.

“If you meet someone face to face, you’re more likely to donate to that nonprofit,” Knyff said.

According to Knyff, last year’s event helped generate an estimated additional $10,000 to $12,000 for participating nonprofits.

Loaves and Fishes booth at Our Promise kick-off event in Elk Grove.

As the season of giving continues, organizers hope the campaign inspires employees to carry that spirit of generosity beyond the holidays, creating a lasting impact throughout the year.

“I hope it just continues to grow, and we get more nonprofits out here,” Knyff said.

Learn more on the Our Promise website. To manage your donations, state employees can into their Cal Employee Connect account.

Story, photos and video by Vanessa Uriarte, TV Specialist
Office of Public and Employee Communications