About CCE

Our mission, in our own words.

Together, we elevate communities — one connection at a time. The Coalition for Community Elevation is a San Diego nonprofit built by people from the communities it serves.

Mission

Why we exist

CCE exists to uplift and empower lower economic communities by expanding economic opportunity, strengthening civic knowledge, elevating cultural identity, and building leadership pathways.

Our mission is driven by lived experience, community strength, and the belief that every person deserves access to the tools, resources, and dignity required to rise beyond circumstance.

Neighbors and staff talking at information tables inside a community hall during a resource fair.

Vision

Where we are going

CCE envisions a future where individuals are measured not by wealth or status, but by character, contribution, and courage.

We strive to build a society where communities once ignored or overlooked become hubs of innovation, leadership, and cultural pride. A future where people grow together instead of apart.

Community members standing together at the gate of a neighborhood garden beside raised planter boxes.

Guiding principles

Five commitments that guide every decision

  1. Empower through education
  2. Build leaders rooted in authenticity
  3. Strengthen unity across all walks of life
  4. Fight systemic inequities with truth + collaboration
  5. Honor every community's culture and humanity

The Energy of M.E.

Built on truth. On lived resilience.

This movement is built on truth. On lived resilience. On refusing to let struggle define worth. The energy of M.E. is the fire behind CCE — a voice rising from experience, injustice, compassion, and unshakeable belief in our collective elevation.

CCE blends street wisdom, academic knowledge, and community heart into one unified force for transformation.

An outdoor community gathering on a patio with umbrellas, tables and neighbors in conversation.

Our commitment

Bridges strong enough for all of us

We are here to create lasting change — not by excluding, but by uniting. Not by rejecting differences, but by building bridges strong enough for all of us to walk across. We carry a simple truth: together, we elevate communities — one connection at a time.

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Verified details

For funders, partners, and grant reviewers

These details are taken directly from CCE's filed documents and IRS determination letter.

  • Legal nameCoalition for Community Elevation
  • Entity typeCalifornia Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation
  • State entity numberB20250407645
  • Filed with the State of CaliforniaDecember 9, 2025
  • IRS status501(c)(3) public charity (170(b)(1)(A)(vi))
  • Determination letterJune 4, 2026
  • Effective date of exemptionDecember 9, 2025
  • EIN41-3721586
  • Purpose of incorporationCharitable and educational programs supporting and empowering lower-income communities.
  • Service areaSan Diego County, California

Coalition for Community Elevation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 41-3721586. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.