Continuing their mission to uplift southern Nevada through philanthropy and community investment, the San Manuel Gaming & Hospitality Authority (SMGHA) and Palms Casino Resort recently announced the awarding of $1.2 million in grants to support 51 diverse nonprofit organizations serving education, health, workforce development, cultural preservation, and underserved populations across the Las Vegas Valley.
The 2025 grants range from $5,000 to $100,000 and will fund impactful programs, such as PEF’s Teacher FastTrack initiative working to fully staff Nevada classrooms for the first time since 1994, emergency shelter and wraparound support for homeless youth, and the purchase of 300 combination smoke/carbon monoxide detectors for high-risk housing.
“We are committed to honoring our legacy, while becoming a driving force for positive social change in the Las Vegas community,” said Latisha Prieto, Chairperson of SMGHA. “This commitment is rooted in the Spirit of Yawa — acting on one’s beliefs — and inspires us to support organizations dedicated to building a better future.”
Additional highlights include a $50,000 grant to the University of Nevada Reno’s Tribal Academy, which will expand mentorship and support services for Native students pursuing degrees in healthcare, biosciences, and beyond.
“This generous investment will help us expand critical programming and mentorship opportunities for Native students across Nevada,” said Daphne Emm Hooper, Director of Indigenous Relations, University of Nevada Reno. “We’re grateful for partners like SMGHA and Palms, who share our commitment to improving educational access and outcomes for Indigenous communities.”
A $15,000 grant to Goodie Two Shoes Foundation will also help provide new high-quality sneakers to thousands of local children, improving school attendance, self-esteem, and physical activity.
“This significant contribution directly supports the foundation’s mission to equip local youth with the essential well-fitting footwear they need to step forward with confidence and dignity. This generous grant comes at the perfect time, helping us meet rising inventory costs, while outfitting 10,000 to 11,000 children this school year,” said Nikki Berti, Co-Founder and CEO of Goodie Two Shoes Foundation.
This marks the fourth consecutive year that SMGHA and Palms have provided more than $2 million in annual grant funding as part of their Palms Cares community-outreach program, underscoring their commitment to delivering meaningful support that strengthens and empowers the Las Vegas community.
