When Community Partnerships Turn a Vision Into Reality

Ontario, California — July 2026

The D’Andre D. Lampkin Foundation’s recent recognition with the Chaffey Heritage Award during the City of Ontario’s Independence Day Parade represents more than an award-winning float. It is a story about what can happen when businesses, volunteers, community members, and civic organizations rally around a shared vision.

Every successful community project begins with an idea. Bringing that idea to life, however, requires something much greater: partnership.

When the Foundation set out to create an educational parade float honoring legendary architect Paul Revere Williams and celebrating the 100th anniversary of Ontario’s historic Post Office, the vision was ambitious. In just a matter of days, digital concepts had to become large-scale exhibits, construction materials had to be gathered, and a mobile display had to be designed, fabricated, and assembled in time for one of Ontario’s largest annual celebrations.

That transformation would not have been possible without the generosity and encouragement of community partners who believed in the project from the very beginning.

A Printing Partner That Believed in the Vision

One of the first organizations to embrace the project was Empire Printing & Publishing, Inc.

Working under an extremely tight deadline, their team transformed concept artwork into large-format cutouts that became the centerpiece of the Foundation’s educational exhibit. Their craftsmanship allowed illustrations of Paul Revere Williams and several of his most iconic architectural works to become striking visual displays that captured the attention of thousands of parade spectators.

Following the parade, the owners of Empire Printing shared a message that perfectly captured the spirit of the collaboration:

“Congratulations D’Andre. It’s our honor to have a chance to see your vision turn into the magnificent winning float!!!”

Their words reflect something far greater than a business transaction. They represent a community partner who took pride in helping make a meaningful project possible.

Encouragement From an Unexpected Partner

As construction continued into the evening before the parade, another partnership began in an unexpected place.

While assembling the float in the parking lot of The Home Depot – Ontario, associates noticed the project taking shape and stopped to ask questions. As they learned about the Foundation’s mission and the purpose behind the float, they encouraged the effort and generously helped by providing discounts on construction materials, including lumber that became part of the display.

They asked only one thing:

“Come back after the parade so we can see how it turned out.”

After learning the Foundation had received the Chaffey Heritage Award, the Home Depot team celebrated the accomplishment alongside Foundation representatives, proudly posing with the trophy to share the success with their corporate leadership.

Their enthusiasm demonstrated that community partnerships often begin with a simple conversation and a willingness to help.

Volunteers Who Made the Vision Possible

Behind every finished project are countless hours of work that few people ever see.

This award-winning float was made possible through the dedication of volunteers who generously gave their time, energy, creativity, and encouragement to bring the vision to life. From unloading materials and assembling displays to solving construction challenges, transporting equipment, and preparing the float for the parade route, their commitment transformed individual pieces of artwork into a cohesive educational exhibit celebrating one of America’s most influential architects.

The Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to Ontario Council District 3 residents Ben, Lily, Kevin, Andrew, and Alejandra; D’Andre D. Lampkin Foundation Board Member Marcellus McMillian; and Greater Ontario residents Andres and Thomas for their willingness to serve their community and contribute their talents to this project.

Their collective efforts demonstrate that meaningful community initiatives are never accomplished alone. They are built through neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers stepping forward, and individuals who believe that preserving history and strengthening communities is a shared responsibility.

The Foundation is deeply grateful to each volunteer whose dedication helped transform an ambitious idea into an award-winning educational exhibit that inspired thousands of parade attendees.

More Than a Parade Float

While the Chaffey Heritage Award recognizes excellence in celebrating local history, the Foundation believes the greatest accomplishment was something much deeper.

Throughout the parade, children stopped to ask questions about Paul Revere Williams. Families paused to read the educational displays. Community members shared stories about Ontario’s history. Conversations began because a float became an opportunity to learn.

That is exactly what community partnerships make possible.

Together, businesses, volunteers, residents, and civic leaders transformed an idea into an experience that educated, inspired, and celebrated Ontario’s heritage.

Building Stronger Communities, Together

The D’Andre D. Lampkin Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to:

• Empire Printing & Publishing, Inc.
• The Home Depot – Ontario
• The City of Ontario
• The Chaffey Heritage Committee
• Every volunteer who contributed their time and talents
• Every parade attendee who stopped to learn about Paul Revere Williams

The Foundation’s mission is simple:

Building Stronger, More Resilient Communities, Together.

The award-winning parade float demonstrated that this mission is not simply a slogan.

It is a reminder that when people choose to work together, remarkable things become possible.