San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino: A Landmark Achievement at the 2024 Global Gaming Awards
In the vibrant and competitive sphere of gaming and hospitality, few accolades hold as much prestige as those awarded at the Global Gaming Awards. During the recent Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and their flagship property, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, snagged top honors, further solidifying their status as leaders in the industry. Their achievements shine a light on their unwavering commitment to excellence and responsible business practices.
A Testament to Responsibility: "Responsible Business of the Year"
The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians achieved a remarkable milestone by being recognized as the “Responsible Business of the Year” for the fourth consecutive time. This accolade is not merely a title; it is a recognition of the Tribe’s enduring commitment to ethical practices that positively influence the community and stakeholders alike.
Since 2003, the San Manuel Tribe has generously donated over $400 million to various causes—spanning healthcare, education, social development, and cultural preservation across Indian Country. In 2024 alone, they contributed $12.6 million to over 200 philanthropic initiatives in the Inland Empire and beyond, reflecting their dedication to uplift the communities they serve.
Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Investing in our people and preserving our communities are foundational values at San Manuel. We are inspired by our ancestors and motivated by our youth to operate responsibly so that future generations may thrive.”
Rising Above the Crowd: "Property of the Year – North America"
In a groundbreaking achievement, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino was honored with the title of “Property of the Year – North America,” making it a standout among hundreds of premier gaming properties nationwide. This award recognizes Yaamava’s status as a premier gaming and entertainment destination, seamlessly combining world-class gaming with hospitality excellence.
Welcoming over 14 million visitors each year, Yaamava’ is the second most-visited destination in California, boasting an impressive array of features. The resort offers a gaming floor with over 7,200 slot machines and 150 table games, alongside five high-limit rooms catering to diverse gaming preferences. Guests can also enjoy an unparalleled culinary experience, luxurious accommodations, and entertainment offerings, with over 90 live shows annually, showcasing top-tier international talent.
Kenji Hall, General Manager of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, expressed his elation over the award: “We are beyond thrilled to be recognized as the best casino property in North America. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our incredible team. From our vibrant gaming floor to our one-of-a-kind hospitality offerings, we are committed to delivering an unmatched guest experience every day.”
A Commitment to Loyalty and Excellence
Beyond the monumental recognition as “Property of the Year,” Yaamava’ also garnered second place for “Customer Loyalty Program of the Year” with its celebrated Club Serrano. This loyalty program extends benefits not only to loyal guests at Yaamava’ but also to visitors at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas and Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point, CA. This interconnected loyalty program exemplifies the commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction and retention.
Moreover, Hall was recognized by his peers as he finished in the top three for “American Executive of the Year,” a distinction affirming his leadership and vision for the resort.
A Legacy of Excellence
The achievements recognized at the 2024 Global Gaming Awards highlight the synergy between gaming success and community responsibility. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino not only raise the bar for excellence in hospitality and gaming but also serve as a model for sustainable practices within the industry.
As they celebrate these well-deserved honors, the commitment of the San Manuel Tribe to their community remains unwavering. Their accolades underscore how a holistic approach to business—including societal awareness and corporate responsibility—can lead to exceptional recognition and enduring legacy in the gaming world. As they move forward, both the Tribe and the resort are poised to continue elevating the standards and practices of the gaming and hospitality industries, serving as trailblazers for others to follow.
