Hillside traces its roots to a group of couples who were attending First Baptist Church of Pomona. As they began to move their families to the Rancho Cucamonga area, they sensed a need for new churches in a rapidly growing community. After further research and an initial meeting of interested participants, the group held its first worship service in June of 1979.

Facilities were rented at Chaffey College, and Dr. Don Thomas, a retired seminary professor, came to assist the fledging group in its early organizational phase.

This pioneering group set out to find its first pastor. Dr. David Burns accepted the call and began his ministry with Hillside in 1980.

Hillside Community Church officially chartered with 51 members. After a couple of years of steady growth, the opportunity to purchase land presented itself. In conjunction with the American Baptist Churches of the Pacific Southwest, a 10 acre site at the top of Haven Avenue was secured as Hillside's future home.

A master plan was developed and approved by the city of Rancho Cucamonga, and the first phase of a building plan was initiated. The first move entailed the placement of a modular building for both worship and educational needs.
As Hillside continued to grow, it became apparent that permanent and larger facilities were needed. Additional modulars were purchased and then in 1994 the Family Center, Hillside's first permanent building, was constructed.

Within a year, Hillside made a bold move and raised the funds to construct the present sports fields, now used for its expanding sports program.

Through the years, God has provided additional staff members who have led the way in developing the many active ministries evident today at Hillside.

The theme of our entire building program, from start to finish, has been, UPWARD BOUND, and as the journey continues, the theme still rings true.

"But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." [Philippians 3:13]