UpTogether celebrated our work in Oakland, California last week with a breakfast and dialogue among members, community partners, staff and the Board of Directors. Our organization was founded in Oakland in as the Family Independence Initiative.
Our footprint in Oakland grew in when we launched Oakland Resilient Families. Others said they used the money to pay off debt, save for a home and spend time with family.
Many described being motivated to exchange social support, particularly around challenging experiences that affect under-resourced communities of color, and feeling less stress and anxiety.
Citywide, our Oakland Resilient Families showcased the value of trusting and investing in our communities. UpTogether will partner with organizations across Oakland to initiate our first narrative change campaign, which will be aimed at uplifting the inherent strengths of all people in poverty. The breakfast event gave our members a seat at the table with local leaders, philanthropists, and supporters who share the belief that investing in families with unrestricted cash is a real solution to shrinking the racial wealth gap and elevating the value of our communities.
Prior to the pandemic, UpTogether held regular in-person meetings with members. We hope to hold more events like this one in the coming months. UpTogether member Tara found value in the opportunity, saying she liked "meeting and talking with other members and staff, networking and focusing on how we can come up with ideas that could change people's lives for the better living in the Bay Area.
