Winter 2022 Newsletter
Letter from the Executive Director
Dear Community:
It’s springtime, one of my favorite times of the year! The days are longer, and I can spend more time outdoors and enjoy the smells of lavender in the air. As I see flowers bloom, I’m reminded about the blossoming programs at BBK that continue to elevate empowered and wellness-centered communities. I’m excited that we continue to support wellness with our monthly family activities and our peer wellness sanctuaries for women and men in our local communities.
We are developing opportunities with community partners in the Bay Area Coalition for Education Justice and Black Village Network to spring forward parent-and-youth-led advocacy, which inspires me. And since it’s reflection time for me, I’m proud of our tremendous year in 2021, despite the continued challenges COVID-19 placed on our communities. While we’ve already sprung forward and the clocks are an hour ahead, take a look at our 2021 Impact Report to see what we seeded last year that is now in bloom.
As always, if you have any questions, please send me an email at slane@bbk-richmond.org or give me a call at 510-230-5812, x404.
In Appreciation,
Sheryl Lane
Executive Director
CoCo Doulas: Welcoming our Newest and Youngest Residents
There is no better feeling than bringing a healthy baby into the world, especially when you have the resources to care for and provide for yourself, your newborn, and your family. We are thrilled about our CoCo Doulas program that trains and hosts community-based doulas. CoCo Doulas provide vital emotional support, labor preparation, and coaching to enable healthier birthing experiences and reduce complications for Black birthing families.
Ten beautiful babies have been born, with many more due to arrive in the coming months with a CoCo Doula by the birthing parent’s side.
CoCo Doulas not only provide pre-and-post natal support, but they guide families with information about nutrition, breastfeeding, and resources for their overall well-being.
If you are interested in receiving support at no cost from a CoCo Doula or you are interested in joining our next community-based doula training cohort, connect with us on the CoCo Doulas webpage or contact Lauren McCollins lmccollins@bbk-richmond.org.
Black Village Network Kicks Off
Dr. Martin Luther King is quoted for his “I Have a Dream” speech, and he also spoke of the beloved community, which “is a global vision in which all people can share in the wealth of the earth.”
We are proud to partner with The Ed Fund to co-host the Black Village Network in building a beloved community. The Black Village Network is a multigenerational space composed of Black parents and youth who will begin to work in teams to envision, reimagine and co-create solutions so that Black students and families can thrive in our local educational systems.
BVN’s recent kick-off energy was beautiful as young people shared their ideas. BVN’s youngest innovator, a nine-year-old student, shared a poem, and parents connected about their desires for strong and connected communities.
Fun Family Spring Activities
Are you looking for fun family activities in April? BBK is hosting fun spring gardening activities every Thursday beginning April 7th, from 6-7 pm. Activities will include planting tulips, carrots, and tomatoes that you can do at home with your family and our team.
We are providing free gardening materials to the first 20 people to sign up, and even if you do not get the materials, you’re welcome to join us. To pre-register and get more information, please contact Marisol Romero at mromero-frias@bbk-richmond.org or (510) 232-5812 ext 406.
