Since 2005, FIERCE Advocates has walked alongside Black and Latinx families, uplifting their voices and advancing a vision of equity, justice, and healing. What began as Building Blocks for Kids (BBK) has grown into a vibrant movement rooted in community leadership and generational strength.
This year marks a major milestone.
Join us in celebrating two decades of impact, connection, and resilience as we honor the past and ignite the future.
Our Community Lit The Path
From bubbles and face painting to Zumba and line dancing in the streets, our 20th Anniversary Community Block Party on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Richmond Civic Center Plaza was a day to remember.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, and a special thanks to all the vendors, sponsors, and in-kind donors who helped make this event possible.
We are also grateful to photographer David Meza for capturing these incredible moments. Explore the photos and join us as we continue celebrating through upcoming programs and events.
Stories That Light the Path
Explore powerful reflections and voices from our community as we honor the past and imagine what’s possible
A Fireside Chat with Sheryl Lane And Supervisor Gioia
Join FIERCE Advocates’ Executive Director, Sheryl Lane, and Contra Costa Supervisor, John Gioia, for a powerful conversation reflecting on the roots of community change, the importance of amplifying resident voices, and building sustainable partnerships.
Together, they discuss how FIERCE Advocates evolved from Building Blocks for Kids into a cornerstone for equity and healing-centered leadership in Richmond, and why community-driven solutions remain essential today.
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Sheryl Lane on ABC7
FIERCE Advocates Executive Director, Sheryl Lane, joined ABC7 News to reflect on 20 years of impact in Richmond and across the Bay Area. From maternal health and education justice to leadership development, Sheryl shares how community wisdom has guided FIERCE’s journey and how it will shape the next 20 years.
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Honoring Our 20th Anniversary Vendors
From Zumba and food vendors to healing-centered partners, each participant brought joy and purpose to the day. Together, we honored two decades of collective care and strengthened the movement for equity across Contra Costa County.
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Celebrating 20 Years Together
Families from across Contra Costa gathered to celebrate two decades of community, empowerment, and collective impact. From Zumba and line dancing to face painting, bubbles, and delicious food, the day was filled with moments that highlighted the creativity, strength, and spirit of our community.
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The Power of 20: FIERCE Advocates by the Numbers
From its beginnings as Building Blocks for Kids to its evolution into FIERCE Advocates, this 20th anniversary marks a powerful legacy of community-driven change. Discover the milestones, programs, and people behind two decades of healing, advocacy, and empowerment in Richmond and beyond.
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From BBK to FIERCE: A Legacy of Evolution
As FIERCE Advocates marks 20 years of powerful community-rooted work, Executive Director Sheryl Lane reflects on the journey from BBK to a movement for equity, healing, and multigenerational change.
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Building Better Men and Stronger Communities with FIERCE
Alex Spry’s reflections on Brilliance of Brotherhood remind us how creating safe spaces for men to grow and connect strengthens not only individuals, but entire communities.
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FIERCE Advocates Celebrates Black Women’s Power and Resilience
Authored by 22 African American women, this compelling anthology reflects the diverse experiences of Black women navigating life’s challenges, from systemic barriers to personal challenges, with strength, grace, and determination.
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Home Grown Leaders: The CELI Story and Why Representation Matters
Discover how FIERCE Advocates’ CELI program is transforming leadership in Contra Costa County through the passion and power of the Spring 2025 cohort.
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When Parents Lead, Communities Thrive
Learn how Tannia Vargas turned her passion for her children’s education into leadership through FIERCE’s CELI program and now serves on the CBOC.
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Carrying Forward a Legacy of Justice and Community Power
Joyce Roys-Aguilera, Program Manager at The California Endowment, reminds us that true change cannot happen in isolation. At a time when immigrant communities, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, and those seeking reproductive healthcare face mounting attacks, FIERCE Advocates continues to be a trusted partner and vital resource.
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Why Supporting FIERCE Advocates Matters More Than Ever
As we celebrate our 20th Anniversary, we reflect on the resilience and impact that have defined our journey while inviting you to join us in shaping the next chapter.
Stand With Us for the Next 20 Years
Together, we can expand opportunities, nurture leadership, and lift every voice in our community. Every gift helps us build a stronger, healthier future.
