Advocacy Bootcamp Inspires Contra Costa Parents to Lead and Advocate
This fall, FIERCE Advocates and First 5 Contra Costa County joined forces to host a powerful five week Advocacy Bootcamp. Designed for parents and caregivers across Contra Costa County, the program gave participants hands-on tools to strengthen their leadership skills, navigate local government, and speak up for the issues that matter most in their communities.
Over the course of the training, participants not only gained knowledge but also grew in confidence, connection, and purpose. By the final session, every participant was ready to step into their role as a community leader, equipped to turn inspiration into action.
A Partnership Rooted in Possibility
For more than two decades, First 5 Contra Costa has helped young children and families thrive during their most critical years of development.
Their commitment to prevention, equity, and systems change aligns powerfully with FIERCE’s work to uplift Black and Latinx families through healing-centered leadership and advocacy.
By joining forces, both organizations created a space where parents and caregivers could build a foundation in advocacy while also strengthening the skills they use every day in their homes, schools, and neighborhoods.
Cairo Moore, FIERCE’s Leadership and Coaching Coordinator, reflected on the collaboration:
“Parents want to advocate. Most are not put in position to be successful in this space. Listening to their needs and supporting them with practical tools is essential. I am proud of our ability to serve members of the Contra Costa community.”
Learning Through Practice
Throughout the Bootcamp, participants engaged in hands-on activities focused on leadership development, advocacy strategies, and navigating local government systems. Several moments stood out as transformational.
Participants researched local community issues, explored their histories, and prepared brief public comments to share in a supportive setting.
Another highlight was a panel with local government officials, where participants asked questions, named concerns, and sparked thoughtful dialogue.
Cairo shared:
“These activities were powerful. Participants practiced staying calm, confident, and concise when speaking to public officials. The excitement in the room was infectious and motivating.”
By the final session, every participant was ready to speak their truth with clarity and courage.
The heart of the Bootcamp can be felt through the words of its participants:
“I left feeling energized, inspired, empowered and learned so much in just four weeks. I am looking forward to staying connected and continuing the work in the community.”
Melissa Tabique, Center Director West County First 5 Center
“Thank you for your empowering words of encouragement. You and your team were awesome. I enjoyed every bit of this series and felt your true passion for advocacy. I am thankful to have been part of such an amazing series.”
Sheenna Glover, Leader
“Many thanks to you and the extraordinary team for sharing a wealth of information around advocacy. I miss the classes and the relationships we built. I am already putting the principles into practice in my daily life and in my doula work.”
Valerie Mathews, Leader
These reflections remind us that building community power is not just about knowledge. It is about connection, confidence, and belonging.
Every participant entered the Bootcamp as a leader.
FIERCE’s role was to help unlock confidence, expand knowledge, and provide space to practice real advocacy.
Cairo shared a hopeful vision of how these skills will continue to grow:
“I am confident that participants will begin advocating for themselves, their families, and their community on a deeper level.
This might look like joining advisory councils, speaking at city meetings, serving on school boards, or forming community groups to address daily inequities. We did not give them a voice. We helped them find it and direct it to the world.”
The Advocacy Bootcamp was more than a training series
It was a reminder that community power grows when people feel seen, supported, and connected. It was a space where voices were strengthened, ideas were exchanged, and courage was nurtured.
To every participant, partner, and staff member who showed up with heart, thank you. Your dedication inspires us and fuels FIERCE’s commitment to building a future where every family in Contra Costa County is supported to lead with confidence.
Together, we are building a community where advocacy is accessible, leadership is shared, and change is possible.
See the Fall 2025 Advocacy Bootcamp in Action!
Visit our Advocacy Bootcamp Gallery to view photos from the training sessions and graduation celebration. Celebrate with us as parents and caregivers step into their voices and make an impact in Contra Costa County!
