Lighting the Path Forward: Why Supporting FIERCE Advocates Matters More Than Ever
Twenty years ago, what began as Building Blocks for Kids (BBK) was more than just a local initiative. It was a promise to families in Richmond and beyond: a promise that every child deserves opportunity, every parent deserves a voice, and every community deserves the chance to thrive.
From those early beginnings, a vision took root. Over time, that vision grew into something stronger and bolder. Today, that promise lives on as FIERCE Advocates, a movement that has spent two decades building power, strengthening families, and advancing equity.
This year, as FIERCE prepares to celebrate its 20th Anniversary with the theme Lighting the Path Forward, the organization reflects not only on its legacy but also on the road ahead. This is more than a milestone, it is an invitation to join in shaping the future.
Over the past twenty years, FIERCE Advocates has been a consistent and powerful presence in the lives of families.
Its impact can be felt in living rooms, classrooms, and neighborhoods throughout the community.
Imagine a dinner table where parents confidently sit across from school leaders, their voices respected in shaping policy decisions. Imagine children who once lacked access to resources now exploring STEM programs, wellness initiatives, and leadership opportunities that give them a real chance to thrive. Imagine neighbors gathered at block parties or community dinners, finding not just joy but healing, solidarity, and strength.
This is the story of FIERCE.
Parents have become advocates, stepping into leadership roles that directly influence education.
Youth have discovered new opportunities, gaining skills and experiences that shape their futures.
Entire neighborhoods have been mobilized, with thousands of voters engaged and families connected to critical resources.
FIERCE’s work is not abstract: It lives in the resilience of families, the confidence of young leaders, and the stronger policies that reflect the voices of the community.
Organizations like FIERCE have always played a vital role in filling the gaps where systems fall short.
They create spaces of belonging when families feel isolated, offer leadership development where opportunities are scarce, and provide advocacy where voices too often go unheard.
For Black and Latinx families in particular, this work is essential.
Systemic inequities continue to impact education, housing, healthcare, and access to opportunity. Without organizations like FIERCE, too many families would face these challenges alone. With FIERCE, they find a movement that stands beside them with resources, solidarity, and determination.
That is why the 20th Anniversary is not only a time of celebration but also a call to action!
The Power of Partnership
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, families, community members, and supporters will come together for a milestone celebration! Lighting the Path Forward will be a day to honor the journey of the past two decades and to spark momentum for the future.
This is where partnership makes all the difference: Sponsoring or donating is not simply about funding an event. It is about fueling the next chapter of community impact. Further, it is about ensuring that parents continue to lead in education, youth continue to access transformative opportunities, and families continue to rise together.
Support also carries a message: Sponsors and donors stand publicly as champions of equity, inclusion, and justice. They align their values with the future FIERCE is building and connect with a dedicated audience of community leaders, families, and change-makers. Visibility and recognition are important, but the deeper value lies in being part of a movement that will continue shaping lives for generations to come.
Lighting the Path Forward Together
Twenty years of progress is something to celebrate; yet, the journey is far from over. The inequities FIERCE was founded to confront remain, and the need for united action is as urgent as ever.
This anniversary offers a chance to celebrate the past, embrace the present, and ignite the future! By becoming a sponsor, making a donation, or simply joining in the celebration, you are standing with families who are leading the way toward equity.
FIERCE Advocates has never been just an organization; it has always been a movement. A movement where families find power, youth discover possibility, and entire communities rise together.
Now, as we look ahead to the next twenty years, the invitation is clear: Be part of the story, stand with FIERCE Advocates, and help light the path forward!
