Richmond neighbors came together at Humphrey Playlot for FIERCE’s Back to School Bash, sharing ideas, connecting across generations, and imagining a safer, greener park for their families. Youth, leaders, and families helped turn vision into action for equitable community spaces.

Executive Director Sheryl Lane and Supervisor Gioia reflect on the evolution of FIERCE Advocates, the power of storytelling, and the importance of partnership in shaping Richmond’s future.

Joyce Roys-Aguilera highlights how FIERCE Advocates empowers Black and Latinx families, builds resident leaders, and creates generational change. Celebrate 20 years of community-driven impact at FIERCE’s 20th Anniversary Block Party.

Executive Director Sheryl Lane joined ABC7 to reflect on FIERCE’s 20 years of impact and invite the community to celebrate at our free anniversary block party this Saturday in Richmond.

Through Brilliance of Brotherhood, Alex Spry shares how men of all ages are finding encouragement, wisdom, and connection. As part of FIERCE’s 20-year legacy, the program shows how investing in men’s growth leads to stronger families and communities.

For two decades, FIERCE Advocates has stood alongside Black and Latinx families, building community power, expanding opportunities for youth, and shaping policies that create equity. 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. Sponsorships, donations, and partnerships ensure that together we can continue uplifting families, strengthening communities, and lighting the path forward for the future.

Eighteen new community-based doulas have joined the CoCo Doulas program, bringing the total to 60 graduates since 2021. Their journey reflects healing, leadership, and the power of birth justice for Black families in Contra Costa County.

Families, youth, and community partners gathered at the 5th Annual Back-to-School Jump Off for a day of fun, resources, and connection. Students left with backpacks, families discovered valuable services, and everyone celebrated the joy and resilience of the community.

Women’s Equality Day marks the certification of the 19th Amendment, a milestone in the fight for women’s voting rights. Yet true equality remains unfinished, especially for women of color. FIERCE Advocates continues this legacy by uplifting families through leadership development, advocacy, and healing-centered care.

When Tannia Vargas joined FIERCE Advocates’ Community Education Leadership Institute (CELI), she wanted to learn how to advocate for her children’s education. Through CELI, she gained skills in public speaking, policy engagement, and coalition-building, along with the confidence to step into leadership. After graduating in Fall 2024, Tannia was appointed to the Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee, ensuring school construction funds are used responsibly and equitably. CELI empowers parents and community leaders to influence local boards and commissions, showing that when parents lead, communities thrive. The Spring 2026 interest form is now open.

At Richmond’s Unity in the Community Health & Resource Fair, FIERCE Advocates helped families access vital wellness tools and services. From doula care to life coaching, the event emphasized holistic support and community connection for Black and Latinx families across Contra Costa County.

FIERCE Advocates is nurturing the next generation of leaders in Contra Costa County. From mentorship and skill-building to shared decision-making, we’re creating space for Black and Latinx youth to lead with confidence, advocate for change, and shape a brighter future.

Black and Latinx youth in Contra Costa County face unique emotional challenges and strengths. Discover family-centered strategies to build resilience, connection, and healing.

The CELI Spring 2025 graduates embody FIERCE’s legacy of turning lived experience into leadership, championing equitable education and mental health for Black and Brown families.

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.

Self-advocacy during pregnancy can make all the difference-especially for Black and Latinx mothers navigating a system that doesn’t always listen. Learn how to prepare, speak up, and find culturally rooted support through FIERCE Advocates’ CoCo Doulas program.

Juneteenth is a time to honor Black freedom, resilience, and community power. Learn how Richmond is keeping the tradition alive and why supporting organizations like FIERCE is key to building a more just future.

In collaboration with Urban Tilth, FIERCE Advocates hosted a four-part Climate Friendly Diet workshop series that introduced our community to the 70/30 eating concept, local ingredients, and simple, sustainable changes that start at the dinner table.

Men’s Health Month is more than awareness, it’s a call to action. Discover how Holding Space offers men of color real support for healing, growth, and connection.

Healing isn’t just about healthcare, it’s about reclaiming dignity, honoring culture, and creating spaces where Black and Latinx families can truly thrive. At FIERCE Advocates, healing-centered care means supporting the whole person through compassion, community, and culturally-rooted practices.