We are excited to share some of the achievements of our organization this past year, which have advanced our mission of promoting intentional integration and true inclusion in our community.
We engaged people in addressing racism with a number of programs: targeted Anti-Bias/Anti-Racism Training for community groups and businesses; the “Deconstructing Racism” series that fosters deeper understanding and action against racism; the annual Conversations on Race that focused on disinformation's effect on racial equity; a BOE Candidates’ Forum; and the “Talking to Children about Race” workshop for parents and caregivers on raising race-conscious children.
We hosted the Dr. King Observance, Luminary Lighting, and Volunteer Fair, engaging nearly 2000 people. Black History Month programs included ‘Coming to Jersey: Black Families Tell Their Stories’ at which local Black residents shared their journeys to South Orange and Maplewood. We collaborated with Durand-Hedden House on both a Black Maternal Health panel discussing the impact of racism on health during Black History Month, and the 5th annual Juneteenth celebration. Our second Juneteenth event was a documentary screening of ‘Gabriel's Daughter, The Life and Legacy of Clara Brown.’
A critical part of our residential integration effort is the Wealth Gap Equalizer Loan (WGEL) to support Black and Brown first-time homebuyers in SOMA. We’re excited to report that we have closed six loans. Plus, monthly Integrated Art Circles and the SOMA Neighbors Connect helped foster social connections among people of different races.
These accomplishments reflect our unwavering commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable community. We look forward to continuing this important work with your support.
To view our 990 report, click on the link below: