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Big Changes Ahead

An Important Message from Chet P. Hewitt, President & CEO of Sierra Health Foundation and CEO of The Center

Change is upon us and it’s clear that we’re approaching a period in which critical decisions that will shape California’s future will be made. These decisions will determine how we respond to pending state budget challenges and historic investment opportunities, as well as demonstrate the depth of our commitment to advancing shared prosperity in our state.

Without question, the most pressing near-term challenge is related to the state’s fiscal position. It’s often said budgets are value statements and this is never truer than during difficult financial times. [read more now]

Learn more about what's ahead

$1M Power Building Grant Just Announced by Sierra Health Foundation

We are reinforcing our commitment to inclusive economic development by investing $1 million in power building. Chet Hewitt announced Sierra Health Foundation's investment February 6 during The Center's Community Economic Mobilization Initiative Convening in San Bernardino, sharing: “We are committing one million dollars to making [power building] happen. We are going to invest in a level of organizing that ensures CEMI and other like-minded initiatives are fully present in the places where decisions are being made and the structure or restructuring of the economy is being discussed.”

Chet announces SHF commitment to inclusive community economic development

Pictured above: Chet elaborates on CEMI's goals and explains how Sierra Health Foundation's investment in power building will impact the program. Click the thumbnail to watch now.

Save The Date for Equity on the Road 2024

The San Joaquin Valley Health Fund (SJVHF) is taking Equity on the Mall on the road. SJVHF will work with community partners, elected officials and funders to host three town halls in the communities of Bakersfield (April 17), Madera (April 18) and Stockton (April 19). These Town Halls will uplift local leaders' efforts within the issues of immigration, health, housing, education, environmental justice, land use and planning and the digital divide—the SJVHF IHHEEL policy platform.

Pictured above: Several youth representing Loud for Tomorrow at Equity on the Mall in April 2023.

Roundtable with Black Child Legacy Campaign and Attorney General Rob Bonta

California's new Office of Gun Violence Prevention is meeting with community violence intervention and prevention advocates throughout the state to learn more about the successes and barriers surrounding gun violence prevention. Sacramento was the first stop in their tour and our Black Child Legacy Campaign partners were asked to speak as panel experts. Program Officer Jedida Gomes explained why we need long term funding that will help us strategically invest in multilayered violence prevention rather than simply reacting to violence in Sacramento.

Pictured above: Jedida Gomes, The Center's Black Child Legacy Campaign Program Officer with Attorney General Rob Bonta on January 29.

In Case You Missed It: From The Center's Offices

We've grown a bit since you last saw us: four new full time staffers have joined our team. We're thrilled to welcome these talented new folks to our organization and can't wait to see how they'll help carry out our powerful mission and equity centered values.

We're joined by: Joseph Fox-Sowell, Program Associate for Healthy Youth Development; Tairiq Marshall, Program Associate for California Funders for Boys and Men of Color; Daniel Sunkari, Communications Officer; and Lisa Weir, Senior Digital Communications Officer.

Please share our latest funding opportunities with your networks. We've released two new RFAs: the first RFA is designed to support organizations working on evidence-based models and promising practices for foster youth in California who are experiencing substance use disorder. The second RFA supports opioid use disorder access in rural areas, justice-involved communities, indigenous communities and more.

We recently posted both RFAs to our LinkedIn page, which is a great place to connect with us.

Join us in our mission to promote health equity across California. We currently have three exciting job openings and are seeking passionate individuals to join our team. Help us spread the word by sharing these opportunities with your network. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of underserved communities.

Stay connected with us this Black History Month and follow us on Instagram for updates, insights and stories highlighting the vital contributions of Black leaders and communities in the fight for health equity. Join the conversation as we celebrate and honor their legacies while continuing to advocate for a more equitable future. Don't miss out—follow us today.

Experience the journey with us and watch our short film. We're celebrating 10 years and beyond of impactful work and look forward to a future of continued progress. Watch us reflect on our community's achievements and envision the path towards greater health equity for all Californians. Don't miss this special glimpse into our mission and impact.