WE DID IT! We raised $146,000! 

Thank you to ALL who made this Jazz it Up our best yet.


Our sold out event was unforgettable! Our annual benefit event, Jazz it Up!, had a record number of ticket sales and brought together 270 community leaders and elected officials at Yoshi’s!

The atmosphere was electric as guests enjoyed captivating jazz performances, delectable food, and a vibrant sense of community. Special thanks to our generous sponsors and community leaders for their unwavering support of Building Futures. The overwhelming turnout and enthusiasm demonstrated that, now more than ever, we must come together and make a meaningful impact.


Liz Varela, Executive Director, presented an award to Alameda Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft for her leadership in ending homelessness, expanding housing, and supporting survivors of domestic violence, with words from Assemblymember Mia Bonta and Supervisor Lena Tam. It was a special moment of recognition.


Guests were treated to mesmerizing live jazz performances by master keyboardist Steve Carter, bass guitarist Dennis Smith, drummer Billy “Shoes” Johnson, and percussionist Marquinho Brasil, featuring vocalists Tranisha Gold and local legend Fred Ross. It was truly a night to remember!


This year’s event, much like previous ones, showcased the incredible power of community. We not only raised critical funds but also strengthened bonds within our network of supporters.


We did it! Thanks to our community’s generosity, we met our matching gift goal, raising over $20,000 in total! An anonymous donor matched dollar for dollar the first $10,000 raised, effectively doubling our impact. Our raffle was also a smashing success!


Funds raised are already being put to work, helping individuals and families build new lives after experiencing homelessness and domestic violence.

If you have photos or want to share ideas or reflections, we want to

hear from you. Email Ana at development@bfwc.org

100% of the net proceeds from this fundraising event supports our homeless, domestic violence and housing services in Alameda County.


Our mission is to build communities with underserved individuals and families, where they are safely and supportively housed, free from homelessness and domestic violence