February 2025

Progress Newsletter

February marks Black History Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and honoring the profound contributions of Black individuals.

Black History Month is more than a commemoration—it’s a call to action. It invites us to acknowledge the innovative and often unsung ways in which Black communities have historically supported one another, driven social change, and fostered progress. It opens the space to elevate stories of trailblazers and everyday heroes who have made significant impacts, and to support ongoing initiatives that address the needs and aspirations of Black communities.

In honor of Black History Month, we’d like to highlight a few of the fiscally-sponsored organizations here at PVF doing important work supporting and uplifting Black communities through various lenses.

Giving Gap is the largest free searchable database of high-performing Black-founded nonprofits in the United States. Giving Gap’s 2024 State of Black Nonprofits Report highlights the unique strengths of nonprofit leaders, shedding light on our impact, challenges and opportunities. In honor of Black History Month, Giving Gap is partnering with Greengate and Mighty Cause to uplift and support five Black-founded nonprofits to help them strengthen their engagement with donors and close the giving gap.

Yuri Kochiyama's mission is to carry on her legacy through strengthening BIPOC solidarity; building community through art and activism; and providing learning resources for young people to promote anti-racism and to teach about the history and shared experiences of oppression and resistance by people of color as well as examples of successful multicultural community building efforts in the United States. In this current political environment of deepening racism and class divisions, the work of the Fund is to inspire grassroots activism and education, to connect organizations and communities to each other, and to “build bridges and not walls,” as Yuri often stated.

Photo courtesy of Yuri Kochiyama

Oakstop Effect is a charitable initiative that provides workforce development services to help people in Oakland succeed in the workplace and increases economic mobility for local communities by increasing their social capital.

Photo courtesy of Oakstop Effect

3Ls The Academy: In Oakland, California, where only 13% of Black and Brown children read at grade level, 3Ls (Literacy, Leadership & Liberation) is proving what’s possible when we reimagine literacy education through a lens of justice and community power. Founded by Oakland-born Dr. Sabrina “Bri” Moore, 3Ls promotes collective responsibility across schools and differences to realize our vision of communities where learning, literacy and leadership are interconnected towards liberation.

Isiain Foundation is dedicated to tangible relief when it comes to systemic racism and mental health resources. They believe that when you combine art, information and education with entertainment, technology and visibility there are no limitations to what can be achieved.

Photo courtesy of 3Ls The Academy

Fifteen Percent Pledge is a call to action organization for major retailers and corporations to join in creating sustainable and supportive ecosystems for Black-owned businesses. Black people make up 15% of the US population. So, Fifteen Percent Pledge asked businesses to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned brands.  

Oakland Thrives/Rise East Initiative is a 10-year collective effort to make deep and lasting improvements in the health and well-being of children and families in East Oakland. Once a middle-class community at the heart of the city, East Oakland is currently home to the majority of the city’s Black families living in poverty. Rise East embodies the belief that by prioritizing the well-being and success of children and families in this 40x40 block of East Oakland, we can create a ripple effect that uplifts and empowers all members of our city.

Let’s reflect on the power of collective action and the importance of supporting and amplifying Black voices!

This past weekend, PVF's Cayman Bentley had the incredible honor of speaking at the James & Ursula Williams Exhibit Presentation at the Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum. The event was more than just a tribute to two remarkable individuals—it was a powerful reflection on Black history, California Black history, and the ongoing impact of the Williams Family in Vallejo, CA and beyond.

The exhibit opening drew an impressive group of community and family members, educators, historians, and local leaders, all gathered to honor the Williams family’s legacy. Each of them shared reflections on the profound ways in which the Williams family shaped Vallejo and inspired future generations. Their words reinforced the idea that history is not just something we remember—it’s something we actively engage with and carry forward.

Savannah Lira, Program Manager, is responsible for program management and development, as well as communication materials at PVF. She is an AmeriCorps Alum and has a background in economic development and grantwriting.