Community Capacity Building
We’re continuously striving to improve our community and add capacity to fulfill the needs of our entire area.
Neighborhood-based work
Roots partners with community-based organizations to implement a model that integrates mental health and wellness supports for children, youth, and families; neighborhood beautification efforts; and career paths and employment readiness and exploration.
The 40×40 Initiative is a collaboration between Roots Community Health Center, Black Cultural Zone Collaborative and the Brotherhood of Elders Network.
“My goal is to help families reach their equilibrium again.”
Marriage and Family Therapist
Roots Behavioral Health Department
What is the 40×40?
In the heart of East Oakland, there is a roughly 40 by 40 block area (from Seminary Ave to the Oakland-San Leandro border, and from MacArthur Blvd. to the Bay) that is home to and a stronghold for over 30,000 people of African descent.
What do we do?
We are working together to improve health and quality of life for this area of East Oakland which is disproportionately affected by systemic and generational racism impacting the health and security outcomes of this community. As the demographics of Oakland rapidly change, and with the COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affecting our community, we find that time is of the essence in addressing these disparities.
People’s Advisory Council (PAC)
Beginning work in 2021, we began by forming the People’s Advisory Council (PAC), an advisory council made up of Black community leaders and residents who live in (or have lived in) the 40×40 with a vested interest and knowledge of the issues impacting their community. This council meets with our collaborative monthly to discuss the issues affecting them and their community thereby directing our work.
Strategies for the 40×40
Advocate for more resources & investments in the 40×40 to support our people & community for generations to come;
Understand community needs & gaps;
Map out and build on community resources & assets; and
Creatively express and share our stories and visions for Black health & safety, community, and belonging in the 40×40 through art and expression walls.
