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Sunday Friends 2024 Update
Dear Friends,
As we come to the end of the year we’re excited to share updates from our work here at Sunday Friends. Throughout the year, we've focused on initiatives that have prioritized health, well-being, and creating meaningful opportunities to lift families out of poverty. A few examples include our 'Inside Poverty' Panel & Silicon Valley Kindness Awards, Protecting Our Planet Together partnering with California Coastal Commission, collaborating with the City of San José Parks Department to implement critical opioid overdose prevention, and launching Dream. Build. Mentor (DBM) Lab a family entrepreneurship program.
These efforts have resulted in increased community partnerships, expanded access to essential resources and promoted health equity for all. By hosting informative events, convening leaders in the field, investing in education, and providing direct support, we've been able to address systemic barriers that prevent families from achieving their full potential. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our volunteers and supporters like you.
Inside Poverty Panel and Kindness Awards
This amazing first-time event featured a thought-provoking “Inside Poverty” panel, where leaders and changemakers gathered to discuss the complexities of poverty and explore innovative solutions. Following the panel, we honored individuals who embody the spirit of kindness and paid tribute to our founder, Janis Baron, whose vision continues to inspire our work. Sunday Friends is a movement dedicated to empowering families and breaking the cycle of poverty. Your partnership is crucial to our mission.
Empowering Families to Rise: Sunday Friends Launches Dream.Build.Mentor. (DBM) Lab Family Entrepreneurship Accelerator
Building on a 27-year legacy of supporting families in breaking the cycle of poverty Sunday Friends is thrilled to announce the launch of DBM Lab on Sunday November 3. In partnership with Santa Clara University's MOBI (My Own Business Institute), this groundbreaking family entrepreneurship program is designed to support the entrepreneurial spirits of the families we serve. The program will train 24 parent-child teams to develop and launch their business ideas with the help of a mentor that will ensure business support and a service coordinator focused on connecting to health and wellness services.
Sunday Friends: Protecting Our Planet, Together!
We are grateful to the California Coastal Commission Whale Tale for their support of Blooming in Nature - our environmental stewardship program. This program equips families with the knowledge and skills to become environmental champions. Through educational workshops and hands-on coastal experiences, families will learn about recycling, ocean health, and coastal protection, and be inspired to act for a greener planet.
Lifetime Award to Janis Baron
Sunday Friends, founded by Janis Baron, is a testament to the power of community and compassion. Inspired by a deep belief in the interconnectedness of all people, Janis created a program designed to break the cycle of generational poverty. By providing education, skills training, and financial literacy programs, the organization equips families with the tools they need to achieve economic independence. Janis's vision, coupled with the dedication of countless volunteers, has transformed lives, and continues to inspire a movement of compassion and change.
The Holiday Shopping Spree is Back!
For over 15 years, the Holiday Shopping Spree was more than just a holiday event; it was a testament to the power of human connection and the transformative impact of generosity. We are happy to announce we are bringing it back! Your participation will directly support this heartwarming tradition, ensuring that families can choose meaningful presents for themselves and their loved ones. The Holiday Shopping Spree empowers our families to experience the joy of giving, fostering a sense of self-worth and belonging. Sign up here!
Opioid Prevention
The grant will allow Sunday Friends to target high-risk communities in San Jose, including the 95112-zip code. We'll work with families at Santee Elementary and the Bonita Project Hope neighborhood. Our goal is to empower 500 individuals with knowledge, skills, and resources to prevent opioid overdoses. Through workshops and open communication, we'll equip families to address this complex issue. We'll measure our program's success to ensure its effectiveness. With your support, we can make a significant impact on families in San Jose.
A Heartfelt Thank You
As we embrace the new year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your continued support. Your contributions of time and funds to Sunday Friends are essential in advancing our efforts to ensure every family is able to lift out of poverty. Together, we’ve made incredible strides, and we look forward to another with even more successes to share.
Thank you for being part of our community and for standing with us on this transformative journey of kindness, hope, and change.
Tatiana J. Colón-Rivera, MPA
Executive Director
PS: I dedicate this year in honor of Mrs. Betty Anne Johnson, a beloved supporter of Sunday Friends. Her selfless acts of kindness and unwavering support will forever be remembered. We are deeply grateful for her legacy and will continue to cherish her memory.
