As we outlined in a previous newsletter, RCF undertook a six-month process of organizational assessment, refocusing and restructuring. Our goal was to develop a plan to use our resources as efficiently as possible and to maximize our impact. Through the assessment process, we determined that our organization's strength was in mobilizing the power of connection to build healthy, thriving communities. 

Because of our new focus, we decided that RCF's image should also evolve into a new image that better reflects the work that we do. We ultimately came to the conclusion that the motto we use in our newsletters, "Together: Shaping the Future" is something we take seriously.  So, we developed an image that embodies that motto.

Our new logo depicts multi-colored people, symbolizing the diversity of our community, clasping hands in an infinity sign representing the power of connection and community.

Although our name is still Richmond Community Foundation, we have decided to use the moniker RCF Connects in the future, because it represents the work that we actually do.  Look for the changes in our name and image on our website, our marketing pieces and online accounts very soon. 

We look forward to connecting with you!

Finding affordable rental housing is a challenge across the Bay Area, and Richmond, California is no different.  Partnering with our city’s Code Enforcement Department and the EPA Brownfields program, RCF's Housing Renovation Program (RHRP) reclaims boarded up abandoned homes in Richmond to reduce the impacts of blight.  Then we provide opportunities for homeownership to local first-time home buyers. 

From the time we complete the restoration of a house, to the time a first-time homebuyer moves in, several months will pass. This means that the home will be vacant for sometimes several months.  With housing in such short supply and many in need of at least temporary housing, RCF has begun an innovative house sitting strategy.

This strategy provides individuals who are between housing or are waiting for permanent housing, an opportunity to have a safe, secure place to live, at no cost. Having our new homes inhabited, enjoyed and cared for by trusted house-sitters during this vacancy period also provides much-appreciated security for our homes.

Here is how it works.

1.  Richmond Housing Renovation Program (RHRP) interviews and screens people who are happy to care for and house-sit our newly renovated homes. 

2.  After screening, a house-sitter will be placed on a waiting list for the next available house to be permitted for occupancy. 

3.  RHRP contacts the house-sitter for availability. 

4.  If available, a house-sitter moves into the property, with clear instructions on the expected caregiving of each house and the expected length of stay.

5.  Upon close of escrow for the new homeowner, the house-sitter has a deadline date in which to vacate and can elect to move on to one of our next properties (if one is available at the time). 

Though this is a volunteer opportunity, we have found that allowing house-sitters to live rent free for a few months has helped many of our past volunteers to save for a rental deposit they can use toward permanent housing.  Currently, we have one property in need of a house-sitter.  

If you know of someone who would make a great house-sitter, please contact JBecker@RichmondCF.org to be placed on the list of volunteers.  

In RCF’s new Embodied Leadership Coaching program we acknowledge that all humans have a need for safety, belonging, and dignity.  When one of these is threatened, an immediate response is triggered in the oldest parts of ourselves: Fight, Flight, Freeze, or Appease. These knee-jerk responses to stress or danger are normal and have kept us alive, but are not always the most effective. We may want to respond differently to stress or conflict, but find ourselves repeating the same harmful behaviors. The Asaro tribe of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea has a saying: “Knowledge is only a rumor until it lives in the muscle.”

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their potential. Coaching deepens organizational capacity by supporting leaders as they apply their knowledge and embody their values in the midst of an organizational challenge or change.

RCF is happy to share that the organizations currently receiving this unique coaching are Bethel Community Service, Girls Inc. of West Contra Costa County, Groundwork Richmond, La Cheim School, Lead2Play, NIAD Art Center, and Project MARC (Making A Real Commitment) 25.

Please contact Joni Podschun, Director of Community Engagement & Collaboration for more information about "Embodied Leadership Coaching" at JPodschun@RichmondCF.org or call 510-234-1200 x 314

We also appreciate all the sponsors for the event. Proceeds support RCF’s programs in Contra Costa County. Platinum Sponsors: Courtyard Richmond-Berkeley, EPM Living/Gloria Scoggins, Josh & Elaina Genser, Morgan Stanley, Overaa Construction; Gold Sponsor: California Bank & Trust/Wealth & Fiduciary Services; Silver Sponsors: Cynthia LeBlanc, Backstrom McCarley Berry & Co., LLC, Mechanics Bank; Bronze Sponsor: Sustainable Energy Accelerators

We look forward to seeing you at the 4th Annual Great Taste & Adventure Winemaker and Chef Dinner in 2020, the date to be announced!

Please contact Stacey Street, Chief Operations Officer to be included in the 4th Annual Winemaker/Chef Dinner invitation list.  You may email Stacey at SStreet@RichmondCF.org or call 510-234-1200 x 302