Dimond Neighborhood News

by Carrie Campbell and Kathleen Russell

Rising Oaks

By Carrie Dern, Project Manager

Established in 1891 as a Methodist orphanage by Duncan and Eunice Finch, the Fred Finch Youth Center (FFYC) is a landmark in Oakland. Encompassing eight acres at 3800 Coolidge Ave., just above MacArthur Blvd., the center was founded on the principle that no one, regardless of background, financial status, or personal challenges, should be neglected or forgotten. FFYC continues today to offer support to the most vulnerable children, youth, young adults, and families to create and sustain healthier lives.

Each year in Alameda County, two to three hundred young people age out of foster care homes. Based on national statistics, an estimated 40 percent of these young people will be homeless within the first year of leaving foster care, and half will be unemployed or underemployed. The Dimond District will soon include affordable housing for 30 young adults exiting foster care.

An early pioneer in the development of transitional housing for young adults at risk of homelessness, Fred Finch Youth Center will begin construction to provide affordable housing on their Coolidge Ave. campus. The project, Rising Oaks, formerly Emancipation Village, will also provide supportive services that promote vocational and educational success and wellness. The site will house a full-time resident manager.

Rising Oaks design received approval from the City Planners Office in 2010. FFYC has worked with the Dimond Improvement Association (DIA), adjacent neighbors, youth groups, and community stakeholders through the design and pre-development phases of this project. Construction will begin in December of this year.

The next neighborhood meeting will take place on December 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Fred Finch Youth Center, 3800 Coolidge Ave.

For information, www.fredfinch.org or CarrieDern@fredfinch.org.

Dimond Improvement Association

Community Meeting December 7

The second annual Game Night will be held on Wednesday, December 7, at the Dimond Branch Library, 3565 Fruitvale Ave., from 7 to 9 p.m. This event is a relaxing way to meet your neighbors and have some fun. The “Ask Stan” table will also provide an opportunity to ask questions about the Dimond District. This meeting is open to the public and children are welcome.

Support Local Food Bank

The Dimond Improvement Association’s goal is to raise $5,000 for the Alameda County Community Food Bank. The Food Bank turns each $1 donated into $5 worth of food. You can make a donation online at tinyurl.com/42l5fpn, or mail a check payable to “DIA” to Dimond Improvement Association, P.O. Box 27355, Oakland CA 94602. Write “ACC Food Bank” on the notation line of your check. The DIA will then make an online contribution in this amount.

Email comments to CarrieLCampbell@hotmail.com or krussell@russell-gordon.com.