San Leandro resident Thomas R. came to United Way’s SparkPoint Oakland Center because his family was struggling to adapt to changes in their economic situation. Job loss, and subsequent re-employment at a lower salary, meant that they were struggling to make mortgage and credit card payments, and were having a hard time getting used to [...]
SparkPoint Oakland Center Celebrates 300th Client
June 24, 2010 by
United Way’s SparkPoint Oakland Center recently served its 300th client. To celebrate their success, SparkPoint staff, volunteers and clients gathered at the Center for an evening of food and fun. Click below to see a photo slide show from the celebration. This exclusive event was especially for SparkPoint members – clients who have utilized at [...]
Saving for College and Beyond
September 28, 2009 by
Recently, SparkPoint American Canyon Center was profiled in the Contra Costa Times. The article highlights some of the services offered, including job search assistance, credit counseling, and helping people becoming financially literate so they can take control of their finances and their lives. SparkPoint American Canyon Center is currently in its pilot phase, and is [...]
Raising A Reader Creates a Love of Books
July 9, 2009 by
United Way’s Raising A Reader is a proven early literacy program that strives to break the cycle of poverty by empowering low-income families to create book-sharing routines. Research shows that sharing books with young children, age 0-5, promotes early brain development, stimulates social and emotional growth, and inspires a life-long love of learning and books. [...]
Safe Spaces for Oakland Youth
September 7, 2006 by
Two years ago, Jasmin Huntsberry was playing tag on the front lawn of her grandmother’s East Oakland home, when gunshots rang out nearby. She snatched up her younger cousins and ran into the house to safety. Convinced that “kids can make a difference,” Jasmin, a student at Castlemon High School in East Oakland, has since [...]
