At A Better Way, Inc. our commitment to fostering a sense of community and promoting cultural humility is at the heart of everything we do. This Juneteenth, for the fourth time, our team members proudly participated in the Berkeley Juneteenth Festival, celebrating freedom, history, and the ongoing journey towards equity and justice.

Thank you to our amazing Team for their dedication and enthusiasm in making this event a resounding success, namely: Mark Pasley, Communications & Marketing Manager; Antonio Perez, Parent Engagement Program Parent Advocate; Monica Dirr, San Francisco Mental Health Program Director; Michaela Lantin, Permanency Intake Placement Specialist; Tatiana Stewart, Permanency Program Director; Mary Mbugua, Permanency Program Social Worker; Marshae Glenn, Parent Engagement Program Parent Advocate; and Alfonso Almendariz, Solano County Probation Program Mental Health Clinician

We are deeply grateful for each one of you!

A Day of Celebration and Connection

Our Team members staffed a booth at the festival, actively engaging with the community we serve. The vibrant atmosphere was filled with music, dance, and the joyous spirit of Juneteenth. Our booth became a hub of activity, attracting families, children, and community members interested in learning more about our mission and how they can get involved. Children particularly enjoyed our facepainting talents!

Engaging Potential Resource Families

One of the key highlights of the day was connecting with potential resource families. Our team shared information about the foster care system, the needs of children in our care, and how families can provide the stable, loving environments these children deserve. The festival provided a unique opportunity to have meaningful conversations with community members who may not have been aware of the ways they can support foster children.

Embracing Community Festivities

In addition to our outreach efforts, our staff fully embraced the day’s festivities. We participated in traditional Juneteenth activities, enjoyed local food vendors, and danced along with live music performances. This active involvement allowed us to not only celebrate Juneteenth but also to deepen our connections within our team, across programs and departments, and within the community we serve.

Reflecting on a Joyous Juneteenth Celebration

As we look back on the festival, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the rich heritage and significance of Juneteenth with our neighbors. This year again, our experience at the Berkeley Juneteenth Festival reaffirmed our commitment to serving children in foster care with empathy, respect, and a deep appreciation for the diverse backgrounds and experiences of those we serve.

Thank you to everyone who visited our booth, shared their stories, and celebrated with us. Together, we continue to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Remember we are headquartered right here in Berkeley and serve children across the Bay Area! We look forward to many more celebrations and opportunities to connect with our community.

By Anne Grascoeur, Chief People Officer