Familias en Accion

FRESNO DRIVE INITIATIVE: Enhancing community well-being through environmental cleanups school supplies and food distribution, community events, each aligning with the mission of the DRIVE initiative to promote race equity and foster a healthier, more sustainable Fresno community. Under the DRIVE grant, Families en Accion conducted over 50 community cleanup events throughout the Fresno region. This included the removal of over 90,000 pounds of waste and counting, with a focus on hazardous materials, trash, and debris. These efforts directly contributed to safer, cleaner, and more livable neighborhoods, specifically in underserved areas. Of these cleanups, over 10 were executed in collaboration with Beautify Fresno to amplify community impact. This activity aligns with the DRIVE initiatives mission to create a healthier, more vibrant community, with race equity embedded in every step to ensure these benefits reach marginalized black and brown communities in Fresno. Families en Accion furthered its commitment to economic inclusion and support by hosting dozens of food distribution events, partnering with Fresno Metro Ministry and the Central California Food Bank. Through these efforts, the organization distributed thousands of pantry packages to families facing food insecurity, specifically over 10,000 food items and materials. Packages also contained medical supplies necessary to fight the COVID pandemic. This program addresses a critical need for accessible, nutritious food & material in low-income areas and reinforces the DRIVE initiatives emphasis on sustainable economic support for underrepresented communities. In line with the DRIVE initiatives commitment to race equity, Families en Accion prioritized community engagement to foster inclusivity and trust within the marginalized communities it serves. Through outreach efforts, the organization provided essential services and resources to residents, ensuring alignment with the DRIVE initiatives shared vision of equitable access to basic necessities and safer, cleaner living environments.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZING AND FAMILY EMPOWERMENT THROUGH UCLAP: As part of the UPLAN Campaign Learning and Action by Parents (UCLAP) initiative, the organization formed a dedicated group of parent advisors to co-develop the campaign?s mission, values, and vision. These advisors worked to ensure equitable access for English learner families by addressing translation issues, demystifying district resources, and advocating for clearer financial communication. Additionally, the organization convened a general parent group that met monthly - holding a total of 10 meetings ? and participated in three advocacy presentations to Fresno Unified School District. General parent members committed to reporting inadequate school-level translation services, further reinforcing systemic accountability. Staff and parent leaders participated in peer learning, facilitated trainings, coaching sessions, and in-person collaborative activities centered on supporting youth from underrepresented groups. The initiative empowered over a dozen families to engage in leadership development, advocacy, and institutional outreach, laying the groundwork for continued engagement and a future retreat to sustain momentum post-campaign.