Blue Shield of California Foundation

Although #BlackHistoryMonth has come to an end, our celebration of Black excellence and Black leadership reshaping philanthropy continues. One trailblazer we’re proud to spotlight is Janiece Evans-Page CEO of Tides. “We’re committed to uplifting and supporting those doing the work on the front lines. More than ever, we’re intentional about ensuring their voices are heard—amplifying their impact while also protecting them and the communities they serve.” This is what philanthropy should look like—centering those most affected, shifting power, and creating real pathways for healing and justice. Read the full conversation Shikiri Hightower-Gaskin had with Janiece, and let’s continue to uplift Black visionaries shaping our collective future. #EquityInAction #BlackLeadership #BlackExcellence https://lnkd.in/g6N3GP5f

“Suddenly you realize ‘I need to escape. I’m not safe here anymore,’” Yenni Rivera said as she explains how anyone can find themselves in a domestic violence situation.?“What do you do when that happens? If we don’t care and we don’t change and improve the system, when we need the system, it’s going to be broken.” Domestic violence and homelessness are inextricably linked. We cannot solve one without addressing the other. This LA Public Press story dives deep into the barriers that survivors of domestic violence face when trying to find safe and stable housing and elevates solutions that can address these two issues together. https://lnkd.in/gzPuwaC8

Are you commited to creating a California where everyone has the opportunity to lead healthy and safe lives? So are we! We believe that domestic violence and inequities in health are caused by deep-rooted, systemic issues—namely gender and economic inequity, and racism. And now, it's more important than ever to stand with the communities we serve. Our "Intersections" newsletter offers insights on health equity and domestic violence prevention work happening across our state. Subscribe to stay informed and join the conversation: https://bit.ly/3XkKnGP

Learn how to support immigrant domestic workers! If you employ a housecleaner, homecare worker, or nanny, you have a?unique opportunity?to show up for immigrant workers. Join this training next week on Sanctuary Homes, led by our friends at Hand in Hand,?to learn critical strategies to foster safety. This training involves: · Understanding Sanctuary Homes & Immigrant Rights · Building Trust & Fair Employment Practices · Roleplay & Practical Support Strategies Sign up here:?https://lnkd.in/gJYgYqUQ

This #BlackHistoryMonth, we’re proud to spotlight the incredible Black leaders in California who are driving change in health equity. Take, for example, Vabren Watts, Ph.D. with Health Affairs A powerhouse in health policy and science communication, Dr. Watts has been breaking down barriers and making sure communities of color have the information they need to advocate for their health. With a Ph.D. in pharmacology and postdoctoral training from Johns Hopkins, he’s dedicated his career to making complex medical and policy issues understandable and accessible for everyone. “Changes in administration often bring changes in policies. It is imperative that we work to inform communities of those changes and explain—through research and thought-leadership—how it may impact them,” he said. His work reminds us that knowledge is power—and staying informed is key to achieving health equity. #HealthEquity #PolicyMatters

The first two months of this year have been hard. I'm feeling it, my staff and colleagues are feeling it, and so are family and friends. While we're working hard at Blue Shield of California Foundation to respond to the current environment, I'm looking to uplift stories of resilience and elevate the things that are keeping me going lately. Some of those are ... ??We've spent some really important time together as an organization, re-grounding ourselves in our core values and reaffirming our commitment to the communities we serve. This is keeping me inspired and more to come on this soon. ??There's a lot of good happening here in California. This week, I was reminded of this by the confirmation of Kim J. as Secretary of Health and Human Services in a unanimous vote by the CA Senate. Though we celebrated her appointment months ago and I've seen her already doing great work, the news of the vote reminded me of the good partners we have working to improve systems and staying the course in our shared goals. ??Celebrating Black History Month. While I love to see us uplifting Black leaders and the work of our grantees this month, I was reminded by a great partner that Black history is 365 days a year. ??Today is National Caregivers Day and throughout the day, I've seen so many stories uplifting care and the different role it plays in so many lives. While everyone has their own unique care story, care connects us all. There is such power in community and storytelling is more important than ever. I'd love to hear what is inspiring you during these times.?Please feel free to share!

Today we celebrate National Caregivers Day by honoring the caregivers in our lives. Our Bernadette Choudhary shares her care story and the role care has played in her family across generations—a story that resonates with many. The care movement requires our collective support. It impacts each and every one of us. Care is about people and the connections between us. Care is love. It is essential, and it connects us all. Who are you celebrating today? https://lnkd.in/g9_MwifJ

Join us with Grantmakers In Health tomorrow at 11 am PST to learn more about the critical connections between tax equity, health equity, and family well-being. https://lnkd.in/ghUCKXSJ

Last week at Redwood Heights Elementary School in Oakland, our Communications Officer, RocQuel Johnson M.A., joined fellow volunteers for the yearly African American Read-In, an event sponsored by the Oakland Public Education Fund. RocQuel partnered with another volunteer to read "Parker Looks Up" by Parker and Jessica Curry to Ms. Lavender’s 1st-grade class, sharing a powerful story of inspiration, representation, and the magic of seeing yourself reflected in history.?The books where then donated to each class. This event is part of the commitment to uplifting Black voices and encouraging a love of literacy in young minds. What are your favorite children's books to share this month?

Help spread the word to the communities you serve! This tax season, families can do their taxes with ease AND get more money using Direct File. Many non-filers, typically the lowest income households and disproportionately people of color, are missing out on the tax credits and benefits they qualify for.?To address this, last year the IRS created a new tool called Direct File to help overcome the complexities of filing a federal tax return. Over 33,000 Californians utilized this tool last year and saved millions of dollars in filing fees alone! Our friends at United Way Bay Area are hosting a webinar series on Feb 18 and Feb 20 to learn about the IRS Direct File tool. Share this resource to help more families get more money in their pockets this tax season. Webinar Registration Link: https://lnkd.in/guVYQ7Sp Learn more about Direct File and other resources: https://lnkd.in/grfdvNiw