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Providing a "gathering space";  a beacon of hope for our community where individuals can find services, support, and a sense of belonging.Community leaders play a crucial role in shaping the future of their neighborhoods. They are the visionaries, the bridge builders, and the driving force behind positive change. Their dedication inspires others, creates opportunities, and fosters a sense of unity within the community.Community leadership is pivotal in fostering societal cohesion, resilience, and progress. Whether organizing events, advocating for social justice, or spearheading initiatives for positive change, influential community leaders catalyze collective action. Their ability to inspire, empower, and unite others...

The City of Bremerton is seeking professional services from qualified contractors for the purpose of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) consulting services beginning in June 2023. The City’s needs are outlined in the  request for proposal (RFP). Proposals due by May 1, 2023 Proposed actions and basis for the request for proposal: The City expects the following to be included in the Scope of Work and proposed budget: Stakeholder Engagement (Internal and External); Strategic Planning; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Position; and Race Equity Advisory Commission. Stakeholder Engagement (Internal and External) The goal is to ensure that all stakeholders have...

Have you been in business for at least two years? Are you ready to grow your small business? Are you interested in contracting opportunities with the Federal government? April 12, 9-11am PDT - online The federal government aims to award 13 percent of all federal contracting dollars (15% by 2025) to certified small, disadvantaged businesses. You may be wondering, what are the benefits of 8(a) certification? By getting certified as an 8(a) small business, you may compete and receive set-aside and sole-source federal contracts, receive one-on-one business development assistance, connect with procurement and compliance experts who understand...

Seattle City Council names its first Indigenous Advisory Council KUOW - Seattle City Council names its first Indigenous Advisory Council On Tuesday, the City Council unanimously approved the nominees, who will advise city officials on issues and policies that directly affect Indigenous peoples. The new council includes an Indigenous youth, an elder and representatives of some tribes and urban Indian organizations. Council President Debora Juarez , who is a member of the Blackfeet Nation, says the IAC is a historic move for the city. "I can't tell you how nice it is to have all...

The Washington State Department of Commerce is seeking a consultant to develop a community reinvestment plan. The role will be responsible for describing how funds will be distributed to communities statewide. Funds are intended to address racial, economic, and social disparities created by the historical design and enforcement of state and federal criminal laws and penalties for drug possession.   Application timeline •    Proposals due: 5 p.m. Friday, July 15 •    Estimated contract period: Aug. 16, 2022 – June 30, 2023 Download RFP   Questions? Contact the RFP coordinator, Angie Hong at...

APPLY TODAY The application period for the third round of the Ready for Business Fund is now open and will close on Sunday, June 26, 2022. The Ready for Business Fund was established to help level the playing field for communities that have been historically marginalized. Priority will be given to small businesses within the communities that historically have less impact to resources through entrepreneurship and are impacted by systemic barriers, including those owned by LGBTQ+ people; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color; and women, as well as businesses located in rural areas.  Businesses who...

A Journey of Survival and TransformationDarryl Riley's story is one of survival, resilience, and transformation. Growing up in poverty on Chicago's West Side, Darryl faced challenges that many Black males in America know all too well. Despite a difficult childhood in a broken home and the harsh realities of life in a marginalized community, Darryl worked hard in school, hoping to rise above his circumstances. However, a wrongful felony conviction at just 16 years old disrupted his dreams and thrust him into a cycle of incarceration and struggle.Darryl's life took a significant turn during the War on Drugs in the...