From the desk of Executive Director Yolanda Randles

October 2024 Edition

October is a month dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, a cause that hits close to home for many, including myself. In May 2022, I faced a life-altering diagnosis that shook my world-breast cancer.

The journey through treatment and radiation was challenging, but today, I am grateful to be cancer-free. Yet, even with this victory, I find myself feeling anxious during my annual checkups. The lingering fear of cancer is a reality many survivors face, but it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of regular health checkups.

Just as I have learned to prioritize my health, we encourage our families to engage in regular health screening and stay informed about health issues.

Community engagement plays a vital role in health awareness initiatives. At the West Fresno Family Resource Center, we strive to create opportunities for families to participate in health education programs and events that promote wellness. By coming together as a community, we can empower each other to stay proactive about our health, ensuring that no one feels alone in this journey

As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I invite all families and community members to participate in our awareness activities, whether it's attending informational sessions, joining support groups, or simply sharing your own story, your involvement can make a difference.

Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Patricia Mendoza at (559) 374-5750 or (559) 981-1072

It's Time to Get Spooky

We are thrilled to welcome you to the West Fresno Family Resource Center's annual Trunk or Treat and Safe Night Out! This exciting event will take place on Thursday October 31. 2024 4:00-7:00 PM Between 1802 & 1805 E. California Avenue

As Halloween approaches, we understand the importance of providing a safe and fun space for our children to celebrate.

This event promises to be a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, enjoy festive activities, and create lasting memories, all while ensuring the safety of our students and community members.

More information

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Yolanda Randles at (559) 374-5750 or email yrandles@wfresnofrc.org

Register as a vendor for Trunk or Treat?

Vendor Form

Do you want to donate?

Donation Form

Join us for our upcoming workshop

Folleto en Espanol

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Hope Flint at (559) 374-5750 or email hflint@wfresnofrc.org

Healthy body, Healthy mind

The WFFRC Health Disparities team has concluded a successful second cohort of their Fitness Class series. The next cohort will be catered towards parents and their children aged 13 years or older.

This third cohort will begin on October 29th and run through November 26, 2024. Contact the Health Disparities team to register for the next 5-week fitness cohort.

5 Week Fitness Cohort Flyer

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Juana Santana at (559) 474-8438 or email jsantana@wfresnofrc.org

BLACK FARMERS CONFERENCE

Engaging farmers by providing valuable resources

The fifth annual Black Farmers Conference, co-hosted by the West Fresno Family Resource Center and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), brought together more than 200 farmers at California State University, Fresno, on September 27. This significant gathering highlighted the NRCS’ commitment to fostering community engagement and inclusivity among both urban and traditional farmers. As Christine Chavez, spokesperson for NRCS, noted the conference facilitated meaningful discussions about various programs, addressing both successes and areas for improvement.

A key takeaway from the event was the recognition of the need for specialized workshops to dive deeper into specific topics. In response, a dedicated workshop focusing on the Farm Service Agency and its loan and other programs will be sponsored by the NRCS, she said. The workshop reflects the concerns expressed by attendees.

“There was a lot of interest about that topic,’’ Chavez said. “This initiative is part of our ongoing effort to engage farmers and provide them with valuable resources.’’ Essienia Porter, Sweet Potato Project 2 Program Assistant, said the conference was uplifting.

“I truly enjoyed being a part of the coordinating committee. It’s always inspiring to see so many Black farmers from across the country and state come together to network, build relationships, and keep the African American farming culture alive and thriving,’’ Essienia said. “I was especially grateful for the opportunity to connect them with valuable resources and involve them in the Sweet Potato Project 2 harvest. It was important for our students to see people in agriculture who look like them and share similar experiences, fostering a sense of pride and belonging."

Chavez also said the NRCS wants to continue its partnership with the West Fresno Family Resource Center for future conferences.

Yolanda Randles, executive director of the resource center, concurred. She said the conference was a huge success.

“Together, we aim to ensure that all voices are heard and that our community remains actively involved in shaping the future of agriculture,’’ Randles said. “We encourage families and local farmers to participate in upcoming workshops and discussions, as their input is vital for continuous improvement.’’

The harvest was so sweet

On September 28, 2024, more than 50 students proudly participated in “The Harvest,” an exciting culmination of their efforts in the Sweet Potato Project II. This initiative, organized by the West Fresno Family Resource Center, brought together students, parents, local farmers, educators, and dignitaries from both local and state levels, all united in their commitment to empowering our youth.

The Sweet Potato Project is about much more than just cultivating crops; it represents a holistic approach to youth development. This year-long project specifically engages African American youth from Southwest Fresno, immersing them in the world of farming while imparting invaluable life skills. By providing a nurturing and safe environment, the project’s goal is to guide youth away from the risks associated with gang involvement, drugs, and alcohol.

“We believe that innovative programs, like the Sweet Potato Project II, play a crucial role in nurturing our youth and promoting their development in a safe and supportive environment,” said Patrick Hamilton, the sweet potato project manager. “I am so proud of our youth.’’

For more pictures of the Harvest, 2024 Harvest

The students will sell the potatoes at various events, including:

The Sweet Potato Festival, November 2, 2024, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., 700 Van Ness, Fresno, 93721, parking lot.

To purchase sweet potatoes or for more information, please contact Andre Smith, 559-981-9575

Sweet Potato Scramble

Swinging for a good cause

Andrew Randles and his dedicated golf team clinched victory for the second time in three years at the annual Sweet Potato Golf Scramble held

September 21, 2024, at Riverside Golf Course

“It was business as usual for us,” Andrew said. “We just look forward to the challenge. We are going for a three peat. All kidding aside - win, lose or draw, it’s all about helping the children of West Fresno to see something different.’’

The event drew participation from 13 teams, including students from Hampton University’s golf team, and Randles’ team of Luke S., Jordan Samuels and John.

Essienia Porter, Sweet Potato Project 2 Program Assistant, said the golf tournament was an incredible event.

“A heartfelt thank you to all the community members and sponsors who helped us to raise significant funds for our students' end-of-year activities,” she said. “Your donations and efforts are greatly appreciated, and we can’t wait to see you again next year. A special thank you to the West Fresno Family Resource Center staff for your amazing teamwork—you all rock!"

Money raised will go toward scholarships for high school seniors and for a Christmas shopping spree for youth that are enrolled in the Sweet Potato Project II, said Yolanda Randles, executive director of the resource center.

Yolanda Randles, executive director of the resource center, said she is particularly thankful for all the golf teams and the many sponsors who joined the event. The Central Valley Community Foundation was a major contributor, she noted.

“Your generosity and support truly make a difference," she said.

Congratulations to our employee of the month!

We are thrilled to announce that Juana Santana has been selected as our Employee of the Month for September. She has consistently demonstrated outstanding dedication, teamwork, and professionalism in her role as Administrative Assistant.

Thank you, Juana, for your hard work and dedication! You inspire us all.