Dear Oakland Leaf Community,
Reflecting on the 2023-2024 school year, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the collective efforts of staff, students, families, and supporters. This year has been a testament to the resilience and dedication that define the Oakland Leaf community.
The mission to cultivate community transformation through creative education and youth empowerment has guided us through growth, challenges, and remarkable achievements. Our programs continue to prioritize youth agency, ensuring that every student feels valued, acknowledged, and celebrated
In afterschool programs, students led community impact projects, ranging from advocating an end to violence to preparing brown bags for the unhoused They participated in activities like “Emotional Control,” learning strategies for self-care, healthy dialogue, and conflict management. We saw youth find their spark through various enrichment opportunities. The joy experienced by students at Cleveland Elementary and EnCompass Academy when winning the 2024 Oakland Poetry Slam, hosted by America SCORES, is one of the many highlights from this year.
Internship programming allowed interns to develop social-emotional and professional skills while experiencing firsthand what it means to be an educator. They supported afterschool students with reflection and facilitated activities. The power of giving back was evident when volunteering with Community Kitchens for the Feed the Hood Event, packaging 1,300 pasta salads We are proud of the ways youth have stepped up as leaders and change-makers.
Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to our mission, focusing on empowering youth, fostering belonging, and creating opportunities for students to thrive.
Much Love,
Melissa Mendez Ochoa Executive Director
P.S. As you explore this annual report, I hope the images and stories within fill you with the same joy students experience every day Deep gratitude goes to the generous community partners, donors, and funders who make it possible to create these joyful spaces.
OaklandLeaf’scorevalues OaklandLeaf’scorevalues guideeveryaspectofourwork. guideeveryaspectofourwork.
Weplantseedstogrow. Weplantseedstogrow. Werootin,riseup,andbranchout. Werootin,riseup,andbranchout. We’recommittedtostay. We’recommittedtostay.
CULTIVATION: We acknowledge, honor and nurture potential by providing space for growth. We look to the future.
COMMUNITY: We create safe space filled with Much Loves, support, healthy relationships, celebration and breaking bread.
VOICE: We hear, respect and develop voice and creative expression. We provide opportunities for input and accountability for ourselves and others.
CRITICAL THINKING: We embrace the process of challenging the dominant narrative. We believe in the power of reflecting, questioning and digging deeper with intention.
LOVE IN ACTION: We are rooted in love, transformational justice and restorative practices. We see the whole person. We practice peace, self care, and empathy.
AFTERSCHOOLPROGRAMS AFTERSCHOOLPROGRAMS
Oakland Leaf serves as the lead agency for seven high-need elementary and middle school sites, providing high-quality afterschool programming to more than 950 students this year. Programming emphasizes socialemotional learning, critical thinking, academic support, and enrichment opportunities. These enrichment opportunities focus on three areas: art and culture, health and wellness, and STEM, including classes in soccer, poetry, drawing, gardening, theater arts, hip-hop dance, bike club, painting, basketball, DIY crafts, and more
We currently offer afterschool programming at seven schools throughout Oakland: ASCEND, Bret Harte Middle School, Cleveland Elementary, EnCompass Academy, International Community School, Learning Without Limits, and Think College Now.
of our afterschool youth state that the Oakland Leaf afterschool program is a safe and supportive space for them
of our afterschool youth stated they got the opportunity to engage in something new this year
of our afterschool youth this year stated that the afterschool program is fun
of families said Oakland Leaf afterschool programs
of families said they are pleased with the Oakland Leaf afterschool programs
“My favorite thing about afterschool is that we get to do soccer and more fun activities and the teachers are really fun.”
- Rosemary, 4th Grader
“I enjoy when we go to class to do arts and crafts and hang out with friends. I really enjoyed the flower stamping activity we did with Ms. Adela where we used a plastic bag and paint to stamp and create flowers on our papers. ”
- Lila, 3rd Grader
“I enjoy going to after school because we play fun games that we like. Teachers ask us what our favorite games are and then bring them in for us to play.”
- Mia, 4th Grader
StoriesfromourSummerCamps StoriesfromourSummerCamps
“OPC 2024 at ICS TCN was a summer to remember. Students from diverse backgrounds came together for a transformative camp experience. From the moment they arrived, they were welcomed into a vibrant community where differences were celebrated and friendships blossomed.
The camp ’ s activities fostered teamwork, creativity, and personal growth, from team sports and expressive arts to exploring nature. Adventure day was a highlight, with three jumpers, snow cones, and a thrilling camp-wide water balloon fight
By the end of OPC, students gained new skills and confidence, leaving with lasting memories and friendships.”
-Paulina, TCN Program Culture Leader
“Students had a great time during our Adventure Day at Lake Del Valle. Their excitement on the drive up was palpable, and it only grew once we arrived.
They quickly changed into water attire and spent the day splashing, playing games with friends and staff, and enjoying lunch by the lake. It was a very hot day and nothing could have been more perfect than this joyful outing
Overall, OPC at Bret Harte Middle School offered students many new and exciting activities, providing a rich and fun summer experience”
-Merone, LCS Manager
At Oakland Leaf, we believe that when instructors and program staff mirror the cultures, communities, and experiences of the young people we serve, it helps cultivate an important sense of belonging, strengthens community connections, and encourages young people to see themselves as future leaders. ofProgram Managersare formerOLyouth participants ofProgram Directorsare formerOLyouth participants
ofOLstaff identifyaspeople ofcolor
ofOLstaffreside inOaklandand thecommunities weserve
22023-2024 023-2024
MuchlovetoourBoardofDirectorsfortheirexceptional leadership and unwavering dedication, which have been pivotal in guiding our organization towards remarkableachievementsandmakingalastingimpact forOakland’syouth.
KimBronson SourcingManager,Genentech
Shaelyn Dawson Partner at Morrison & Foerster
Monica Guzman, Board Chair Principal on Special Assignment, San Leandro Unified School District
Elizabeth Kim Investment Banker and M&A Advisor
Leo Kremer, Board Treasurer Co-Founder, Founders Table Restaurant Group
Debra Levinsky, Emeritus Board Member Retired Medical Doctor, Private Practice
Jose Luis Rodriguez, Alumni Project Manager, Growing Together
Steven Tindall Partner at Gibbs Law Group LLP
Stephen Walrod, Emeritus Board Clinical Psychologist, Private Practice
Lindsay Williams Administrative Director, UCSF Medical Center
Audrey Yang, Board Secretary User Experience Research Consultant
SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT
“Our charitable contributions are meant to help support the work of community organizations that share Berkeley Lab’s mission and values. One of the Lab's main priorities is to help to train the next generation of STEM professionals. We appreciate our partnership with Oakland Leaf, which allows us to bring STEM nights to schools within the Oakland Unified School District.”
-Berkeley Lab
This past year, Berkeley Lab organized science nights where their staff hosted different STEAM workshops for Oakland Leaf students. Students were able to participate in different activities like exploring circuits and conductive materials, launching bottle rockets, and coding activities. We are so grateful for Berkeley Lab’s contributions to Oakland Leaf programs, and we look forward to an impactful and imaginative partnership ahead.
"It is an honor to support Oakland Leaf in their important work. Every kid deserves the opportunity to express themselves and try new things in a loving and supportive environment. Oakland Leaf makes that happen for so many kids, every day."
-Leo Kremer
We are honored to highlight the exceptional support of Leo Kremer, a generous donor and our dedicated Board Treasurer. Leo’s leadership and strategic financial expertise have been instrumental in advancing Oakland Leaf’s mission. As a committed donor and regular table sponsor at our galas, Leo has significantly bolstered our initiatives, enhancing our afterschool programs and positively impacting thousands of young lives in East Oakland.
Leo grew up in the Bay Area and still resides here today. Leo co-founded Dos Toros Taqueria, spreading the region’s unique flavors to the East Coast. He also played music professionally for many years with a number of Bay Area bands, including Third Eye Blind.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Leo for his remarkable We extend our heartfelt thanks to Leo for his remarkable contributions and enduring belief in our work to create a contributions and enduring belief in our work to create a more vibrant and just Oakland. We are so grateful Leo is more vibrant and just Oakland. We are so grateful Leo is part of our Oakland Leaf family. part of our Oakland Leaf family.
Much love to our wonderful community of individual and institutional investors that make Oakland Leaf’s work possible. Your generous support has been the cornerstone of our achievements this year, thank you for your commitment and belief in our mission.
*This list reflects total donations and grants received from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024.
Visionary ($100,000+)
Crankstart
Sharon Simpson
Ambassador
($20,000-$99,999)
Anonymous Foundation
Dee and Richard Lawrence on behalf of Blake Lawrence
Koshland-Wachtel Fund at the San Francisco Foundation
Fox Family Fund at the East Bay Community Foundation
Walter and Elise Haas Fund
Advocate ($5,000-$19,999)
Agerter Judd Family Fund at the East Bay Community Foundation
Banks Family Foundation
Bernard E. & Alba Witkin Charitable Foundation
Brickyard Family Fund at the San Francisco Foundation
Debra Levinsky and George Lewinski
Elizabeth Kim
Joshua DeFigueiredo and Emmy Highsmith
Love Cultivating Assets at the San Francisco Foundation
Metrovation
Peter Danzig and Lava Thomas
Robbie Yohai and Paula Heller
Royal Coffee
Susan Peick
The Barrios Trust
The Clorox Company Foundation Fund at East Bay Community Foundation
The Nicholson Family Foundation
Toni Garrett
Wind River
Workday
Ally ($1,000-$4,999)
Altamont Education Advisory Board
Anonymous
Audrey Yang
Beneficial State Bank
Charles and Naomie Kremer
Deborah and Michael Lesser
Deborah and Robert Van Nest
Edward Hannemann and Anne Bodel
Erin Lewellen and Amy Jones
Frederick E. and Anne R. Barstow Fund at the East Bay Community Foundation
Gibbs Law Group, LLP
Janet White and Michael Clark
Jim Blume and Kathryn Frank
John Morehouse
Jose Luis Rodriguez
Julie and Fred Nachtwey
Kaiser Permanente
Kim Bronson
Laura Spiekerman and Nick Greene
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Leo and Lauren Kremer
Linda Assante and Marc Carrasco
Aggie Lewis
Alice Erb and Robert Harris
Angelo Rauseo
Bruce Linde
Carol Kusmierski
Cie Goulet and Amber Kristen Green
Daniel Banda
Danielle Bezalel
David Hanscom and Babs Yohai
David Siegel and Andrea Picchi
Deepa Neary
Mark Gordon
Martha Chase
Monica Guzman and Brenden Anderson
Nicholas and Kristin Walrod
Odiaka and Viet-Ly Gonzalez
Ordonez Agency, Inc
Pacific American Group, LLC
Peter Van Tassel and Cory Henrickson
Roselyne Swig
Sara May
Shaelyn Dawson and Alex Wortman
Sheila Sosnow and Richard Nagler
Sherry and Jack Delo
Star Grocery
Stephen Beal and Elizabeth Hoover
Steven Tindall and Jocelin Saks
The Green Family Charitable Fund
The Kevin Collins Fund for Children at the East Bay Community Foundation
The Lowell Berry Foundation
The Swig Company
Victor Bonfilio Partner
Deirdre Kidder
Ed Elkin
Edwin Eng
Eileen Keller and Craig Williams
Elaine and Ric Tombari
Elizabeth and Charles Farnsworth
Emily and Dan Loeb
Evan Miller and Elinor Buchen
Ferran Rodenas
Gail Camacho and Reuben Sana
Gonzalo Hidalgo
Partner (continued)
Heather Nguyen
Helene and David Buchen
Ito and Casey Ripsteen
James Hawley and Diane Ehrensaft
Jeremy Schoos
John Shaffer and Gita Patel
Jorge Escobedo
Judy Wofsy
Karyn Mandan
Kathleen Taylor
Kenny Lewis and Kat Daniel
Lindsay Williams
Lisa Reynolds
Lizzy Gropman and Lucas Carrico
Lorraine Lerman and Clyde Leland
Lynn Johnson
Marc Miguel
Marina Ortega and Shannon Coughlin
Mark and Helen Nakamura
Abigail Trillin
Alison Gilbert
Ana Petrovic
Andrew Claflin
April Saks and Destin Radder
Barbara de Janvry
Barbara Gordon
Barry Lesch
Bianca Negrete
Bob Milley
Briana Ledoux
Christine Flores
Courtney Celia
Cristina and Brian Borghi
Darryla and Dan McGrath
Matthew Grippo
Monica Chew and Chris Karlof
Nancie and Tom Hughes
Nicholas Ancel
Nichole Shelton
Omar Parra and Norma Pizano
Ronald Saks
Sam Alcabes
Scott Joftus and Cara Lesser
Stacie Chun
Stephen Baird
Suzanne Goodner-Veles
The Cariño Fund
The Sher-Right Fund at the San Francisco Foundation
Thomas George Wood
Thomas Peyton
Yvonne Cynthia Williams
Zachary and Catherine Berman
Friend ($1-$199)
David Judd and Kathryn Fitch
David Kessler and Nancy Mennel
David Woodard and Daryl Dean
Deborah and Bill Joost
Diego Duarte
Emiliano Sanchez
Emily Saks Balestra and Mark Balestra
Fresh Jamz
G.B. Levine and Marilyn Masters Levine
Gabriel Smith
Gap, Inc.
Gary and Didi Saks
Ila Deiss
Irene Wong
Jeff Clark
Friend (continued)
Jenifer Wines
Jennifer and Donald Bellenger
Jennifer Tang
Jessica Bishop
Jorge Gonzalez
Joyce Lee
Julie Tindall
Karen McClung
Katherine and Alan Reinke
Kerry Compton
Kristin Helé and Justin Defreitas
Leonel Gonzalez
Lizbeth Mendoza-Leon
Luis Mendez
Marcia Tanner
Margery Cantor
Mary Frank
Matthew Albers
Miriam Lavender
Nancy and Jeff Ward
Nancy Mueller
Natalie Blackmur
Norman and Donna Lederman
In-Kind Donors
49ers
Aggie Lewis and Jeremy Schoos
Alice Waters
Claire Meyler
Constance Hogenhout
Hog Island Oyster Co
IMS Consulting & Expert Services
Joan Mikkelsen
Julie Nachtwey
Kitava
Laura Spiekerman
Marc and Hazel Anker
Monica Guzman
Oakland Museum of California
Oakland Zoo
Pacific Pipe
Robin Henke
San Francisco Symphony
Pam Gelman and Rick Rosenbaum
Patricia and Michael Sullivan
PayPal Giving Fund
Reni and Don Harper
Richard Knox and Marian Steen
Richard LaFrenz
Ronald and Patricia Adler
Ruth Hedy Anne Fallenbaum
Samuel and David Tindall
Scott Kwan
Sharon Djemal and Peter Rukin
Sharon Drager
Stefan Highsmith and Evelyn Kawahara
Steven and Marion Fredman
Susan and David Princehouse
Susan Helmrich and Richard Levine
Todd Edelman and Marisa Nightingale
Tony Tran
Vickie Le
Walter Castro and Belen Reyes
William Dayton
Yusuf Al Bazian
Zach Reynolds
Shaelyn Dawson
Shannon Moe
Shomari Smith
Soulful Photography
The Cheeseboard Collective
The Oakland Athletics Community Fund
Toni Garrett
Warriors Community Foundation
Wind River
Yoshi's
Income for Service
Funding Partners
Education for Change
Oakland Fund for Children & Youth
Oakland Unified School District
