Thank you for taking time to learn about the work of the California Legislative Black Caucus Foundation. The CLBCF’s core mission is to educate, develop, support and empower current and future African American leaders in order to effectuate positive and sustainable change throughout California.

Indeed the need for CLBCF and its many programs is heighten by the current state of the California and national economy. As cuts are made to education and healthcare and as jobs are lost in all sectors of our economy, non-profit organizations are called upon to provide a safety net and to fill both a service and resource gap. I am pleased to report that CLBCF heeds that call and is assuming its responsibility to be a part of the solution.

Throughout 2008 and 2009, we have continued to focus on developing leaders and strengthening the organizational capacity of nonprofit groups which are working on the front lines to create jobs, eliminate health disparities and increase advanced educational opportunities for youth in underserved communities. Partnering with the California Legislative Black Caucus, CLBCF has successfully trained more than 1,000 executive directors, key volunteers, lobbyists, non-profit board members, emerging leaders and policy makers through programs such as Project B. U.I. L.D. (Blacks United in Leadership Development), Advocacy in Action, Health and Education Summits, our Summer Internship Program and Annual Conference.

The entire Board of Directors of CLBCF is mindful of the fact that our vision and mission are inextricably tied to that of the Legislative Black Caucus. We continue to work hand in hand with caucus members as they address critical issues that impact their constituents throughout the state.

We are also eternally grateful to the many corporate and foundation partners that have embraced our vision of empowered communities and who have made a commitment to our various programs.

Again, thank you for your interest in the CLBCF. I invite you to be a part of our exciting and vital work. By partnering with us, together we can restore luster to the Golden State.

Sincerely,

Areva Martin
Chair, California Legislative Black Caucus Foundation