In this episode, we’re talking about defending real community power. Real change doesn’t happen behind closed doors—it starts with the voices of everyday people, especially those who are often ignored. At RCF Connects, we believe that every voice matters, especially the ones that challenge the usual way of doing things.

We don’t build programs for communities—we build them with communities. That’s how we get real results. Defending community engagement is about more than just showing up. It’s about respect, power, and making sure no one is invisible in their own life.

RCF Connects is proud to stand strong for equity and inclusion, even during tough times. We’re a leader in Contra Costa County when it comes to community change and giving people a true voice.

Welcome our guests: Mariana Moore, Senior Director for Ensuring Opporunity, Armond Lee, Senior Director of Restoring Neighborhoods and Roxanne Carrillo Garza, Senior Director of Healthy Contra Costa. as they talk with our host Suzette Chaumette --we’re digging into how to keep doing this important work and how you can be a part of it.

Tune in to hear real stories, real impact, and real ways to make a difference.

We’re thrilled to welcome back our incredible host, Suzette Chaumette, who brings her signature warmth, insight, and passion to this special conversation.

Tune in as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the next 25 years of building a better, more connected future — together.

Listen now and celebrate with us!

Learn more by visiting our website at: ⁠www.rcfconnects.org⁠

Visit Suzette Chaumette and her work @ ⁠FoodIndy⁠

Audio edited by ⁠Onehitter Entertainment

Welcome to the first episode of a very special season!

This year, RCF Connects proudly celebrates 25 years of serving, connecting, and uplifting communities across Contra Costa County.

To kick off the season, we’re taking a heartfelt journey through our history with some of the people who helped shape it. Joining us are Jim Becker, our current CEO and longtime visionary leader; Betty Geishirt Cantrell, beloved retired staff member and champion for community voices; and Vern Whitmore, a former Board Member who helped guide our mission in its early years. Together, they’ll share behind-the-scenes stories, memorable milestones, and the powerful moments that helped RCF grow from a small community foundation into a regional force for equity and opportunity.

We’re thrilled to welcome back our incredible host, Suzette Chaumette, who brings her signature warmth, insight, and passion to this special conversation.

Tune in as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the next 25 years of building a better, more connected future — together.

Listen now and celebrate with us!

Learn more by visiting our website at: www.rcfconnects.org

Visit Suzette Chaumette and her work @ FoodIndy

Audio edited by Onehitter Entertainment

This episode sheds light on Housing First, a transformative approach to homelessness that provides immediate, stable housing as the first step to rebuilding lives. Our guest speakers, Shyla Crowder and Ashlee Rountree co-managers of RCF Connect's new Housing First Initiative, discuss who benefits most from this model, the challenges faced by those transitioning into stable housing, and the wraparound support services needed for lasting success. From mental health and addiction support to community-building and employment assistance, we unpack what it truly takes to empower individuals and families on their journey to stability. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how housing can be the foundation for hope, dignity, and opportunity.

Learn more about Housing First

OUR HOST:

Suzettte Chaumette, Public Healtth Expert, Founder of FoodIndy and professional podcaster. Find out more about Suzeete on her website - ⁠BeFoodIndy.com⁠ and check out her ⁠LinkTree.⁠

THIS SEASON's SPONSOR:

This episode is brought to you by the generous sponsors of our second season of Unpack the Real Stuff -- ⁠Miocar.org.⁠ Miocar, shaping the future of clean transportation!