Get ready to flip through the magic! Our Families United Semi-Annual Magazine is packed with highlights from January to June 2025—community celebrations, new programs, big wins, and heartfelt moments. From our Fresno launch and Easter fun to powerful partnerships and success stories, this issue is all about connection, joy, and the impact we’re making together!
2025 Semi-Annual Newsletter Families United Together We Can
Navigating Disability Services Support & Services Events & Highlights A Season of Impact: Our Favorite 2025 Moments So Far
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Disability Advocacy, Family Support, Community Events and More
A Note from our Director Intro
Dear Families, Friends, and Partners,
As we reach the halfway point of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished— together. At Families United, we believe that when families are seen, supported, and uplifted, communities thrive. Over the past six months, we’ve continued to grow our reach across multiple counties, expanded vital programs like our Literacy & Kindergarten Readiness initiative, and provided direct support to hundreds of families navigating complex systems like early intervention, IEPs, and regional center services. I’m especially proud of the ways we’ve stayed rooted in our mission: to provide culturally competent, compassionate, and community-driven support for children with developmental disabilities and their families. Whether it’s through advocacy, outreach, or simply showing up for one another, every milestone we’ve achieved has been made possible by your belief in our work. This newsletter highlights just a few of the stories, events, and programs that reflect the heart of Families United. I hope as you read through it, you feel inspired by the impact we’re making—and reminded that none of this would be possible without you.
With gratitude and purpose,
Dominique Mellion Executive Director
Page 02
✨ Meet the Visionaries Behind the Mission ✨
Families United Board of Directors: Guiding Our Path, Championing Our Purpose
At Families United, our Board of Directors plays a pivotal role in driving our mission forward with heart, integrity, and a deep commitment to equity and access. Each board member brings a unique perspective, lived experience, and professional expertise that helps shape the strategic direction of our organization—ensuring that our work remains grounded, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the communities we serve. From policy oversight and fiscal stewardship to strategic planning and community partnerships, our board leads with purpose. Their leadership has helped strengthen Families United’s footprint across California, grow our programs, and expand our reach— transforming lives through early intervention, developmental screenings, IEP/IPP advocacy, and family-centered navigation.
“Our board is more than just a governing body—they are champions, connectors, and changemakers.”
Whether celebrating milestones, showing up for community events, or helping secure new partnerships and funding, our board members embody the spirit of Together We Can. We are honored to work alongside such passionate and dedicated leaders who help us turn vision into action.
With heartfelt gratitude, we thank our Board of Directors for believing in our work and uplifting our families every step of the way.
2025 Board of Directors Maria Ramirez – Board Chair Dr. Melvin Newton – Board Member Dr. Rollington Ferguson, MD – Board Member Windy Khan – Vice President Jennie Ngo - Treasuer
Haley Garr, BCBA – Board Member Assata Olugbala - Board Member
Index
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Event Highlights
Best of San Leandro Mardi Gras Mardi Gras Photos Honoring Women Member Highlight Events & Highlights
04 05 06 07 08 09-15
Section 2 - Our Services
Success Stories Stockton Ports Partnership Expanding Our Reach Literacy Program Our Services Crossword Puzzle
16 17 18 19-20
In This Issue
21 22
Section 3
Section 3 - More
Connect With Us Donation Link Sponsors Crossword Puzzle Answers
23 24 25 26
Section 4
Donate Today!
Page 03
We were honored to start the year with a nomination for Best of San Leandro ! This recognition reflects the heart of our mission and the strength of the families, advocates, and community members who make our work possible. It’s more than an award — it’s a celebration of inclusion, resilience, and unity.
Page 04
Our biggest event of the year: Highlights from Our Mardi Gras Celebration Mardi Gras for an Impact This year’s Mardi Gras Fundraiser was a celebration to remember— filled with vibrant colors, joyful music, delicious food, and most importantly, a powerful purpose. Families, community members, and supporters came together to raise funds for programs that empower individuals with developmental disabilities through 1:1 navigation, early intervention, and advocacy. In honor of Black History Month, we proudly recognized five outstanding service providers who have stood alongside Families United since the beginning. These honorees are more than collaborators—they are trusted champions in the community, working every day to uplift and advocate for marginalized families. Their leadership and commitment have shaped the work we do, and their impact continues to inspire us all. Thank you to everyone who made this magical night possible. Your support ensures that our mission continues—because together, we can. Page 05
Mardi Gras Photos More Than a Party: A Day of Inclusion and Celebration Page 06
Women’s History Month, March 2025
Honoring Women Who Lead, Lift, and Light the Way
March was a time of reflection, recognition, and deep gratitude as we celebrated the resilience and leadership of women—past, present, and future. At Families United, we believe in honoring the women who not only break barriers but build bridges for others to cross. This year, our very own Executive Director, Dominique Mellion, was honored for her relentless advocacy and community leadership by three distinguished entities:
🏛️ The City of San Leandro 🏙️ The City of Stockton: Mayor Fugazi and Council 🏅 California State Assembly Member Rhodesia Ransom
These recognitions highlight Dominique’s tireless work to uplift marginalized families, create equitable pathways, and lead with purpose across multiple counties and communities. Her leadership is a reflection of every mother, advocate, educator, and change maker who continues to fight for a better tomorrow. As we reflect on Women’s History Month, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting and amplifying the voices of women—especially those who are too often unheard.
Page 07
Spotlight
Member Highlight: Celebrating Maya’s 50th Birthday
In April, we had the absolute joy of celebrating Maya’s 50th birthday, surrounded by her loving family, friends, and a community that cherishes her deeply. Families United was honored to co-host this special milestone for someone who inspires us all. Maya greeted her guests and said ‘I feel like a diva today!’ Maya is known for her vibrant spirit, unstoppable energy, and resilience. As someone living with Down syndrome, she has faced—and overcome—many challenges while navigating disability services with grace, courage, and determination. She is a proud graduate of our Navigators to Leaders program, she was once a dedicated Special Olympics athlete, and affectionately known as the dancing queen wherever she goes. Maya reminds us why celebration, inclusion, and advocacy matter. Her life is a beautiful testament to what’s possible when individuals are supported, seen, and celebrated for exactly who they are.
Page 08
Happy 50th, Maya! Your light continues to inspire us all! 💜
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Outreach & Highlights
We had the honor of meeting with Reverend Harry Williams and connecting with the Oakland Homies Empowerment organization—building bridges with changemakers committed to equity, justice, and uplifting our communities.
Powerful conversations at the Black Community Summit in Stockton, where our Executive Director co-facilitated dialogue with families and service providers to address barriers and build a more inclusive future. Grateful to our community partner, Yvette Baptiste and her team for creating this vital space.
Honored by the City of San Leandro, our Executive Director Dominique Mellion was recognized for her tireless leadership in advocacy, equity, and uplifting marginalized communities across California.
Families United joined the beautiful Black History Month celebration at St. Vincent’s Day Home in West Oakland —honoring culture, community, and the legacy of Black leaders through music, storytelling, and connection.
Page 09
Families United hosted a powerful Public Safety Panel under The Big Tent, bringing together families and local heroes for meaningful dialogue and stronger community connections.
Our Tracy Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt was a huge hit, with over 500 community members joining the fun! We were thrilled to be joined by Valley Mountain Regional Center as we
connected with families, shared resources, and celebrated the season!
Page 10
In partnership with The Big Tent, Families United hosted a community engagement event featuring Assemblymember Liz Ortega to tackle two major issues: workforce development and housing. Real talk, real solutions — all for thriving families.
Families United was proud to be an official vendor at the 2025 San Joaquin County Fair in Stockton—bringing resources, advocacy, and smiles to fair visitors from all over San Joaquin County and beyond!
Families United hosted 6 impactful workshops including a Special Needs Trust session with attorney Ellen Cookman and an Early Start, Developmental Milestones & IEP strategies workshops — empowering families with knowledge and tools to plan ahead and support their children’s growth.
Page 11
Families United joined the fun at the 4C’s of Alameda County Annual Children’s Fair in Hayward— connecting with families, sharing resources, and celebrating the power of early childhood education through play and community. There were over 1500 in attendance at this event!
Families United participated in the End-of-Year Transition Fair at Santa Fe School in North Oakland—supporting students and families as they prepare for the next steps in their educational journey with resources, guidance, and community connection.
we joined the San Leandro Police Department for their Autism Awareness Month Celebration, standing alongside Chief Averiett to champion inclusion, awareness, and community connection.
Page 12
We celebrated Easter in East Oakland with a vibrant egg hunt hosted by Block by Block—connecting with local families, spreading joy, and making memories in the heart of the community.
Spent a meaningful day at the Manteca Boys & Girls Club alongside our community partner, Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD—connecting with families, sharing resources, and strengthening support for children with autism in the Central Valley.
Cheered on the incredible athletes at the Special Olympics Torch Run alongside the Manteca Police Department— celebrating inclusion, determination, and the power of unified communities.
Page 13
More highlights from the Special Olympics Torch Run alongside the Manteca Police Department
Families United joined the excitement at the Special Olympics Torch Run hosted by the Manteca Police Department! We proudly hosted a community outreach booth and cheered on the incredible runners as they carried the flame of hope through the city. 💙 🔥
Page 14
In the Community...
Page 15
Families United Success Stories!
Success Story 1: IEP Breakthrough Through 1:1 Navigation A mother of a 6-year-old child with autism came to us overwhelmed and unheard by her school district. Through our 1:1 Navigation support, she learned her rights, submitted a request for an Independent Educational Evaluation, and confidently advocated at the IEP meeting. With our team by her side every step of the way, her child now has a strong support plan in place—and is finally thriving in the classroom.
Success Story 2: Grandmother Becomes a Leader A dedicated grandmother raising her granddaughter who has special needs enrolled in our Navigators to Leaders program to better understand the systems surrounding her care. With support from our 1:1 Navigation team, she successfully advocated for a stronger IEP and obtained Regional Center services that had previously been denied. Today, she’s a proud graduate of the program and continues to mentor other families navigating similar journeys.
Real Stories. Real Impact. Real Change. Donate Today
Page 16
Families United & Stockton Ports: A Home Run Partnership!
We’re thrilled to announce our exciting partnership with the Stockton Ports Baseball Team! Opening Night was a home run—we gifted tickets to 25 local families, many of whom experienced their first-ever baseball game. The joy was unforgettable! Now, we’re inviting you to join the fun & make an impact! Tickets are on sale now for Friends Night on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 7:05 PM. 🎟 $10 per ticket or Family 4 pack for $40 Families United is the Presenting Sponsor and 100% of ticket sales go directly to support our programs! 💜 Can’t attend? You can still support by donating tickets for a child in our community or making a contribution to our cause. You’ll also catch our Outreach Team at select games throughout the season—and we’re proud to sponsor the Play Ball Kid for even more magical moments at the ballpark!
Families United Friends Night on August 9, featuring a Friends-themed jersey giveaway — complete with our logo!
Page 17
Expanding Our Reach : Now Serving Fresno County
Our expansion into Fresno County began with a call from local leaders who saw how many families were still overlooked and underserved. Since arriving, we’ve provided 1:1 navigation support and will soon launch workshops and literacy programs for children and caregivers. In April, we even hosted an inclusive Easter Egg Hunt at Second Baptist Church, welcoming many children with disabilities from the community. We’re also creating paid learning opportunities for local high-school and college students who want to serve their neighbors. A heartfelt thank-you to Pastor Clinkscales and the Second Baptist family for opening their doors, to Cynthia Sterling, BWOPA President, for standing with us from day one, and to Trustee Keisha Thomas for going out of her way to share vital resources and connections that make this work possible.
Page 18
Introducing Our Literacy & Kindergarten Readiness Program We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Literacy and Kindergarten Readiness Program, proudly funded by our newest community partner—the City of San Leandro Human Services Department. This investment in our youngest learners is not only an exciting milestone for Families United, but a powerful step toward closing early childhood education gaps and preparing all children—especially those from underserved communities—for a confident and successful start to school. Currently, only 50% of children in San Leandro are kindergarten ready by age 5—a sobering statistic that highlights the urgent need for equitable early learning support. Our program aims to close that gap by offering free, culturally responsive literacy workshops and early learning sessions for children ages 1–5 and their families. Activities include themed read-alongs, story- based learning with take-home worksheets, developmental screenings, and parent education on how to support school readiness at home. We’re committed to fostering a love for reading, building early language and math skills, and empowering families to be their child’s first teacher. We are currently accepting book donations to help build home libraries for participating families and seeking volunteer readers who want to make a meaningful impact by reading to children during our events. If you’d like to support this work, please reach out—we’d love to have you join our growing circle of literacy champions!
Page 19
Page 20
Learn About Our Services
Page 21
Families United Crossword
Page 22
Connect with Us
Our online community is growing fast! Through social media, we’re sharing vital resources, uplifting stories, and creating a space where families feel seen, supported, and empowered—one post at a time. Follow us @FamiliesUnitedCa
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel where we’ll be uploading weekly videos and updates!
Page 23
Your Support. Their Future. 💬 “We came for resources, but we left with hope. Families United changed the course for my child — and for me.” — Parent, San Joaquin County We are committed to transparency, impact, and heart. Your donations fuel everything we do, and they ensure no family is left behind.
We appreciate you.
Donate Today!
Community partners
Appreciation to:
The Stockton Ports Department of Developmental Services (DDS)
Valley Mountain Regional Center (VMRC) Regional Center of the East Bay (RCEB) City of San Leandro Human services Department Assemblymember Liz Ortega Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom Alameda County Board of Supervisors-Nate Miley San Joaquin County Board of Supervisor-Robert Rickman City of Stockton Mayor & Council The Big Tent Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD St Vincent Day Home Santa Fe School Bright Stars Learning Bilingual Preschool Center Eastern Los Angeles Family Resource Center Alameda County First 5 4C’s Alameda County All People of Color Developmental Disabilities Association
Unified Compassionate Solutions Joious Beginnings Learning Center Game on Lakey Foundation Second Baptist church
Mars Coffee Cart BWOPA Oakland BWOPA Central Valley (Fresno) Sensore Block by Block Community Project East Oakland
Families United Crossword Answers
Page 26
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator