LOS ANGELES, CA— Over 400 women found empowerment, education, and real solutions to their menopausal concerns at the 10th annual WisePause Wellness Summit, held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Skirball Cultural Center. The milestone event brought together leading experts, brands, and voices in women’s health for a day filled with movement, mind-body renewal, and menopause-specific resources.

Attendees got moving with Lavinia Errico, Founder of MoveJoy in a high-energy session that ignited joy, strength, and connection that set the tone for the day. More than 30 top physicians, functional medicine practitioners, and wellness experts took the stage to address the full spectrum of menopausal symptoms and solutions—ranging from brain fog, sleep, and fitness to midlife sexual health, natural hormone alternatives, and skincare solutions as we age.

In addition to the robust speaker lineup, 34 innovative exhibitors showcased products and platforms designed specifically for midlife women, including beauty and cooling products, nutraceuticals, nutritional bars, and other wellness tools tailored to support the menopause journey.

This year also marked the debut of the WisePause Menopause Awards, honoring individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact in the menopause space:
•    Tamsen Fadal, Emmy-winning journalist, received the Menopause Trailblazer Award for her fearless advocacy and dedication to opening up the conversation around menopause;
•    CVS Health was recognized for its leadership in expanding access to women’s health solutions across the nation;
•    Halle Berry, award-winning actress and activist, was honored for her transparency, empowerment efforts, and commitment to changing the perception of menopause in mainstream media.

To cap off the day, attendees were treated to massage, acupressure, reiki, sound, hypnosis and other healing modalities at the Best Self Wellness Experience and Afterparty, which also included nibbles and libations.

Said Denise Pines, WisePause Wellness Founder, “We wanted this day to be filled with education, empowerment, solutions, but also fun for the ladies who attended.  Judging from the comments that we received from the attendees, we accomplished that goal.  It so fulfilling to have women come up and say that this event was life-changing—it keeps us striving to be ‘The Menopause Authority.'”

The 10th WisePause Wellness Summit proved once again that menopause is not a moment to fear, but a powerful stage of life to embrace—with the right knowledge, community, and support.

Sponsors for the WisePause Wellness Summit include Tea Botanics, AARP, Toyota and Alloy.

For more information on WisePause Wellness or to stay updated on future events, visit www.wisepause.com.

About WisePause Wellness:
WisePause Wellness is dedicated to revolutionizing the way women navigate menopause and midlife health by providing access to cutting-edge research, expert guidance, and holistic solutions. Through live events, digital content, and advocacy, WisePause continues to break barriers and empower women with the knowledge they need to thrive during every stage of life.

About Tea Botanics:
Tea Botanics is a medicinal tea and supplement company focusing on plant-based therapies for women’s health, including vasomotor symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia. To learn more, visit www.teabotanics.com or follow @teabotanics @hotflashtea

About AARP
AARP is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all as we age. We lead positive social change and deliver value to members through advocacy, service, and information to make things better for society and play a positive role in communities of all kinds.

About Toyota
We’re in the business of making great cars and trucks. But we also work every day to apply and share our know-how in ways that benefit people, the community, and our planet in order to build a better tomorrow.

About Alloy
Alloy Women’s Health is a direct-to-consumer menopause healthcare company, offering education, expertise, and safe, science-backed solutions for perimenopause & menopause symptoms, skincare, hair care, sexual health and weight care. Treatment plans are customized, everything is delivered (with free shipping!) straight to one’s door. Alloy members get unlimited follow-up care with their menopause-trained physician through the duration of their active prescription and access to community through member support groups, and more all from the convenience of their home.

ONTARIO, CA— The lights dimmed, the music swelled, and for one unforgettable night, every seat at Time for Change Foundation’s 23rd Annual Awards Gala became a front row to hope, resilience, and unstoppable impact.

Held at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Ontario, CA, the sold-out gala welcomed a powerhouse audience of civic leaders, advocates, and supporters for an unforgettable evening themed “Unwavering: Igniting Change, Inspiring Hope.” Attendees were deeply moved by the stories of transformation and the honorees who embody the relentless spirit of change in our communities.

Among this year’s esteemed honorees were Academy Award-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson, Grammy-nominated country star Jon Pardi, and Academy Award-nominated producer Chiara Tilesi, alongside a lineup of dedicated changemakers working across philanthropy, the arts, housing, education, and economic justice.

The 2024 honorees included:

• Richard Jeske – Nancy Verner Angel Award
• Ginger Ontiveros – Unsung Hero
• Jon Pardi – Humanitarian Award
• Chiara Tilesi – Women’s Global icon Award
• Lifting as We Climb – Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award
• Charisse Bremond Weaver & George Weaver – Dynamic Duo
• Taraji P. Henson – Philanthropist of the Year Award
• Michelle Decker – Community Champion Award

Each honoree was celebrated for their unwavering dedication to creating lasting change—whether through mental health advocacy, music, global storytelling, philanthropy, or grassroots organizing. Their stories inspired standing ovations and left guests motivated to be part of the movement.

“This wasn’t just an awards show—it was a powerful reminder of what happens when passion meets purpose,” said Executive Director, Vanessa Perez. “These honorees are shaping a better future, not just for themselves, but for entire communities.”

Proceeds from the gala will help fund Time for Change Foundation’s work in providing housing, supportive services, and opportunities for economic development. By strengthening the foundation of housing and economic empowerment, TFCF ensures that individuals and families overcoming homelessness and crisis can reach their fullest potential and achieve long-term success.

Together, we are building a brighter future. Get involved and be part of the change at www.timeforchangefoundation.org.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy is proud to announce that California State Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson will serve as the keynote speaker at the 2025 Mayor’s Masquerade Ball, to be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Cal State San Bernardino.

This year’s event will honor three outstanding mayors for their visionary leadership and dedication to uplifting their communities:

• Mayor Gabriel Reyes of Adelanto
• Mayor L. Dennis Michael of Rancho Cucamonga
• Mayor Tim Sandoval of Pomona

Serving as the evening’s emcee is Donald English, Ed.D., esteemed President of the Chaffey Joint Union High School District.

The Mayor’s Masquerade Ball is more than an evening of elegance and celebration—it’s a call to action. Since its founding in 2001, Young Visionaries has empowered over 200,000 youth throughout the Inland Empire. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit life-changing programs that nurture leadership, education, and resilience among the next generation.

Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson, a champion of equity, youth empowerment, and transformative change, brings a message of inspiration and purpose to this memorable evening. His commitment to public service and grassroots leadership perfectly aligns with the values and mission of Young Visionaries.

Guests are encouraged to wear their finest masquerade attire for this magical night of celebration, networking, and community building.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available.
To reserve your seat or to learn more, scan the QR code on the flyer or visit www.yvyla-ie.org.

You may also contact us directly at Gala@yvyla-ie.org or call 909-513-4286.

Let’s come together to celebrate leadership, elevate our youth, and turn dreams into

By Angela M. Coggs

In a deeply moving and powerful tribute, the first annual memorial event hosted by Families and Friends of Murdered Victims, Inc. was held at Smiley Park on Wednesday evening. From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., families, friends, and community members gathered to honor and remember those whose lives were tragically taken by violence.

The emotional evening was made possible through a meaningful collaboration between Families and Friends of Murdered Victims, Inc., the City of Redlands, the Redlands Police Department, the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, and the Bureau of Victim Services. Together, they created a safe space of remembrance, healing, and community support.

Attendees were encouraged to bring cherished items representing their loved ones—photos, pairs of shoes, and personalized t-shirts. The shoes and pictures were displayed in a solemn memorial installation, serving as a poignant visual reminder of the many lives lost to senseless violence. A special feature of the event was “The Clothesline,” where t-shirts bearing the faces and names of victims were hung and celebrated, fluttering gently in the evening breeze as symbols of remembrance and enduring love.

The event was the heartfelt vision of Rose Madsen, mother of Jennifer LeAnne Balber, a 20-year-old woman who was shot and killed while on duty as a Southern California Gas Company Meter Reader in Rialto, California, on November 10, 1994. Jennifer was not the intended target of the drive-by shooting, but her life was tragically taken in an act of violence that shook her family, friends, workplace, and community to its core.

Madsen has transformed her pain into purpose. Through Families and Friends of Murdered Victims, Inc., she now works to ensure that no family has to suffer alone. The organization aims to support those affected by violent crime and advocate for awareness, healing, and remembrance.

“This isn’t just about mourning our loved ones—it’s about keeping their memories alive, standing together, and finding strength in community,” Madsen shared during the event.

As candles were lit and names were read aloud, tears were shed and hands held tightly. The power of the evening came not only from grief, but from unity and a shared determination to honor every victim with dignity, love, and hope.

FFMV partnered with the City of Redlands. Redlands Police Department and the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office & the Bureau of Victim Services. District Attorney Jason Anderson welcomes and spoke to the attendees at this momentous gathering. His words were heartfelt, sincere, thoughtful, resonating deeply with those in attendance.

Families and Friends of Murdered Victims, Inc. plans to make this memorial an annual tradition. Another source of ongoing support, FFMV releases a monthly newsletter to keep supporters and families informed and connected.

For more information, to ask questions, or to sign up for the monthly newsletter, please contact Rose Madsen at mail4ffmv@yahoo.com.

In memory of Jennifer LeAnne Balber and all victims of violence — gone, but never forgotten.

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Some members of the California Black Legislative Caucus (CLBC) joined Assemblymember Susan Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) and the Women’s Legislative Caucus at a press conference on April 3 to demand justice and fairness for incarcerated woman in California.

CLBC members Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda), Sade Elhawary (D-Los Angeles), Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Ladera Heights), and prison reform advocates outlined their plans for justice reforms related to the health and wellbeing of incarcerated women.

“Our justice system has long overlooked the unique needs of incarcerated women, and it’s time for a change,” Quirk-Silva said. “When we incarcerated women without addressing underlying causes, we are not just punishing them, we are punishing their children and destabilizing their families.”

Assemblymembers Liz Ortega (D-San Leandro) and Sen. Caroline Menjivar (D-Burbank) also participated in the event held at the State Capitol. During the conference, the lawmakers announced legislation they have introduced to back their demands.

Elhawary is the author of Assembly Bill (AB) 1231, which would give judges the discretion to connect individuals on trial to treatment and services instead of spending prison time.

“But policy alone isn’t enough,” Elhawary said. “I’m fighting in this year’s budget to expand investment in reentry housing education and rehabilitation program because a sentence shouldn’t have to be a life sentence to poverty and instability.”

California operates 32 prisons and one leased prison, including 29 men’s prisons, two women’s prisons, and one prison that houses both men and women in separate facilities, according to the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO). 

Quirk-Silva, Bonta, Smallwood-Cuevas, and advocates speaking at the conference all agreed that to effectively reform California women’s prisons, the state must institute gender-responsive, trauma-informed, and strength-based approaches.

Advocates insist that the initiatives should address the specific needs and experiences of incarcerated women, including considering alternatives to incarceration, and ensuring access to education, vocational training, and mental health services.

Menjivar introduced Senate Bill (SB) 337 that expands the rights of incarcerated people, including requiring a third-party advocate for searches, a documentation of searches, and extending the window for women inmates to report sexual assaults.

Smallwood-Cuevas’ SB 75 would require the California Workforce Development Board to establish a Reentry Pilot Project in the counties of Alameda, Los Angeles, and San Diego to provide workforce training and transitional support to formerly incarcerated individuals committed to careers in the skilled trades.

Ortega, the author of AB 800, said it would deal with price gouging in prisons. Families that visit their loved ones pay an enormous amount of money to purchase food out of vending machines, she said.

“I’m learning about facilities that are charging up to $15 for a tiny frozen hamburger. That’s not okay,” Ortega said.

According to the California Public Policy Institute (PPIC), women make up about 50 % of the state’s population but 4% of the prison population. Black men and women account for 28% and 23%, respectively of prisoners.

On April 2, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) released an 81-page recidivism report showing that the recidivism rate for people released in the fiscal year 2019-20 declined by 2.8 % points over the previous year to 39.1%. The data reveals rehabilitative programming may be instrumental in reducing recidivism, the CDCR reported.

“With the limited resources that we’ve applied to rehabilitation reentry efforts, we’ve seen a decrease in recidivism markedly over the course of three years in the study just published,” Bonta said. “Imagine what we do if we applied more resources to the basic concept of suppling women rehabilitation rehab reentry.”

According to (CDCR), in 2022, there were 3,699 people incarcerated in women’s prisons in California, about 175 of whom have a sentence of life without the possibility of parole. Close to 929 people in women’s prisons are Black — 25% of the state’s overall prison population in 2022.

California is one of the few states in the country where the number of people incarcerated in women’s prisons is significantly decreasing — from 12,668 people in 2010 to 3,699 people in 2022, a 70.8% reduction, according to Ending the Harm of Women in Prisons (EHWP). About 54.3% of the women’s prisons in California have at least one child.

Quirk-Silva is the author of AB 923. The bill would authorize a pregnant or postpartum defendant to request a stay of execution of their sentence by filing a written request to the court if the individual is detained or incarcerated in a county jail for any length of time through the end of the pregnancy.

“Individuals housed in county jails used to be there a short time. Now they can be there one, two, three, four, five years,” Quirk-Silva said. “Do women need to go to jail while they are pregnant?”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Applications for the San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury are now being accepted. Successful applicants will serve as Grand Jury for the 2026 calendar year beginning on January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2026.

The Civil Grand Jury is charged by the California Penal Code to investigate all aspects of the county, including cities and special districts, and potentially hear information on certain criminal investigations. All communications to the Grand Jury are confidential and every signed citizen complaint is responded to after investigation. Service as a Grand Juror involves an average of three to five full working days per week, which is compensated at $60 per day with appropriate mileage. The regular Grand Jury meeting place is located in the City of San Bernardino.

To be eligible for selection, a person must be at least 18 years of age, a United States citizen, and a resident of the County of San Bernardino for at least one year prior to appointment. Other requirements include: sufficient knowledge of the English language, possession of natural faculties, of ordinary intelligence, sound judgment, and good character. By law, elected public officials are not eligible to be a Grand Juror.

Interested citizens are encouraged to apply online here. The application deadline is July 31, 2025.

Please refer to the recruitment timeline for important dates and information. For further questions or comments, please visit the Grand Jury’s website at http://wp.sbcounty.gov/grandjury/ or contact the Grand Jury Coordinator at (909) 382-3971.

The “Hands Off” protests marked the biggest day of demonstrations yet against the policies of Pres. Donald Trump and his biggest campaign donor and the world’s richest man, Elon Musk.

By Viji Sundaram

BERKELEY, CA— Thousands turned out Saturday in front of the North Berkeley Bart station in protest over what they decry as the Trump administration’s “hostile takeover” of their rights and freedoms.

“Our country and the world are at stake,” said Julia Bavar from her wheelchair with a sign leaning against it that said, “Death By a Thousand Cuts.”

Bavar was among the estimated 2,200 men, women, and children on hand for the April 5 protest, part of a series of similar protests across the country. “If we don’t speak up now, there may not be a later,” she said.

“I, as a disabled person, may not survive this administration because of their drastic cuts and their disregard for most human life,” said her friend, Peni Hall, 76, who was also in a wheelchair beside Bavar.

The “Hands Off” protests marked the biggest day of demonstrations yet against the policies of Pres. Donald Trump and his biggest campaign donor and the world’s richest man, Elon Musk.

Signs denounced Trump’s actions threatening health care, Social Security and education, and accused the president of making it harder for the average American to live, while benefiting his richest friends.

The demonstrations were organized in more than 1,200 locations in all 50 states by more than 150 groups, including civil rights organizations such as the Invisibles, LGBTQ+ advocates, labor unions and election activists. The Berkeley protests stretched for blocks along Sacramento Street.

Through chants and raised fists, protestors expressed anger over Trump’s steps to eliminate Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs in the workplace and other institutions, steps experts warn will threaten a range of sectors, healthcare among them. Advocates of DEI programs say they have provided a framework for the fostering of a more just and equitable society.

Protestors also denounced Trump’s mass deportation of immigrants, including those in the country as legal permanent residents, and of students stripped of their visas and detained by ICE because of their First Amendment activities.

Some voiced anger over the Trump administration’s scaled back protections to transgender people. In his first days in office, Trump ordered the removal of any mention of transgender people on government websites and passports.

Musk, a Trump adviser who runs Tesla, Space X and the social media platform X, has played a significant role in the downsizing as the head of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

With Trump cheering him on, the chainsaw wielding tech entrepreneur has made recommendations to those in charge of federal agencies as to who should be laid off and who should remain. Thousands of federal employees have been shown the door in the last several weeks.

Trump insists he is saving taxpayers billions of dollars, though reporting by the New York Times has found numerous accounting errors in DOGE’s public ledger.

“All of my outrage can’t fit on this sign,” said one protestor and a Hands-Off organizer, pointing to her emoji-filled sign of angry faces. “They are tearing down the pillars of our democracy.”

Some of the signs were funny. One said, “I’ve seen smarter cabinets at Ikea.” Another said, “Fight Tooth Decay.”

A number of Pro-Palestinian supporters who began their protest rally from the El Cerrito Plaza Bart station parking lot joined the Berkeley protestors. Some of them carried the Palestinian flag. Some wore the black-and-white Palestinian checkered scarf. “Today, we are in solidarity with the various struggles,” said El Cerrito resident Leslie Adams. She said she opposed the idea of her tax dollars being used to fund the war on the Palestinian people.

By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

Last week, President Donald Trump appointed Assemblymember Bilal Ali (Bill) Essayli (R-Corona) United States Attorney for the Central District of California.

The lawmaker, an outspoken critic of Gov. Newsom, accepted the appointment.

Essayli, who in February introduced Assembly Bill (AB) 1315, a reparations bill in the State Legislature, took the oath of office for his new job on April 2.

“I am honored that President Trump and Attorney General Bondi have placed their trust in me to serve as United States Attorney for the Central District of California,” Essayli said in a statement.Now, reparations advocates, who had been working along with Essayli, say they are looking for a sponsor for the bill in the Legislature.

Kamilah Moore, a Los Angeles-based attorney, who served as chair of the state’s reparations task force, says the effort has not stalled.

“This is a full job position for him. The U.S. Central District of California is the largest federal judiciary district in the country,” said Moore. “But I do appreciate his efforts and being helpful along the way, getting us certain names and contacts of legislators (who could carry the bill). I also appreciate that he kept the conversations (of reparations) going. He definitely played his part, and I cannot be mad at him at all.”

Essayli, who is Lebanese American and proponent of stricter immigration laws and enforcement, says he won major victories during his two-year-plus tenure as a lawmaker.

“When I joined the Assembly, parental rights, illegal immigration, and voter IDs were peripheral issues. We’ve made them centerpieces of our Party. This past election, we added true fighters, and I am confident they will continue the important work needed in the Legislature to make Republicans start winning in California,” Essayli said.

In February, Essayli introduced AB 1315, also known as the California American Freedmen Affair’s Agency (CAFAA) bill. If approved, this legislation would create a state agency responsible for verifying the identities of descendants of slavery using genealogy.

The agency would also contain the Office of Freedmen Legal Affairs and a registry of American Freedmen residents to support future direct services and resources, as recommended by the task force when the nine-member body completed its two-year study in June 2023.

Essayli, a former Riverside County prosecutor and the first Muslim American elected to the California Legislature, said he introduced the bill with the full support of members of the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC), the state’s leading reparations advocacy group.Essayli says he supports the creation of the agency even though he does not advocate for cash payments, stating on X last year, “I’m very much opposed to CA taxpayers paying reparations.”

Essayli has also said that he does not believe that California was involved in slavery, but he is totally behind programs that would acknowledge and address atrocities that descendants of Slavery suffered in the United States.

“For too long, the Democrat Party has lied to Black voters and delivered nothing decade after decade,” Essayli told CBM on Feb. 22.

Months later, reparations advocates declared they would work with any lawmakers who would adhere to their cause and made it clear that the “movement to recognize and support American Freedmen residents is a non-partisan effort” that ranks “policy over political affiliation,” CJEC shared in a February statement.

CJEC is a statewide organization made up of various associations, community groups, and individuals united by a commitment to fight for reparations.

Moore says she is working with CJEC, seeking clarity on the status of the bill and identifying another lawmaker –Republican or Democrat – to sponsor the legislation.

AB 1315 was first read in the Assembly chamber on Feb. 24.

Civil rights attorney and reparations advocate Chryce Cryer told Dominique di Prima on her KBLA Talk 1580 radio show that Essayli’s departure could be a blessing in disguise.

Cryer said Essayli’s position in the federal government “bodes well for the reparations movement.”

“It’s probably what he was aspiring to become,” Cryer said of Essayli on the Los Angeles-based radio show. “I would say for reparations in general, especially in California, it shines the spotlight on what we’re trying to do. Reparations is a non-partisan issue.”

Cryer continued, “The bureau, the agency, that’s also non-partisan. But now, as it stands, we have a friend and not a foe in the Trump Administration.”

Relief fund offering critical financial assistance to help ease the burden and restore hope for affected students and families—donate today

WASHINGTON, DC—In the wake of the devastation caused by the Los Angeles wildfires, UNCF and the UNCF Los Angeles office are stepping in to provide a lifeline for HBCU students and children of alumni, ensuring that education remains a beacon of hope amidst the crisis. With critical financial support from partners and donors, UNCF is making it possible for affected students to continue their education and families to stay on track with their rebuilding process.

To help alleviate hardships confronting impacted students and families, UNCF has launched the UNCF Los Angeles Area Wildfire Relief Fund through three specific programs, offering critical financial assistance to eligible students and alumni. To date, more than 300 students have already applied for assistance, demonstrating the urgent need for support during this crisis.

The relief fund is available to undergraduate and graduate students attending HBCUs; the children of HBCU alumni who have suffered losses due to the wildfires; students attending any accredited, four-year college or university whose families have been directly impacted by the wildfires.

Also, there is an opportunity for donors to support the relief fund. Donations—no matter the size—will play a vital role in ensuring these students can recover and continue their education. With the generosity of donors, together we can provide the stability and support these students need to rebuild their future.

UNCF is committed to ensuring that HBCU students and alumni affected by natural disasters receive the financial support necessary to stay on track with their education and move on with their lives. By providing emergency aid, UNCF aims to ease the burden on students and families, helping them to recover and focus on academic success.

“UNCF’s Los Angeles Area Wildfire Relief Fund is more than just financial assistance; it’s a lifeline for students and families striving to reclaim their dreams after the devastation of the LA wildfires,” said Dr. Veda Ramsay Stamps, regional development director, Los Angeles, UNCF. “In the face of adversity, the spirit of community shines brightest. Our fund will help us to restore hope and opportunity for those students and families affected by the wildfires.”

What Does the Fund Cover? 

Eligible recipients may receive financial assistance for tuition and fees, housing, books, meals and other essential education-related costs.

When to Apply 

Applications are now open! Submissions will be accepted on a rolling basis through the

2025 admissions cycle.

Eligibility Criteria 

Program #1: HBCU Undergraduate and Graduate Student Aid 

• Student or custodial/contributing parent(s)/guardian(s) living in a wildfire-impacted area and who has suffered a wildfire-related loss.

• No financial need required, but FAFSA completion (2024-25 or 2025-26) is necessary.

• Must be currently enrolled in good academic standing or admitted for fall 2025 enrollment at an accredited UNCF-member institution or other four-year, accredited HBCU.

Program #2: HBCU Alumni Emergency Aid 

• The child of a graduate or a graduate of a UNCF-member institution or other accredited four-year HBCU.

• Has suffered wildfire-related losses.

• Currently enrolled in good academic standing or admitted for fall 2025 enrollment in a graduate or professional degree program at any accredited college or university.

• Resides in the impacted area and is a custodial/contributing parent/guardian to a current college student in good academic standing or a student admitted for fall 2025 enrollment at any HBCU or four-year accredited college or university.

• FAFSA completion required (2024-25 or 2025-26).

• Priority is given to students attending UNCF-member institution or other four-year HBCUs.

Program #3: General Undergraduate and Graduate Student Aid 

• Student or custodial/contributing parent(s)/guardian(s) living in a wildfire-impacted area and who has suffered a loss.

• No financial need required, but FAFSA completion (2024-25 or 2025-26) is necessary.

• Must be currently enrolled in good academic standing or admitted for fall 2025 enrollment at any accredited four-year college or university.

Additional Information 

• Students with no financial need are still eligible as long as they complete the FAFSA (2024-25 or 2025-26).

• No cap on the amount of financial assistance requested.

• UNCF will provide resources to help students navigate institutional emergency aid programs.

• Any unexpended funds will go to UNCF’s general disaster relief fund.

For more information on eligibility, the application process, and how to apply, click here.

To donate to UNCF’s Los Angeles Area Wildfire Relief Fund, click here.

By Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose

My grandparents, despite many barriers, worked, saved, and eventually bought a house. My grandfather was forced to drop out of school in the fifth grade to work and help care for his younger siblings. But their determination to own a home, a dream shared by many in their generation, was unwavering. Families worked, prayed, and, like my grandparents, many others managed to turn their dreams into reality and own a home.

Today, too many Black families and individuals have the means to purchase homes but are discouraged by the limited inventory and high interest rates. I understand their frustration: they defeat the odds and get approved for a loan, only to discover that there are few homes on the market and none that meet their specific needs. For too many Black consumers, that has been a signal to back off, and they get stuck at that point.

At the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), we refuse to stand idly by as our community faces challenges in homebuying. My grandparents, despite having only limited formal schooling, owned a home. This is the kind of inspiration NAREB aims to instill today, especially among Black millennials. We’re here for the 1.75 million of them who earn over $100,000 a year but haven’t yet bought a home.

Our community needs to understand the significance of homeownership in wealth building. It’s much more than just a place to live. It’s also the best way to save for retirement, the most effective savings plan you can set up, and the most efficient way to pay for your children’s college education. If you want to start a business, the equity in your home is a quick way to become an entrepreneur. These are the many financial benefits that homeownership can bring, and it’s crucial for our community to be aware of them.

Yes, buying a home is more complicated than it was four years ago. However, it remains just as vital as it was 60 years ago. That’s why NAREB isn’t a passive observer. We are on an active mission to increase homeownership in Black communities. We are here to support the Black community, and we believe that with the right resources and knowledge, homeownership is within reach for families and individuals in our community.

On April 12, 2025, NAREB will present its second annual National Building Black Wealth Day in 100 cities nationwide. Seminars, workshops, and one-on-one sessions will empower communities with steps towards homeownership, property investment, starting a business, and other wealth-building opportunities. Among the workshops are:

• What to do with Big Momma’s House?
• ABCs of Homebuying
• Real Estate Investing
• Down Payment Assistance
• Explore Careers in Real Estate
• Free Career Fair
• Free Health Screenings
• One-On-Ones with Real Estate Attorneys
• One-on-Ones with Housing Counselors

To register for the local events around the country, visit www.narebblackwealthtour.com. There will also be virtual sessions. To register for the virtual sessions on Zoom, click HERE.

The Wealth Tour is designed to provide guidance on how to start the journey towards homeownership for those who need assistance. But we are also there for those with the financial means to buy a home but haven’t taken the leap. We are also reaching out to these Black consumers. Our partners in the Wealth Tour, including organizations like the Divine Nine sororities and fraternities, help us connect with this demographic. It’s our biggest challenge.

We teach people how to improve their credit scores, explain how to obtain renovation loans, and help them assess their housing needs. But changing the mindset? Convincing them of the importance of homeownership is the real challenge.

However, our partners step up and lend a hand. We collaborate with the National Baptist Convention and the Divine Nine fraternities and sororities. Many of their members are millennials, the target audience we aim to reach. Our partners are providing platforms for us to connect with demographics that have the means to be homeowners.

Often, millennials don’t realize the pain and struggle that their parents or grandparents endured in their quest for homeownership. They remain unaware of issues like redlining or government programs that discriminated against Black individuals, such as the GI Bill and the Federal Housing Administration. Additionally, with owner-financed notes, there was the pressure that a missing or late payment could jeopardize the sale, risk your investment, or lead to eviction.

These struggles are often overlooked by younger generations. We want them to understand the past and open their eyes to the future. High-homeownership communities are locations where they and their families can thrive. That’s the reality NAREB strives to create.

Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose is a developer in Houston and President of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers.