Advocacy + Engagement

OPEN DOORS. OPEN EYES.

Here for change.

We are a community-powered organization driven by the wisdom, imagination, and passion of youth. Our Youth Advisory Council has a finger on the pulse of the community, organizing to promote the health and safety of our peers. We actively work towards advancing policies that protect youth and communities from the harms of substance use and organize to address systemic injustice.

Youth Advisory Council

We believe that youth are key to building a healthy and vibrant community. Our Youth Advisory Council, a group of middle school, high school, and alumni leaders, ages 12 to 21, works to design programs and advocate for policies focused on substance use awareness and prevention. They pushed and won the policy to ban flavored tobacco and introduced evidence-based prevention programs in schools, directly impacting our community. It's when we listen and work alongside young people that we create real and lasting change for their generation and beyond.

YAC meets virtually every Wednesday from 3:30pm to 5pm and in person every last Wednesday of the month.

Our Impact

Building momentum for continued growth and change.

  • Our communities that have been disproportionately targeted by the tobacco industry lead the fight to end the tobacco epidemic through policy, systems, and environmental change strategies. We achieved bans of flavored tobacco products in South Hayward and other East Bay communities. To build on this momentum, we are working to implement and enforce comprehensive tobacco retail license policies, Smoke-Free Multi-Unit Housing, and legislation that would phase out the sale of tobacco.

  • Our Spanish-speaking Promotoras are essential in bridging information and access gaps. Their work connects thousands of residents to essential mental health, medical, and vaccination services, which was especially vital during the pandemic and now in recovery. Together, we’re building a healthier and more equitable community for all.

  • Hear Us Shout is a powerful documentary produced by Eden Clubhouse youth that explores the complex issue of gentrification and its devastating impact on their communities. The short film is a starting point to educate and connect community members around actions to address gentrification, the lack of affordable housing, and other social and environmental issues.

  • We are proud to be an integral part of the Alameda County Behavioral Health’s Latinx Advocacy Committee, formerly known as the Latinx Steering Committee. Our committee consists of a diverse group of organizations dedicated to advocating for the well-being of Latinos in Alameda County. In just a few months, we are actively been involved in shaping the committee's identity and purpose. In addition, we successfully organized and hosted a behavioral health event aimed at raising awareness and providing support to the Latinx community. Furthermore, we conducted comprehensive surveys to gather valuable insights and data that inform the committee's initiatives and advocacy efforts. Through our dedication and collaborative approach, we continue to make a meaningful impact in improving the lives of Latinos in Alameda County.

  • In 2021, the Hayward People's Budget allocated $350,000 to fund community-generated, community-led projects. Through community voting, residents selected their top twelve project proposals for implementation in their neighborhoods. We had the honor to serve as fiscal sponsors for two of the twelve projects.

    One: On Saturday, August 5th, 2023 we hosted Cumbia in Hayward: A Day of Bonzanza. It was a day filled with music, drinks, snacks, raffles, and dance at our location. Additionally, we hosted a backpack giveaway during the event in collaboration with “Believe Holy Spirit” and other organizations.

    Two: The Hayward Night Market took place on September 30th, 2023. This vibrant evening event featured a variety of food vendors, live entertainment, a pumpkin patch, local vendors, and activities for the whole family. It was hosted at 27200 Calaroga Ave., near St. Rose Hospital.

“I love that youth design our programs and are making a lasting impact in the community.”

Patrick Leonard, Grants Manager

More doors open to you.

Wellness + Prevention

Recognizing that healing takes time and requires trusting relationships, we provide the safe space for young people to be vulnerable, share their feelings and find true support from peers and caring adults.

Education + Skill-building

Young people need safe spaces to discover who they are and what interests them as they evolve. Through our computer clubhouse, we provide the tools for self-exploration and expression through art and technology.

Community Events + Resources

Let’s show up for South Hayward & it’s neighbors.