The atmosphere was electric as guests enjoyed captivating jazz performances, delectable food, and a vibrant sense of community. Special thanks to our generous sponsors and community leaders for their unwavering support of Building Futures. The overwhelming turnout and enthusiasm demonstrated that, now more than ever, we must come together and make a meaningful impact.

Liz Varela, Executive Director, presented an award to Alameda Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft for her leadership in ending homelessness, expanding housing, and supporting survivors of domestic violence, with words from Assemblymember Mia Bonta and Supervisor Lena Tam. It was a special moment of recognition.

Guests were treated to mesmerizing live jazz performances by master keyboardist Steve Carter, bass guitarist Dennis Smith, drummer Billy “Shoes” Johnson, and percussionist Marquinho Brasil, featuring vocalists Tranisha Gold and local legend Fred Ross. It was truly a night to remember!

This year’s event, much like previous ones, showcased the incredible power of community. We not only raised critical funds but also strengthened bonds within our network of supporters.

We did it! Thanks to our community’s generosity, we met our matching gift goal, raising over $20,000 in total! An anonymous donor matched dollar for dollar the first $10,000 raised, effectively doubling our impact. Our raffle was also a smashing success!

Funds raised are already being put to work, helping individuals and families build new lives after experiencing homelessness and domestic violence.

Community Impact

100% of the net proceeds from this fundraising event supports Building Futures’ homeless, domestic violence and housing services in Alameda County. Building Futures with Women and Children is a 501(c) (3) tax exempt organization, Federal tax ID 94-3100741, (aka Cornerstone Community Development Corporation) and your contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Building Futures’ mission is to build communities with underserved individuals and families, where they are safely and supportively housed, free from homelessness and domestic violence. Building Futures believes that everyone deserves a safe place to call home.

To learn more, check out our Annual Report.

On May 2, 2024, our annual benefit event raised $135,000 to help individuals and families building new lives after homelessness and domestic violence.

It was a night to remember! Guests enjoyed the unforgettable jazz stylings of Darlene Coleman and the Steve Carter Trio. Nido’s provided delectable appetizers, an organic taco bar, and delicious cocktails. Special thanks to the event’s enchanting emcee, Board Member, Nicole Hankton.

In Nido’s covered outdoor oasis, more than 200 guests mingled with friends old and new. Six members of Building Futures’ leadership team shared how we do our work with love. One highlight was the success story of Sofia. The single mother and her four small children moved into stable housing after receiving tailored services while living at San Leandro Shelter.

The raffle was a huge success, raising over $9,000 for Building Futures’ shelter, street outreach, domestic violence, and housing programs!

Jazz it Up also included an opportunity to help Building Futures achieve a matching gift from a generous anonymous donor, who agreed to match all donations up to a total of $10,000. WE DID IT! Together, we raised $10,000, which means $20,000 to boost life changing services.

Thank you! The SOLD-OUT evening at Nido’s Backyard featured delectable food and drinks and live music. The event raised $135,000 and 250 community members gathered to celebrate Building Futures service to the community, and support life-changing programs and services.

Our community supporters met a $10,000 challenge match, enjoyed a celebratory evening of great jazz and food, and gathered in person for the first time in three years!

Treva Reid, Oakland City Councilmember District 7, spoke on the importance of housing.

Thank you to all who supported 2023 Jazz It Up!