Will subcontract with Antioch Chamber of Commerce Foundation

By Juliet V. Casey Director of Marketing, Los Medanos College

PITTSBURG, Calif. – Contra Costa County selected Los Medanos College (LMC) to lead a $1 million initiative aimed at strengthening the nonprofit sector in East Contra Costa County. The East County Nonprofit Capacity Building Program, approved by the Contra Costa Community College District Board of Trustees this month, aims to develop future nonprofit leaders and to expand organizational effectiveness across the region.

The initiative will serve communities including Bay Point, Pittsburg, Antioch, Oakley, Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen and Bethel Island. LMC was chosen for its proven ability to deliver high-quality education and workforce development programs tailored to community needs. 

LMC President Pamela Ralson said the college is eager to move forward, having worked over the past year to create more learning opportunities to support nonprofits. The next step will be to establish the educational programming for the initiative, which runs through Oct. 31, 2028. 

Ralston recognized local leaders for their foresight in supporting the initiative. 

“County Supervisors, and Supervisors Diane Burgis and Shanelle Scales-Preston in particular, see the value of developing and training future leaders across the nonprofit landscape in our area,” she said. “LMC is proud to be a partner in that effort.”

Contra Costa County Supervisor Diane Burgis said she is grateful for all the community partners who collaborated on the initiative.

“My goal is for this to help train the current and next generation of nonprofit leaders in East County and help all small- and medium-sized nonprofits succeed,” she said.

The initiative features:

• Educational programming: Fee-based seminars and free workshops on nonprofit management, plus academic courses that stack toward certificates and degrees.
• Mini-grants: Funding for paid internships and capacity-building projects, with priority given to organizations serving low- to moderate-income and historically underserved communities.
• Leadership development: A cohort program for mid- to senior-level nonprofit staff, offering executive skills, mentorship, and peer networking.
• Nonprofit Resource Hub: A collaborative space for nonprofit entrepreneurship and shared learning.

“Building capacity among East Contra Costa County nonprofits is not simply a ‘good idea,’ it is necessary for ensuring sustainability and a steady flow of services to our most in-need constituents those nonprofits serve,” Contra Costa County Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston said. “We could not think of a more appropriate strategic partner than Los Medanos College to work collaboratively in this endeavor.” 

LMC will subcontract with the Antioch Chamber of Commerce Foundation to manage the project, including hiring a dedicated project manager and convening an advisory group of nonprofit leaders and curriculum experts. The chamber has long advocated for local businesses and nonprofit organizations, which unlike other businesses are not aiming to make a profit, rather they use money for the public good, said Jim Becker, incoming board chair for the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. 

“Nonprofits make up 20% of the local economy, and they run just like other businesses. They need HR, financial and legal compliance,” he said. “It’s really exciting to partner with LMC to provide greater and broader access to nonprofit business education.” 

About Los Medanos College (LMC): LMC is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs, support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond. LMC’s Pittsburg Campus is located on 120 acres bordering Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood. For more information visit www.losmedanos.edu.

In Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown

By Celebrate Antioch Foundation

Join us for the 11th Annual Hot Rods 4 Paws Benefit Car & Bike Show and Trunk or Treat Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown.

Enjoy and participate in the Pet Costume Contest at 11:30am, Kids Costume Contest at 12:00pm on the corner of W. 2nd and G Streets and store-to-store Trick or Treating from 12:00-4:00pm.

Plus, there will be Monster Truck rides, a Kids Zone, Music and Vendors and it is FREE to the public.

The event will benefit Furry Friends Pet Relief, a 501c3 non-profit organization that assists struggling families and the homeless in the East Bay and surrounding counties with dog and cat food.

For more information visit them at 708 W 2nd Street in Antioch or online at www.furryfriendspetrelief.com.

See more events at CelebrateAntioch.org.

For more information visit www.goldenhills.org or www.teamjesusoutreach.org.

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Antioch will hold their annual Fall Boutique on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm. This event is a fundraiser for community charities and the restoration of the Historic GFWC Woman’s Club of Antioch building and is open to the public.

Handmade Crafters Artists & Vendors will offer Jewelry, Bags, Accessories, Scarves, Baby Items, Bowl Cozies, Tissue Holders, AVON, Small Christmas Trees, Handmade Bracelets, Shabby Chic, Colorstreet Nails & Lip Care, Tea Towels, Pillows, Aprons, Diamond Paintings, Alterations, Small Clocks, Printed Vases, Wreaths, Ornaments, Blankets, Quilts, Table Runners, Crochet Items, Key Chains, Magnets, Succulents, & unique gifts for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and all seasons

LOCATION: GFWC Woman’s Club of Antioch at 509 “G” Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. Parking is available across the street in the school district parking lot. Please do not park in the church parking lot next door. 

For questions contact Chairpersons: Nancy Burkard (925) 759-3383 or Liese McCause (925) 752-6725.

Business Women giving back to the Community!

Founded in 1902, the Woman’s Club of Antioch was formed “To improve and beautify the town, to do any business which shall promote the educational industrial benevolent, social or political welfare of its members or the community at large.”

In 1904 the club was then admitted to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, known as the GFWC.  In 1905 with 40 members the club was incorporated, and our club was admitted to the California Federation of Women’s Clubs known as CFWC, then in 1924 admitted into the Mount Diablo District.  

For more information visit www.gfwcwomansclubofantioch.org.

Paid advertisement.

By City of Antioch Economic Development Department

The City of Antioch received funding from the National League of Cities (NLC) to pilot a grant program aimed at advancing local jobs through collaboration between Antioch businesses and nonprofits. The City invites teams of three or more Antioch-based small businesses and/or nonprofits to propose creative projects that will help residents, especially those with low incomes, find and grow in meaningful employment.

This is a pilot grant program. A total of $20,000 will be split between 2–4 selected teams ($5,000-$10,000 per team). All grant funds must be spent by June 1, 2026.

Applications are open until 10/10/25.

Read the program guidelines and application: https://www.antiochca.gov/rfps/

Register for the info session: https://us02web.zoom.us/…/register/rBnlNIImR5KcSbf3eBskSQ

Tacos for Books – Order online or in the restaurant

PLEASE SHARE THIS EVENT WITH FAMILY and FRIENDS!!!

Friends of the Antioch Library CHIPOTLE FUNDRAISER.

Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 4:00pm-8:00pm

5401 Lone Tree Way, Suite 100,  Brentwood in the Lone Tree Plaza.

25% of even sales help support programs at the Antioch Libraries!

Order online using CODE 942BC9D.

Ordering in the restaurant? Just mention The FRIENDS OF THE ANTIOCH LIBRARY when placing your order

TACOS FOR BOOKS!!! But you can also order their burritos, salads and bowls.

For more information about Friends of the Antioch Library visit ccclib.org/ant-friends or follow them on Facebook.

From city’s first church; fundraising goal almost met, still needs support

By Antioch Historical Society

The Antioch Historical Society hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, on the museum grounds on W. 4th Street, to build a tower to house the 157-year-old First Congregational Church bell and restore it. The bell is said to be one of the oldest known artifacts in Antioch. (See related articles here and here)

City officials and staff, Historical Society and project team members were joined by construction company representatives for the event.

Thank you to all who attended.

Project leader Dwayne Eubanks said, “the bell rang out in 1871 a year before the City was founded. The bell stood as a symbol of unity in a city of diversity.”

If you’d like to support this worthy project, please make an online donation at our website: https://antiochhistoricalmuseum.org/unity-bell-tower…/

 “There will be a patio with benches or a concrete block wall around it,” Eubanks shared. “Almost $83,000 has been raised out of the $94,000 goal.”

Checks can be sent to: Antioch Historical Museum, 1500 West 4th Street, Antioch, CA 94509. Names of sponsors will be permanently inscribed at the exhibit site. Contributions are tax deductible. If you have questions, contact Dwayne Eubanks at the Antioch Historical Society Museum at (925) 757-1326.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

By Velma Wilson

We are prepared to have some great resources and services provided for our 13th Annual Stuff The Bus school supply giveaway on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025. Join us at the Contra Costa Event Park (fairgrounds) on W. 10th Street in Antioch.

Please REGISTER

If you have/know of a great (preferably FREE) resource or have beneficial info that you would love to share with the community!!

If you are a self-contained food truck!!

Link: https://form.jotform.com/251927197459169

or scan the QR code below!

The QR code below will also give you access to information including a volunteer sign-up form as well as ways to donate to this event!! Please share

For families looking to register, registration is now open. You will see that information pop up via this link: https://linktr.ee/4evermefoundation

UPDATE: Claryssa Wilson, a dedicated Antioch High School alumna, community leader, and founder of the renowned annual event, is proud to announce the return of the 13th Annual Stuff the Bus School Supply Giveaway, an event that has become a cornerstone of community support and youth empowerment in East Contra Costa County. Since its inception when she was just in the 6th grade, Claryssa has been committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of socioeconomic background, has access to the essential tools needed for academic success.

This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will be held at the Contra Costa County Event Park (Fairgrounds), located at 1201 W. 10th Street in Antioch, CA. Over the past twelve years, this inspiring initiative has provided backpacks filled with school supplies to over 40,000 students across Antioch, Pittsburg, and neighboring communities. It has grown into a collaborative effort with numerous local organizations and sponsors, including the Golden State Warriors, the Antioch Schools Education Foundation, Adonal Foyle’s Kerosene Lamp Foundation, and many others who share a common vision of fostering educational opportunity and community resilience.

“No student should face a new school year without the basic supplies they need to succeed,” said Claryssa Wilson, founder and host of the event. “Our mission is rooted in the belief that every child, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and excel. By providing these supplies, we’re helping to level the playing field and inspire hope for a brighter future.”

This year’s event is expected to reach and serve thousands of students, many of whom are vulnerable and face significant barriers such as foster care, homelessness, or economic hardship. The event will feature an array of family-friendly activities, vendor booths, and entertainment designed to bring joy and support to families. Children and parents will have the opportunity to enjoy performances by Jordan Orosco, known as The Mathemagician, whose engaging magic and math demonstrations foster a love of learning. The event will also include a Stepz Dance Fitness segment, interactive games, resource tables, and much more to create a festive, supportive atmosphere.

One of the new highlights this year is a full-service Hair Salon, offering FREE haircuts, braiding styles, washes, blow-drys, and silk presses. This service aims to boost confidence and help families prepare for the upcoming school year. Services will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and registration is required.

In addition to the giveaways and entertainment, the event provides a platform for community organizations, local businesses, and educational resources to connect with families, share information, and foster ongoing support. The event’s overarching goal is to create a sense of unity, hope, and empowerment for families, especially those most in need.

All media outlets and press representatives are warmly invited to cover the event. To coordinate interviews with Claryssa Wilson or for additional information, please contact:

Phone: (925) 250-3051
Email: Blessedbydesgn09@gmail.com

The Stuff the Bus School Supply Giveaway is organized by the 4ever Me Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Claryssa Wilson in 2012. Over the past decade, the Foundation has dedicated itself to supporting foster children, unhoused youth, and children facing homelessness, providing vital supplies, mentorship, and community support. To date, the Foundation has served more than 40,000 students and continues to expand its outreach and impact.

All donations, sponsorships, and gifts to the 4ever Me Foundation and the Stuff the Bus School Supply Giveaway are tax-deductible and vital to maintaining and growing this impactful community effort. Contributions can be made through the Foundation’s website or by contacting the organization directly.

Join us this August in making a tangible difference—helping empower students to succeed academically and build a foundation for lifelong achievement. Your support ensures that no child is left behind because of a lack of basic school supplies. Together, we can create a stronger, more resilient community where every student has the tools to thrive.