Welcome to the New OCCORD Newsletter! We are so excited!

Friend,

 

Welcome to the revamped OCCORD newsletter! We're excited to kick off this new format and engage with you more effectively. Your input is invaluable, so before we dive in, we'd like to know: Would you prefer to receive our updates bi-weekly to stay up-to-date with the latest actions and news, or would a monthly format suit you better? Let us know your preference!

Exciting news! We've revamped our website to provide you with a more user-friendly experience. Check out our new site at www.occord.org to explore the latest updates, resources, and ways to engage with OCCORD. We value your feedback and look forward to hearing from you about your preferred newsletter format and any suggestions you have for content. Together, let's continue our mission of empowering communities!

In solidarity,

OCCORD

APRIL 2024

 

Housing Is A Human Right ✊🏽🏠

We were immensely proud to organize and mobilize our neighborhood leaders to advocate for 'Housing is a Human Right' in Sacramento. Through collaborative efforts, we empowered our community representatives to voice the urgent need for affordable housing legislation directly to policymakers. Their dedication and passion underscore our commitment to ensuring that every individual has access to safe and affordable housing. Together, we continue to champion this fundamental human right for all.

 

Paola:

"Participating in this trip made me realize the power of my voice. It's like a power I didn't know I had awakened, and now I know it must be heard. This experience gave me wisdom on guiding others in similar events. Thank you for pushing me to do new things."

 

Maria:

"Knocking on legislators' doors and advocating for housing issues made me feel adrenaline and empowered. Expressing my opinions was the highlight of the day."

 

Candelaria:

"Being heard by legislators at the state capitol was everything. Despite some challenges, we raised our concerns on the housing crisis and hope for positive change in California.

Digital Empowerment: Recap of April's Exciting Workshops! 💻

In April, we embarked on a journey of digital empowerment with not one, but two engaging workshops! First, on April 15th, 'Unlocking Creativity with Canva' ignited imaginations as attendees honed in on their visual storytelling skills, learning about Canva's design fundamentals and how to craft stunning materials. Additionally, on April 29th, the 'Mastering Virtual Connections: Navigating through Zoom' workshop provided participants with invaluable skills for navigating the digital world, focusing on essential Zoom capabilities for personal and professional use.

 

📈 Zoom Workshop Stats: 90% of attendees reported that the workshop exceeded their expectations. 100% expressed a high likelihood of using Zoom for future meetings. 💻 It’s clear that our efforts are making a real impact in our community! But let’s not forget the fantastic response from our previous Canva workshop:

 

🎨 Canva Workshop Feedback: 100% of participants found the materials and presentation clear and easy to understand. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn and requested more classes! 💡 It’s all about equipping our community with essential digital skills for success in today’s world. Huge thanks to all who participated and shared their valuable feedback – stay tuned for more empowering sessions ahead!

 

A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us and shared their invaluable feedback. Stay tuned for more empowering sessions as we continue our mission of digital literacy and empowerment!

Anaheim Update: DisneylandForward Approved Amidst Controversy

As of May 7th, Anaheim's City Council unanimously voted to proceed with DisneylandForward, a comprehensive development plan for expanded theme parks, hotels, and entertainment venues around Disney. This plan will reshape our city for (40) years to come, but it's crucial to recognize its potential impacts.

 

While DisneylandForward promises growth, it also raises concerns about housing displacement and benefits primarily for the middle class. Despite concerns raised by residents, the decision stands. We'll keep you informed of any developments.

 

To join our efforts in organizing and voicing community concerns, contact our Community Organizing Manager, Asha, at [email protected]. Follow us on social media @Occord_ for updates.

 

🎉 Celebrating our Newest Citizens 🇺🇸

Congratulations to: Albertina Barragán, Ana Isabel Cortez Quiroa, Cirilo Jiménez, Francisco Contreras Revolorio, Graciela Abeyta, Jorge Aranda, Jose Sanchez, Leticia Torres, Leyda Paola Pardo Zamora, Lucrecia Suarez, Luz María Ramos Valladares, Marina Orozco Romero, Miriam Torres, and Raquel Rangel Rodríguez! 🎉🇺🇸

Citizenship Clinic on May 18th

Prepare for an empowering experience at our upcoming Citizenship Clinic on May 18th. This event promises to be a beacon of support for individuals embarking on their citizenship journey.

We are proud to have reached capacity for this event and can't wait to create new active citizens! 🇺🇸😁 We are no longer taking appointments for that clinic but call our Citizenship team for 1-1 in office at a later time or to register for the next fair.

Walk-ins will not be accepted.

Date: May 18th, 2024

Location: OakView Elementary School ( 17241 Oak Lane, Huntington Beach, CA 92647)

Appointment Times: 9AM, 11AM or 1PM

For inquiries or to participate as a volunteer/resource provider, please reach out.

Citizenship Team at (714) 621-0919 ext: 6.

Upcoming: Citizenship Mega Fair on September 21st

 

Mark your calendars for our upcoming Citizenship Mega Fair on September 21st, 2024, hosted at the Ponderosa Family Resource Center. Please register to help the process become smooth and timely for you. (Registration coming soon) Explore a wide range of services, including legal assistance, information, and clarification through your Citizenship process. Whether you're just beginning the process or seeking final guidance, our fair is here to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed.

 

Date: September 21st, 2024

Location: Ponderosa Family Resource Center

Appointment Times: 9AM, 11AM, or 1PM

 

For inquiries or to participate as a volunteer/resource provider, please reach out.

Citizenship Team at (714) 621-0919 ext: 6.

 

Celebrating New Funding Partner

The California Wellness Foundation has become OCCORD's newest Power Building partner! We are excited to embark on this new partnership to build community power across Orange County communities.

 

OCCORD has been selected to join the Practice the Future Cohort sponsored by the Movement Innovation Collaborative (previously called the i-Center) and the Healing Justice & Sustainable Work Culture (HJ/SWC) subcommittee. Our partnership aims to develop strategies to support staff sustainability and learn about our role in community healing.