$500,000 Gift Launches First 5 Humboldt’s “Belonging Project” at Historic Eureka Proper

Press release:

First 5 Humboldt has created a new nonprofit, the Humboldt Children and Families Foundation, to support their programs as the dedicated state funding for First 5’s continues to dramatically decline. The Foundation broadens fundraising opportunities and is part of a strategy to ensure the long-term sustainability of First 5 Humboldt’s work to promote the well-being of children and families.

The Vesper Society, a San Francisco based private foundation, has provided a generous donation of $500,000 to initiate the Foundation’s first endeavor: “The Belonging Project”. The launch of this project includes the purchase of a historic Eureka property that will welcome children and families in a supportive and inclusive space, while also serving as a permanent home for First 5 Humboldt. The Foundation is seeking additional funds to prepare the home and grounds for public use.

“As we enter our tenth year of partnership with First Five Humboldt, they are poised to create a positive environment where families can practice compassion and kindness, learn about the importance of belonging and connection, and in the process create a vibrant healthy community. First Five Humboldt was instrumental in raising awareness about Adverse Childhood Experiences and now we are thrilled to support the Belonging Project to further their work in preventing ACEs and promoting resilience.” said Miyoko Oshima, Vesper Society President.

The newly acquired property will provide a warm, family centered- environment for services including playgroups, parenting classes, professional trainings, and community gatherings, as well as a permanent home for First 5 Humboldt. The large yard has mature fruit trees with space for outside play, and a planned family-friendly sensory garden.

Designed to foster connection, learning, and belonging, the home reflects First 5 Humboldt’s commitment to supporting the whole family and strengthening early childhood systems throughout the county.

“With this new home, we are investing in the future of early childhood in Humboldt County,” said Brian Davis, President of the Humboldt Children and Families Foundation. “We envision a space where families feel welcomed, professionals feel supported, the community can come together in meaningful ways, and First 5 Humboldt has a permanent home.”

“We are so grateful to the Foundation, the Vesper Society, and the community for their support of our work”, said Mary Ann Hansen, First 5 Humboldt Executive Director. “First 5 Humboldt’s core values hold that families are experts on their needs, that they have the strength and insights to be successful, and that often what they most need is to be held and supported in ways that nurture their strengths and connections with each other. The Belonging Project will lay the groundwork for a better future rooted in kindness, connection, and belonging. We are creating a haven that will be here for generations, that purposefully builds a more healthy and caring future.

The Foundation and First 5 Humboldt are currently preparing the space for programming, with community events and open house dates to be announced later this year.