Building Equity Through Connection: Reflections on the Black Family Equity Initiative

This summer, Compass Family Services piloted something bold and deeply needed: the Black Family Equity Initiative (BFEI). For six weeks, beginning June 9 and ending July 14, Black families gathered each Monday afternoon to share space, learn together, and strengthen the skills and confidence needed to navigate life’s challenges. Each session was intentionally designed to affirm the lived experiences of Black parents and caregivers, while offering tools they could take home and apply immediately.

The idea was simple yet powerful: to create a safe and supportive environment where Black families feel seen, heard, and empowered. The impact was profound.

A Journey Through Six Sessions

The series featured six sessions, each facilitated by trusted voices from both Compass and the wider community:

• Navigating Race & Identity as a Black Family with Elgin Rose Sr.

• Housing Stability & Legal Rights with Connie Swain

• Mental Health & Well-Being with Rachel Douglass, LMFT

• Parenting & Family Relationships with Dr. Khalid White

• Educational Advocacy: Helping Kids Succeed in School with LaShonda Penn

• Financial Literacy with Adam Tait, Compass Board

Families left each session with something tangible: a clearer understanding of their housing rights, new strategies for talking to children about race, simple routines to support wellness, or practical tools to manage a household budget. These weren’t abstract lessons; they were real solutions for real families.

Voices That Mattered

What made the BFEI most meaningful were the voices of the families themselves. In the final survey, 94% of participants reported that the program’s goals were clearly communicated, 81% found the content relevant, and nearly all participants (94%) stated that they would recommend a program like this to another Black family.

• One parent shared: “Excellent presenters and information. If I could give any advice, it would be to have more programs like this year-round. We need to keep this kind of information open to our community!"

• Another reflected: “Rhett was an amazing facilitator. He chose great speakers, was welcoming, engaging, and respectful. I wish this happened more frequently it would be a great class for new Black moms and dads.”

These voices are reminders that equity work is not just about numbers; it’s about creating spaces where people feel valued, respected, and supported.

Seeds for the Future

The series ended with 10 households receiving $150 gift cards as recognition for their commitment to attending five or more sessions. Even more important than incentives was the sense of community that took root. Families asked for more opportunities to gather, more conversations that centered their experiences, and more resources that met them where they are. Out of that request grew the Black Parents Monthly Drop-In Group, an evolution of the work started with BFEI. Meeting every 4th Wednesday from 1:00 – 2:00 PM at 37 Grove Street, the drop-in group is open to Black mothers, fathers, and caregivers of all family structures. It offers what families told us they wanted most: consistent community, meaningful dialogue, and resources that affirm and uplift.

The Black Family Equity Initiative was more than a pilot program. It was a reminder of what happens when we intentionally invest in equity. It was proof that when we center Black families, provide culturally responsive tools, and honor their lived experiences, we create pathways for entire communities to thrive.