ST EOBHCSunset 072321 - Flipbook - Page 27
2016-2018
EOBHC hires its own staff
In the fall of 2016, EOBHC was poised for three critical transitions: (1) the hiring of new EOBHC staff;
(2) the formation of three new Action Teams to replace the previous “Work Groups,” and (3) the
search for an EOBHC Hub Host anchored in East Oakland.
While there’s much to celebrate, at the heart of it all lies the years-old questions that have plagued
EOBHC since its inception: What exactly is EOBHC’s identity and function, in relation to existing
base-building, organizing, direct service providers, and residents and youth in East Oakland?
and, What is meaningful capacity building and how does EOBHC add value, rather than syphon
resources from the work already taking place in East Oakland? And if in fact, form follows
function, then: What are the core skills needed on staff for EOBHC to be effective in its work? and,
What ought to be the governance function of the LC?
In spite of not having answers to these critical questions, EOBHC forged ahead with acquiring new
staff. While that decision brought much-needed relief to overextended LC members, with the
benefit of hindsight, it’s easier to see how this was a mistake.
FOR THE LOVE OF BLACK EAST OAKLAND: EOBHC Sunset Report
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