Oakland Unites: FIGB and Grown & Sexy Divas Motorcycle Club Host 4th Annual Backpack Giveaway

By: Richard “Razor” Johnson

This past Saturday, September 7, 2024, the West Oakland community, particularly in the Campbell Village area at 8th and Campbell, came together for a heartwarming and festive event. The 4th annual backpack giveaway, hosted by Formerly Incarcerated Giving Back (FIGB) in collaboration with annual community giveaway by the Grown & Sexy Divas Motorcycle Club, truly captured the spirit of Oakland — uniting the community and supporting future generations.

Children and families were able to do more than just pick up backpacks filled with school supplies; they stayed to play, eat, and engage with community leaders. The event featured bungee jumping, games for the children, delicious food for all, and clothing donations for those in need. The collaboration between FIGB and the Grown & Sexy Divas demonstrated the strength and unity of Oaklanders coming together for the greater good.

Nicole Goodwin and Dana Terry of the Grown & Sexy Divas Motorcycle Club, along with FIGB, organized the event with the mission of empowering and uplifting the community. Their commitment was evident in the joy and sense of togetherness felt by all who attended.

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Sam DJ McNeal, one of the many who stopped by to show support, added energy to the event while participating in a nearby dance video shoot. In addition to the backpack giveaway, the event offered free clothing, toiletries, toys, and meals, accompanied by uplifting music that set the perfect tone.

Most notably, ex-Oakland Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong took the time out of his busy schedule to attend the event and assist in the backpack giveaway. His presence was a powerful reminder of his commitment to bringing the community back to its prominence. Armstrong’s actions reflect a genuine desire to improve Oakland, not just through words, but through direct involvement. His participation helped make the event a shining example of what collective action and leadership can achieve.

The success of the event was made possible by the generous support of community leaders and organizations. Among the key supporters were Kathy Adam, CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce; Jonathan Paul Jones from the African American Sports & Entertainment Group (AASEG); Oakland Post News Group; Rick Fortenberry of the Oakland Private Industry Council (OPIC); and Maritony & Associates. FIGB members from Sacramento, Stockton, and San Francisco also came out, further showcasing regional unity.

The overwhelming participation from so many groups and individuals is a testament to the power of unity in Oakland. In all, it was a joyous and successful day, showcasing what the city can achieve when the community comes together to uplift its own, fostering hope and strength for the future.

Special thanks to all the sponsors and supporters who made this event possible.

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