On May 1, the California Funders for Boys and Men of Color (CFBMoC) celebrated a major milestone: 10 years of collective work to advance equity, opportunity and justice for boys and men of color across our state.

We gathered with members, community leaders, advocates and allies to reflect on a decade of progress—and to look boldly toward the work still ahead. The evening was filled with joy, connection and a deep sense of purpose. With music, community and nourishment, we discussed our ongoing partnership and collective progress.

Over the last ten years, our network has helped drive transformational change. Together, we’ve contributed to a 70% reduction in youth incarceration and the closure of half of California’s youth prisons. These hard-won victories remind us of the power of collective action and what’s possible when we center the leadership, needs and voices of boys and men of color.

But we also recognize the moment we’re in. As progress accelerates, so does resistance. Systems of harm and punishment continue to shape the lives of too many youth. That’s why we’re more committed than ever to dismantling these systems and building new ones—ones rooted in healing, care, opportunity and economic freedom.

Throughout the evening, one theme was clear: real change requires courage, creativity and shared accountability. Our speakers called on us to listen to community voices, step outside our comfort zones and leverage the unique privilege of philanthropy to back bold coalitions and long-term strategies.

Together, we celebrated the incredible strength of our member network, whose commitment continues to fuel this work. Through shared values, collective learning and bold investments, we are reshaping California into a state where boys and men of color and their communities can truly thrive.