Welcome to the first episode of a very special season!

This year, RCF Connects proudly celebrates 25 years of serving, connecting, and uplifting communities across Contra Costa County.

To kick off the season, we’re taking a heartfelt journey through our history with some of the people who helped shape it. Joining us are Jim Becker, our current CEO and longtime visionary leader; Betty Geishirt Cantrell, beloved retired staff member and champion for community voices; and Vern Whitmore, a former Board Member who helped guide our mission in its early years. Together, they’ll share behind-the-scenes stories, memorable milestones, and the powerful moments that helped RCF grow from a small community foundation into a regional force for equity and opportunity.

We’re thrilled to welcome back our incredible host, Suzette Chaumette, who brings her signature warmth, insight, and passion to this special conversation.

Tune in as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the next 25 years of building a better, more connected future — together.

Listen now and celebrate with us!

Learn more by visiting our website at: www.rcfconnects.org

This episode sheds light on Housing First, a transformative approach to homelessness that provides immediate, stable housing as the first step to rebuilding lives. Our guest speakers, Shyla Crowder and Ashlee Rountree co-managers of RCF Connect's new Housing First Initiative, discuss who benefits most from this model, the challenges faced by those transitioning into stable housing, and the wraparound support services needed for lasting success. From mental health and addiction support to community-building and employment assistance, we unpack what it truly takes to empower individuals and families on their journey to stability. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how housing can be the foundation for hope, dignity, and opportunity.

Learn more about Housing First

OUR HOST:

Suzettte Chaumette, Public Healtth Expert, Founder of FoodIndy and professional podcaster. Find out more about Suzeete on her website - ⁠BeFoodIndy.com⁠ and check out her ⁠LinkTree.⁠

THIS SEASON's SPONSOR:

This episode is brought to you by the generous sponsors of our second season of Unpack the Real Stuff -- ⁠Miocar.org.⁠ Miocar, shaping the future of clean transportation!

Our host Suzette Chaumette and our guest Marco Lemus dive into the roots of Urban Tilth, a transformative program in Richmond, CA, dedicated to building community health and resilience through food. Our guest speakers explore Urban Tilth’s mission to empower residents to grow their own food, reclaim food sovereignty, and champion food justice in the heart of Richmond. From sharing tips on nutrition to addressing how food systems influence community well-being, they reveal how communal gardens can nurture more than just plants—they nurture connection, self-care, and shared knowledge. Tune in to discover how Urban Tilth is seeding a future where food unites, sustains, and heals. LEARN MORE about Urban Tilth.

OUR HOST:

Suzettte Chaumette, Public Healtth Expert, Founder of FoodIndy and professional podcaster. Find out more about Suzeete on her website - ⁠BeFoodIndy.com⁠ and check out her ⁠LinkTree.⁠

THIS SEASON's SPONSOR:

This episode is brought to you by the generous sponsors of our second season of Unpack the Real Stuff -- ⁠Miocar.org.⁠ Miocar, shaping the future of clean transportation!