HOW YOUR DONATION CAN HELP
Afro-Play Oakland is a Black-led, community-rooted organization that creates sacred, intergenerational spaces for Black families to heal, grow, and connect. Afro-Play is both a thematic family playgroup and a culturally affirming Family Resource Center. We offer everything from culturally rich children’s programming to childcare and mental health referrals, parenting support, free groceries, free books and community events. Our mission is rooted in Harambee, a Kiswahili word meaning "All pull together.” That spirit of collective uplift lives in everything we do.
We are thankful for your support of Afro-Play Oakland, where Black children and families come together to Play, Heal, Build and Grow together.
Mbegu Tier: $150–$500
“Seed” (Swahili): Planting the foundation for learning, creativity, and care
Your gift at this level directly supports the day-to-day experiences of Afro-Play families by helping provide:
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Culturally affirming books so children can build personal libraries that reflect the Black diaspora
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Art supplies and thematic classroom materials that bring Afrocentric learning to life
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Healthy snacks and community meals that nourish bodies while we build kinship
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“To Bloom / Flourish” (Swahili): Helping Afro-Play grow stronger, visible, and sustainable
Donations at this level help Afro-Play expand its capacity and stability through:
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Technology & infrastructure (website, email, subscriptions, software)
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Merchandise and earned-income initiatives that spread Black joy beyond the classroom
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Business insurance and operational tools that allow us to grow responsibly
Kuchanua Tier: $1,000–$5,000
"Roots" (Swahili): Strengthening the roots that support families and culture
These gifts provide deeper, long-term impact by funding:
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Cultural practitioners and guest artists for workshops and enrichment
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Emergency assistance for families in crisis, including housing and burial support
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Administrative and professional consultants to build strong, sustainable systems
Mizizi Tier: $10,000–$25,000
Creating lasting impact for generations to come
Leadership-level gifts help Afro-Play dream bigger and build permanence by supporting:
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Rent, security deposits, and long-term space stability in East Oakland
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Furniture, educational toys, storage, and office space for expanded programming
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General operating support to ensure Afro-Play remains a thriving community anchor