Special Events: Celebrating Community, Connection, and Culture
RHA regularly organizes special events both online and in person. These events often feature guest speakers relevant to our local community, including public figures, representatives from city services and utilities, and educational activities designed to benefit community members.
Meet Chief Holly Joshi & Learn About Oakland’s Department of Violence Prevention
Join us for an important community conversation with Chief Holly Joshi, head of Oakland’s Department of Violence Prevention (DVP).
Founded in 2017, the DVP takes a public health approach to addressing violence—centering community voices and investing in healing, prevention, and support. Chief Joshi will share insights on how the department is working to build a safer, more stable Oakland, especially for families and neighborhoods most impacted by violence.

The DVP’s goals are clear and urgent:
- Reduce homicides and shootings.
- Reduce gender-based violence and commercial sexual exploitation.
- Reduce trauma caused by violence in our communities.
The DVP focuses on immediate crisis response and long-term support strategies to meet these goals. That includes:
- On-the-ground violence interrupters and life coaches working with those most at-risk
- Funding and partnering with local organizations for intervention and healing services
- Convening and supporting a network of community partners committed to peace and safety
This is a powerful opportunity to hear directly from Chief Joshi about the DVP’s work—and how we, as a community, can support these efforts.
Details
Date: Monday, April 21, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Zoom
Registration is required, as space is limited. The Zoom link will be provided on the day of the event.
Family Maker Event
Exciting Opportunity for Young Inventors in Oakland!
Does your child love to build and create? Join us for an unforgettable experience where kids ages 5-10 will test their skills, solve problems, and think creatively through hands-on projects! From building sturdy bridges to designing imaginative headgear, your little ones will explore the principles of design in fun, interactive ways. Led by Rochelle Jacobs, a beloved former Oakland teacher, Maker Educator, and Redwood Heights resident, whose mission is to give students hands-on opportunities to create. This special event is designed to spark curiosity and creativity. Don’t miss out on this amazing adventure!

Details
Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Redwood Heights Recreation Center, 3883 Aliso Ave, Oakland
Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Water, juice, and a small snack will be available.
We’d love for you to join us at the Family Maker Event! While registration is not mandatory, signing up beforehand will help us plan. If you cannot attend, please cancel your reservation so others may.
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Volunteers Needed
To make this event successful, we will need many volunteers to help the children at each station. Please consider volunteering!
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