While most Berkeley youth and children are healthy, doing well in school, and getting the support they need to become thriving adults, this is not the case for all our children.Because of socioeconomic, environmental, and other factors, there are inequities in opportunity structures in Berkeley affecting families in low-wealth communities and young people of color. These disparities can lead to lower academic performance, higher rates of special education and disciplinary referrals, and mental and physical health problems.
We aim to build on Berkeley’s strong educational and social service systems and create a continuum of care that ensures the wellbeing of all kids and parents.Our goals are to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of the resources already available in Berkeley, build universal learning supports to reduce educational and wellness disparities, and work with existing assets in low-wealth communities.
Towards these ends, the Alliance convened the Berkeley Integrated Resources Initiative (BIRI), a major community change process that addresses a long-standing need for the city's institutions, agencies, and youth programs to change the way they work together. The goal has been to address economic, social, and environmental barriers to learning and promote healthy development for children, youth and families.
The BIRI Commitment
All Berkeley youth are safe and embraced by a community that nurtures their health and protects their spirits. Youth reach adulthood with the knowledge, skills and values to realize their full potential and participate meaningfully in the world.
The BIRI Vision
The Berkeley Unified School District, the City of Berkeley, the University of California Berkeley, local community organizations and key stakeholders work collectively and purposefully to identify and weave their relevant resources to effectively address barriers to learning and promote healthy development for all Berkeley children and youth.
The BIRI Structure
In 2006 the BIRI formed a Steering Committee composed of community representatives and city leaders (including the Mayor, the Chancellor, the Superintendent, and the City Manager). which provided strategic leadership, adopted priorities, and worked on policy-level change. A diverse Community Design Team met over the year to create a strategic change plan – an Agenda for Children and Youth – with a clear vision, set of outcomes and solid recommendations for action. From this framework workgroups have been formed such as the Schools Mental Health Partnership, the BIRI Coordinating Team, and the Birth to Five Action Team to analyze specific issues, develop strategies and make recommendations.
Though it is a long and challenging process, we are confident that the BIRI represents a new way for institutions and agencies to work together and create a comprehensive vision for youth and family wellness.
NEW ADDRESS:
2000 Hearst Ave., Suite 301
Berkeley, CA 94709
Ph: (510)845-7103
Fx: (510)845-5699 Email
