Black, White and Light All Over

Lighthouse Community Charter School celebrated their 4th annual “Black, White & Light All Over” on October 9th at the Rotunda Building in Oakland. The event, which was attended by mre than 240 people, included silent and live auctions, a raffle, dinner, and dancing to Groove Layers. Other entertainment was provided by student singers,and guests could also purchase student artwork.

Stepping Stones 35th Anniversary

Stepping Stones Growth Center partied in style at the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate on Oct. 7 in honor of the organization’s 35th year at the 35 Years & Counting Anniversary Celebration. Delicious anniversary cupcakes were one of many bright spots in the evening. The San Leandro nonprofit seeks to improve the independence of those with developmental disabilities. www.steppingstonesgrowth.org

The Art of Living

The Oakland Museum of California was the setting on Oct. 10 for the Jewish Family & Children’s Service of the East Bay’s Art of Living event. Guests gained special access to the ongoing Pixar exhibit, PIXAR: 25 Years of Illustration, and heard from producer Galyn Susman and animator Andrew Gordon. The event honored First 5 Alameda County: Every Child Counts for support for JCFS/EB’s early childhood programs. www.jfcs-eastbay.org

BOSS Sesa Woruban Celebration

Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency, better known as BOSS, a Berkeley-based nonprofit, held a Sesa Woruban Celebration on Oct. 7 at the First Unitarian Church of Oakland. The Sesa Woruban is a West African Adinkra symbol meaning transformation. The event raised funds for BOSS programs for homeless people in Alameda County and celebrated positive changes in challenging times with African dinner, dance, music and readings from a special transformation writing contest. Transformation Awards were bestowed on local organizations and individuals doing important social change work in the community. www.self-sufficiency.org