Since its founding in 1976, Hively has grown into a comprehensive support network for child care providers and families throughout Alameda County. Its services include child care referrals and subsidies, provider training and resources, mental health support, and essential supplies such as diapers, children’s clothing, and pantry staples, available at its family resource centers and the Hive on Wheels mobile resource van.

Under CEO Mary Hekl, who has led the organization since 2022, Hively has grown significantly by developing programs that respond to the community’s changing needs. The leadership team also includes Chief Program Officer Mona Shirk, who brings nearly 20 years of experience, and Chief Financial Officer Elaine Lenore. More than half of Hively’s staff are bilingual, serving the region’s diverse community with dignity and care.

In the last year alone, Hively supported over 10,000 people, providing subsidies for 3,842 children, more than $43 million in payments to child care providers, and 7,801.5 hours of therapy and case management. This year, Hively celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Impact

Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) works across Kern County to address poverty and strengthen communities through direct services and partnerships. Led by Kelly Lowry, CAPK’s Food Bank works through a network of more than 150 partner sites to address food insecurity throughout the region. Each month, the program distributes approximately 1.5 to 2 million pounds of food and assists an average of 158,000 people.

Impact

Founded in 1980, Valley Oak Children’s Services supports children and families throughout Butte County through child care, early learning, behavioral health, and literacy programs. At this year’s Annual Book Fair alone, more than 380 children left with over 1,900 free books, part of a year-round effort that has distributed over 10,000 books through its Lending Library and community partnerships.

Impact