THE EDGE
Oakland Fund’s
Monthly Newsletter
The Edge is the Oakland Fund’s monthly newsletter and thought platform. Each issue offers a digest of key initiatives, partnerships, events, and stories advancing the Fund’s mission and shaping Oakland’s future. More than updates, The Edge highlights bold ideas and fresh perspectives that move our city forward.
FEATURED POST
Bringing an HBCU to Oakland
July 2026
This month, the Oakland HBCU Initiative — led by Taína Knox, Kim Thompson, and Dr. Kimberly Mayfield Lynch — brought its vision for a Historically Black College or University presence in Oakland to a standing-room-only crowd of business, government, and community leaders, then took that vision national at the UNCF UNITE 2026 Conference alongside HR&A Advisors. Organizer Kim Thompson also shared the story with KTVU's Talk of the Town. Plus, we bid farewell to four outgoing Board members and welcomed three new ones. Here's everything that moved us this month.
Bringing an HBCU to Oakland
This July, the Oakland HBCU Initiative turned growing momentum into action—bringing its vision to local leaders, the national stage, and new audiences across Oakland.
A June Full of Community, Culture, and Connection
From the launch of the new Oaktown Thursdays event series to Juneteenth celebrations, here's what inspired us this month.
Rooted and Rising in Oakland
Juneteenth reflections, OakTown Thursdays, community celebrations across Oakland, and we’re hiring!
Celebrating the Idora: Oakland’s First Educator Housing Acquisition
A new model for educator housing takes root in Oakland—plus the impact, story, and what’s ahead.