Dear MDF Community,

I hope this message finds you healthy and strong. Much is happening around us and the extraordinary effort we have all placed into transitioning our world to a home-based model is truly unbelievable. Whether you woke up today focused on the latest events of COVID-19, the national and global movements to address systemic racism and inequality, or the fragile economic forecasts across the international community, it is important to recognize that these events have been heavy to hold. There is no doubt there will be much work to do in the coming months and years.

Building resilience to these challenges requires intentional compassion and care for both self and community, so I write you today with a simple reminder: MDF is here for you. 

I hope you have been able to take advantage of the new support opportunities available and for those who have not yet had the chance, or for those who would like to explore more, I invite you to discover the resources designed to help you take good care of yourself and to nurture others in the MDF community:

1. Local support groups
2. New toolkits and guides
3. New webinars and presentations
4. Yoga sessions
5. Mindfulness practice
6. Facebook chats
7. COVID-19 resources

Special thanks to the dozens of support group facilitators, authors and community review panelists for dedicating their time to help make these resources possible!

MDF’s new neighbors, the Oakland Symphony, recently shared an inspiring 130-person virtual performance of “Lean on Me,” so I send it to you as a reminder of our commitment to you: click here to watch their performance.

Wishing you all quality time with your loved ones and an active and healthy summer,

Tanya Stevenson, EdD, MPH
Chief Executive Officer

P.S. If you haven’t already, please be sure to participate in the Mid-Year Survey so we are aware of your interests and opinions and may continue to design valuable resources and initiatives!