By CW, The Freelancer
On April 26, 2025, the Willie Henderson Sports Complex buzzed with community spirit as It Takes A Village Community Organization and Sisters Helping Sisters Weather The Storm hosted their 1st Annual Resource Fair. From 12 noon to 4 p.m., the event served as a vibrant hub of support, connection, and inspiration despite the unexpected turn in the weather.
The fair began under cool skies, but soon, the clouds opened with sporadic rain. Yet neither the organizers nor the attendees let the weather dampen the mission. People continued to arrive in waves, umbrellas in hand and hearts wide open.
Attendees were treated to a free hot meal, and families enjoyed kid-friendly activities including arts and crafts and a lively jumper that bounced with laughter throughout the afternoon.
Vendors participating in the event were: Fresh Soil Mentoring, Choice Medical Group, Alliance Trulovev, McAlister, Charolette M., Guillermo, Logan Heights CDC, MHASD, UPAC Mobile Response Team, Black Infant Health, Lady Kn8ghts SC, Giving Hands, 4 Ever Noted, Inspire SD, Royal Push, Junk Yard Crew, J2, Fathers First, SD County, Torrance Access Wireless, Project Aware, Whitney Turner, and Promise2Kids.
When asked what inspired the event, Malika Hollins, one of the lead organizers, shared, “It was inspired by the growing needs we see in our community every day. Many of our community members aren’t aware of the valuable resources available to them, so we wanted to create a welcoming space where they could connect with support, services, and opportunities all in one place.”
The fair was not just about resources, it was a celebration of unity and perseverance. Even rain couldn’t wash away the power of neighbors helping neighbors.
As the tents came down and the final meals were served, a lasting impression remained: when a village comes together, transformation is possible.
What would our communities look like if access to support wasn’t the exception, but the norm?
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