On Tuesday, June 20th, The Unity Council celebrated a historic milestone for Oakland with the grand opening of the Wilma Chan Child Development Center, named in honor of the late Alameda County Supervisor, Wilma Chan. The event was attended by a distinguished group of local leaders and family members, who gathered to honor Supervisor Chan’s remarkable legacy and her lasting impact on the community.
Among the honored guests were Daren Chan, son of the late Supervisor, Supervisor Dave Brown, Oakland Deputy Mayor Dr. Mayfield, Assemblywoman Bonta, Councilmember Kevin Jenkins, Unity Council VP Luis Arenas, and Unity Council CEO Chris Iglesias. Each made heartfelt remarks, reflecting on Wilma Chan’s commitment to social justice and her tireless work advocating for early childhood education, civil rights, and healthcare.
Wilma Chan’s career was marked by her passionate activism, particularly for the underserved communities in Alameda County. She was the first Asian American elected to the Alameda County Board of Supervisors, and her work left an indelible mark on the region. Her dedication to early childhood education was especially impactful in the Fruitvale area of Oakland, where The Unity Council serves over 5,000 families each year.
The opening of the Wilma Chan Child Development Center is a fitting tribute to her legacy, providing vital support to children and families in a community she held dear. The Unity Council is proud to carry on her work by fostering early childhood development and continuing to advocate for equity and access for all.
This new center represents more than just a building; it is a beacon of hope for the future of Fruitvale and a testament to Wilma Chan’s enduring commitment to social justice and education.
For more information about the Wilma Chan Child Development Center visit Head Start on the unitycouncil.org website.
