By Chloe Durant, Volunteer
OROVILLE, CA – In South Oroville, resilience isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a way of life. At the heart of this strength stands the African American Family & Cultural Center (AAFCC), a place where preparation meets purpose and where community care isn’t just offered-it’s embedded in every decision.
With the support of the American Red Cross California Gold Country Region’s Community Adaptation Program, the AAFCC is taking a bold step forward. No longer just a vital cultural hub, it’s becoming a launchpad for a new kind of readiness, one that continues to center on equity, empowerment, and local leadership.
Redefining Readiness-On South Oroville’s Terms
“Preparedness isn’t just about surviving the storm-it’s about knowing you have a place that will hold you through it,” said AAFCC Executive Director Tiffany McMillon.
From wildfires to power outages, South Oroville has faced more than its share of challenges. But instead of folding under pressure, the community, through the AAFCC, has persevered. Today, the center is transforming into a resilience hub: solar-powered, stocked with emergency essentials, and equipped to operate when everything else goes dark. It’s not just a shelter. It’s a lifeline.
Community First, Always
The transformation wouldn’t have happened overnight without the American Red Cross. But the magic lies in how the partnership unfolded. “They didn’t come in to tell us what to do,” said McMillon. “They came in and asked, ‘What do you
need? How can we support you?’ That made all the difference.”
By investing in trusted local voices and existing networks, the Red Cross helped the AAFCC accelerate its efforts without sacrificing its vision.
Building Forward, Together
At its core, the AAFCC isn’t just preparing for the next emergency; it’s shaping the future. From leadership training to youth mentorship, from cultural celebrations to community-led planning, the center is cultivating the next generation of leaders who will carry the torch forward.
“Resilience is about more than bouncing back,” McMillon said. “It’s about knowing your power, claiming your space, and writing a new story together.”
Tomorrow Starts Here
So, what’s next? “Everything,” McMillon said. “Tomorrow looks like a community that knows its worth, that leads with heart and holds each other up. That’s what we’re building, and we’re just getting started.”
Want to be part of the change? Learn how you can support the AAFCC’s mission here.
Gold Country News and Notes 