The City of Newark held a significant meeting on April 28, 2025, focusing on the progress and future plans for the Newark Resource Center. The meeting highlighted the construction timeline and programming initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and support.

Construction of the Newark Resource Center began in November 2024 and is on track for completion, with a grand opening anticipated in late summer, around August. The project is currently awaiting the completion of essential work by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), which is crucial for finalizing construction.

During the meeting, Jisinya Taymani, the recreation supervisor overseeing the human services division, outlined the center's core values: accessibility, collaboration, empowerment, and community building. These principles will guide the planning and programming of the center, ensuring that resources and services are inclusive and easily accessible to all community members.

Taymani emphasized the importance of partnerships with local organizations and businesses to expand services and outreach efforts. The center aims to foster self-sufficiency and personal growth among residents, creating a supportive environment where community members can connect and share ideas.

To gather community input, the project team has initiated several outreach efforts, including surveys and community listening sessions. A recent event at the Silliman Center attracted 30 local agencies and nonprofits, fostering collaboration and excitement about the center's future. The team has already collected feedback from 326 community members through surveys and plans to continue engaging residents through various events.

Looking ahead, the Newark Resource Center aims to establish a rotating schedule of local nonprofits providing services on-site, ensuring that community needs are met effectively. The next community listening session is scheduled for May 3 at the senior center, where residents will have the opportunity to voice their needs and aspirations for the center.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to creating a resource center that not only meets immediate community needs but also builds a strong foundation for future growth and collaboration. The grand opening is expected to be a significant community celebration, inviting all residents to participate in this new chapter for Newark.