It is my pleasure to welcome you to the first issue of the Research and Policy Institute of California (RPIC) newsletter, The Bridge Maker.  Over the past three years, I have had the unique privilege of taking part in the growth of this dynamic organization.  It is our vision that RPIC will continue to grow and bridge the gap that exists between the African American community and access to the resources which are essential to the economic, social, and educational well being of the African American people.

Each issue of our newsletters will be dedicated to providing information about RPIC’s current ventures, as well reporting on the success of those already completed.  Because the successes that RPIC has achieved are largely due to the involvement and    contributions of our many partners, supporters, and sponsors, each issue will also profile organizations and individuals that have aligned themselves with the vision of RPIC.  Our newsletter will also provide you with an opportunity to hear first hand from individuals, both youth and adults, who have benefited from the programs, trainings, conferences, and workshops that RPIC has assisted in implementing.

Our goal in the distribution of this newsletter is to provide you with a valuable resource that will help you stay informed about the issues affecting the African American community throughout California.  For your convenience, we will also make each issue of our newsletter available online.  To subscribe to the online version of The Bridge Maker visit www.calresearch.org. 

RPIC is a community based organization that holds fast to the belief that, “It takes a community. . . .”  We know that our vision cannot be fulfilled without help from community members at all levels.  Please be sure to share this newsletter with any and all who might benefit from knowing about the impact that RPIC is making throughout California.