Thanks for Joining us for An Emerald Evening!

An Emerald Evening was a huge success for the Family Independence Initiative (FII) thanks to the support of generous hosts and sponsors. More than $330,000 was raised through this event which will directly help families in our communities set and reach their goals, secure financial stability and chart a permanent path out of poverty.

There are many ways to get involved with FII and the families with whom they work — from providing families with expertise and connections to helping families organize workshops and events. If you are interested in learning more please contact the GreenLight Fund or reach out to FII Boston Director Jesús Gerena.

Family Independence Initiative

Family Independence Initiative’s (FII) mission is to create an opportunity rich environment that invests resources in low-income communities based on the strengths and initiatives families demonstrate to improve their lives and the lives of others in their communities.

FII uses one of the most innovative approaches we’ve seen to how our community and country think about and address poverty. Inspired by historical and modern examples of friends working together, FII empowers peer groups of underserved families to help each other help themselves.

FII provides families computers, access to small amounts of capital, and connections to opportunities – it’s up to the FII families to set their own goals and choose their own pathways out of poverty. In FII’s first eight years working in Oakland, Hawaii and San Francisco, families have demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness, and have made significant progress in helping themselves and creating a positive ripple effect in their greater communities.