Showing Up for Love and Legacy: BOSS Joins the LoveLife Foundation Week of Action

This past week, BOSS stood shoulder to shoulder with the LoveLife Foundation, led by Executive Director Don Lacy, in a powerful series of events honoring his daughter’s life and legacy. What started as a memorial grew into a movement — a week of community engagement that called us all to be present, participate, and protect.

We don’t believe safety is a service; we believe safety is something we build together. And that belief showed up in action. Our Violence Interrupters, Haven for Black Healing leaders, and Credible Messengers participated in community clean-ups, events, and healing spaces as part of this shared call for transformation.

Every step of the way, our teams remained grounded in their purpose: to reduce harm, build trust, and create a community where everyone feels seen and supported.

They didn’t lead with force, and they didn’t show up for credit. They led with care and showed up with commitment.

BOSS recognizes and honors the long legacy of safety, wellness, and community care in Oakland and beyond. We uplift the LoveLife Foundation and Don Lacy for their unwavering leadership and for creating space for healing, reflection, and joy — even in the face of grief.

In a world where violence often goes viral but healing doesn’t, Violence Interrupters and Credible Messengers are building something different. They walk into trauma and bring peace. They speak the language of the streets and translate it into safety and survival. 

Now more than ever, in the face of rising community trauma and national uncertainty, we need people who are committed to restoration over punishment. Yes, Violence Interrupters reduce harm, but they also restore hope.

As we continue this work, we are reminded: true transformation happens when we move together — rooted in love, fueled by justice, and committed to collective healing.

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