The Power of Strong Women in Our Community

Women play a huge role in our families, our communities, and our future. When they are empowered, entire communities thrive. Investing in women isn’t just about creating opportunities—it’s about building a stronger, healthier, and more just society for everyone.

From mothers and mentors to athletes and entrepreneurs, women and girls play a huge role in shaping the world around us. They lead with resilience and nurture with compassion. And we are proud to remain committed to ensuring they have the support, resources, and space they need to grow, succeed, and lead the next generation toward a brighter future.

Through DSAL’s free sports programs, we provide a safe space for everyone in our community to build strength, confidence, and leadership skills. Whether stepping into the boxing ring or taking the field, we all belong in every space—strong, capable, and empowered–together.

Just as sports provide a foundation for strength, resilience, and teamwork, entrepreneurship offers a path to independence, creativity, and economic growth. Whether on the field or in the kitchen, having access to the right resources and support allows individuals to take control of their futures and contribute to a thriving community.

DSAL’s Community Kitchen is a place where local food entrepreneurs turn their skills into successful businesses that nourish our area’s residents. By providing access to essential resources and opportunities, we support women and all aspiring chefs and food entrepreneurs in building sustainable careers in the culinary industry.

Economic empowerment strengthens families and communities, and we are proud to be part of a movement that builds wealth, fosters growth and independence, and drives long-term success.

We believe that when everyone has the opportunity to rise, we all rise together. By holding space to foster the potential of the women in our community, we are shaping a future where equity, safety, and opportunity are available to everyone.

Now is a critical time to celebrate and support the incredible women and girls who make our community stronger every day.

How you can help:

Support Local Women Entrepreneurs – Buy meals, catering services, or products from women-owned businesses working out of our Community Kitchen or in your neighborhood. Your support helps them grow, create local jobs, and provide for their families.

Donate – Help fund free sports programs for our community, including women and girls who might otherwise have no safe space to participate. The early opportunity to build confidence and leadership skills is priceless.

Encourage Girls to Play Sports – Sports build strength, team-building, and resilience. Cheer on young athletes, sign up a family member for our free Health and Fitness programs, or volunteer to help!

Be a Role Model – Lead by example by uplifting and supporting the women and girls in your life. A strong community is built when we all work together!

Building Champions: Anne Espinoza's Perspective on the Power of Youth Sports

"My name is Anne Espinoza, and I am currently assigned as a Sheriff’s Technician to the Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) unit. I graduated from Cal State East Bay, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration with a specialization in Criminal Justice and Enforcement, as well as Community Alternatives and Corrections.

Before beginning my career with the Sheriff's Office, I worked at Chabot College in Hayward as an administrative assistant for the Career Pathways Trust grant. I have always wanted to work with the community, particularly in the community where I am raising my children, which happens to be in unincorporated Alameda County."

"I started my career with the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office in August 2018, at the Regional Training Center (RTC), which is where our police academies are held, and various officer training programs are offered for personnel across the United States. In July 2024, I transferred from the RTC to the CORE unit."

"Growing up, I was deeply immersed in basketball throughout middle school, and in high school, I dove into swimming for a year. These sports were more than just activities—they were lifelines, connecting me to my school, my community, and the world around me. They didn’t just keep me focused and engaged; they gave me a sense of purpose and belonging. Through these experiences, I discovered the power of contributing not only to my own growth but also to my family and society. Sports became a way to make a positive impact and to build relationships that have shaped who I am today."

"I’ve seen firsthand how participation in sports can have a transformative impact on reducing crime rates. When children are actively involved in sports, they focus on their goals, which not only helps them thrive academically but also fosters a proactive, goal-driven mindset that extends into all areas of their lives. This kind of involvement encourages them to give back to their families and communities, creating a ripple effect of positive change. My own kids are involved in a variety of sports including the DSAL Boxing program, and I see how it keeps them physically and mentally sharp, motivated, and deeply connected to the community."

"My hope is that young athletes in DSAL’s programs develop a strong set of values and life skills that not only benefit their families’ socioeconomic well-being but also empower them to contribute to the greater good. It’s important for them to learn the importance of teamwork, supporting one another, and understanding the value of contributing to both the playing field and the community as a whole."

"I’m excited to continue my work as part of the CORE unit. I’m grateful; for the opportunity to serve the community and give back to the community where I am raising my children. The Sheriff’s Office is always open to ideas to stay engaged with the community."

Creative Sips - Bringing Flavor & Community on Wheels

Creative SIPS delivers a delightful mix of boba, coffee, smoothies, and small dessert snacks—perfect for any party size across the Bay Area. Beyond their food truck service, they offer bottled beverage drop-offs, table service, and catering-style drop-offs for smaller gatherings.

Committed to quality, they source coffee from local roasters and teas from Berkeley’s Blue Willow Teaspot. Sustainability is also a priority, with all drinks served in 100% compostable cups and straws.

Meimei Ma's journey has been one of growth and support, and she views every challenge that she has faced in her business as a valuable lesson that has made her a better person.

With the support of the DSAL Community Kitchen, Creative SIPS has gained valuable guidance on business expansion, budgeting, and financial planning.

"Sharing experiences with fellow entrepreneurs and learning from each other has been incredibly rewarding. A special thanks to Mikki for the hands-on budget support and to DSAL for creating an organized space for vendors."

Her advice for aspiring food entrepreneurs?

"Don’t be shy—ask questions! Keep reaching out, and you’ll find the right people to answer or connect you. Then do the same and offer help when you meet new entrepreneurs in the future."

With a café in San Leandro and a food truck catering and popping up throughout the Bay Area, you can follow Creative SIPS on their website, Facebook, or Instagram to see where they’ll be next, and get some of their delicious snacks for yourself!

Boxing Participant Yanny is DSAL’s Athlete of the Month

Over the past two years in DSAL Boxing, Yanny has transformed from quiet and reserved, into a strong, confident, and empowered young woman.

Her journey highlights the power of DSAL's programming in helping individuals build confidence, strength, and resilience—especially for women in traditionally male-dominated spaces.

Yanny trains with intensity and shows impressive skill. She rarely misses a class, and continuously pushes her limits. Beyond the gym, she is excelling in an internship where she’s praised as punctual, detail-oriented, and a joy to work with—a testament to the discipline and drive boxing has helped her grow.

"Boxing has changed the way I see myself. I feel more confident and secure, knowing I can defend myself if needed. That confidence has spilled over into other areas of my life, like staying active, handling challenges, and making choices that keep me safe. Taking care of my body through exercise benefits my mental health and overall well-being."

Her story is a reminder that sports are for everyone. Women deserve to feel strong, capable, and safe in their bodies. She hopes more women will step into the ring. "...and discover how empowering it is, both physically and mentally."

DSAL Boxing is about more than just learning a sport​—it’s about equipping individuals with confidence and life skills, and instilling a sense of responsibility. "Programs like this help create a safer community by teaching self-defense, awareness, and personal growth. Coaches emphasize using boxing skills only when necessary, fostering a culture of respect, discipline, and safety."

Through her dedication, Yanny is proving that boxing isn’t just about throwing punches—it’s about claiming space, finding strength, and lifting others up along the way.