Donor & Volunteer Spotlight: Cylusʼ STORY

When Oakland native Cylus returned home from college, he felt disconnected from the city that raised him. The isolation of the pandemic deepened that distance. But as needs grew in East Oakland — families stretching groceries, elders skipping meals, unhoused neighbors gathering in encampments — he felt called to serve. 

He found EOC through the City of Oakland’s volunteer listings —but what keeps him coming back to volunteer every week is that he found a community-rooted space where every person is fed and welcomed with dignity. 

“I wanted to connect with people face to face,” he shared. 

“At EOC, I found volunteers and program leads who show up for everyone, no matter what.” 
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For more than two years, he has volunteered weekly — sorting produce, stocking shelves, handing out groceries, and getting to know the neighbors who rely on EOC.

He still remembers the moment that changed everything: his first Feed the Hood outreach. 

“Any worries disappeared within minutes. People were kind, grateful, relieved to be treated with dignity. It changed my whole understanding of community care.” 
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And when he talks about our staff — supported by your gifts — he says: 
“Even when resources are low, EOC finds a way to offer food, support, or simply a safe place.”