Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls Invites Prospective Commissioners to October 27 Mid-Term Planning Meeting

With a full leadership team, a new youth advocacy initiative, and opportunities for new Commissioners, the Commission turns its attention to community priorities, stronger public engagement, and modernizing its governance.

October 16, 2026 | Contra Costa County, CA

The Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls (CCCWG) invites community members and prospective Commissioners to attend its Mid-Term Planning Meeting on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., at 3338 Mt. Diablo Boulevard in Lafayette.

With its executive leadership team now fully established, the recent approval of the Young Women's Public Advocate Academy, and recruitment underway to fill remaining Commission vacancies, the Commission is preparing to strengthen its core role: serving as the eyes and ears of the community on issues affecting women and girls throughout Contra Costa County.

In a recent meeting with Contra Costa County Supervisor Candace Andersen, Commission Chair Marilyn Cachola Lucey was reminded of the Commission's greatest value to the Board of Supervisors: its connection to the community and its ability to identify unmet needs, recognize emerging concerns, and bring forward issues that might otherwise go unheard.

That conversation reinforces the direction of the Commission's upcoming planning meeting and its responsibility to turn community experiences into informed policy recommendations.

Under the leadership of the Executive Committee, the Commission will focus on identifying unmet needs, understanding emerging challenges, and bringing community-informed priorities and recommendations to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors.

"The Commission's greatest value is its connection to the community," said Chair Lucey. "We need to know what women and girls are experiencing across Contra Costa County, where services or opportunities are falling short, and which issues need the attention of our Board of Supervisors. Our job is to listen, connect the dots, and bring meaningful recommendations forward."

Modernizing How the Commission Serves

An important part of the October 27 planning discussion will be consideration of proposed amendments to the Commission's bylaws.

The Commission will explore ways to better reflect how people volunteer and participate in civic service today, reduce unnecessary barriers to participation, and make it easier for Commissioners to work effectively on behalf of their communities while maintaining transparency, accountability, and compliance with county requirements.

Among the proposals under consideration is lowering the minimum age for Commission membership to 16, opening the door for more meaningful youth representation in discussions about policies and programs that directly affect young people.

"Young people should have opportunities to participate in the decisions that shape their lives, not simply be invited to comment after those decisions have been made," said Lucey. "We also recognize that people who want to serve their communities are balancing work, school, family, and other responsibilities. Our governance practices should support meaningful public service while preserving the accountability expected of a county advisory body."

Any proposed bylaw amendments will be subject to the applicable review and approval processes.

Building Momentum for Community Advocacy

The planning meeting follows several developments that position the Commission to expand its public engagement and policy work.

The Commission's Executive Committee includes Chair Marilyn Cachola Lucey, Vice Chair Nakenya Allen, Secretary Shruti Adusumilli, and Treasurer Jennifer Rizzo.

The Commission has also approved the Young Women's Public Advocate Academy, an initiative developed under its Legislative Committee, chaired by Commissioner Sonya Bates. The program will introduce young women to civic participation, public policy, and advocacy, providing opportunities to develop skills and confidence as community leaders.

Program announcements and applications are expected to be released during the first week of November.

Together, these developments reflect a renewed emphasis on building the Commission's capacity to listen to residents, engage diverse communities, and translate what it learns into actionable recommendations for county leadership.

Public and Prospective Commissioners Encouraged to Attend

The Commission welcomes residents interested in learning more about its work, including individuals who have already submitted applications for appointment and those considering future service.

Attendees will have an opportunity to observe how Commissioners establish priorities, discuss governance improvements, and plan their work on behalf of women and girls throughout Contra Costa County. Public comment opportunities will be provided in accordance with the posted meeting agenda.

The Commission continues to recruit applicants for available seats. Residents interested in serving are encouraged to review the county's application process.

Meeting Information

• Date: Tuesday, October 27, 2026

• Time: 7:00 p.m.

• Location: 3338 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, CA 94549

• Who May Attend: All members of the public, including current and prospective Commission applicants

• Admission: Free and open to the public

  
  

About the Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls

The Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls is an advisory body to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. Its mission is to improve the economic status, social welfare, and overall quality of life for women and girls in Contra Costa County through public education, community engagement, legislative advocacy, and policy recommendations.

Individuals who either reside or work in Contra Costa County may apply.

Learn More and Get Involved

• Commission Website: www.cccwomenscommission.com

• Apply to Serve on a County Commission: Contra Costa County Boards, Committees and Commissions

• Official Meeting Calendar and Agendas: Contra Costa County Advisory Body Meetings

The public is welcome. Learn about the future of the Commission and how it serves women and girls throughout Contra Costa County.