Sept 25: Melrose Elects New Leadership - Braunz Courtney is now Vice Chair

Braunz Courtney learned there was an opening as Vice Chair, following the resignation of Co-Chair Nayeli Maxson in August, and inquired about the roles and responsibilities because he might want to run. After meeting with Stephanie Hayden, Chair, throughout August and September he decided to run and was elected as the new Vice Chair of Melrose Community Council, working with Stephanie Hayden.

Here’s Braunz’s bio

I am Braunz Courtney, your new Vice Chair and my interests lay in building collaboration between Melrose and other neighboring East Oakland districts.  As a collective group I want us to constructively identify present and arising issues, brainstorm solutions and create action items that hold ourselves and local government accountable. I want to see our efforts display impactful change in our communities.   As a Bay Area Realtor and Public Health professional rooted in Harm Reduction, I strive to increase awareness and access to tools that enhance the quality of life for us all to stay healthy, alive and able to thrive.  

Currently my occupational role in Public Health is the Operations Director of the HIV Education and Prevention Project of Alameda County (HEPPAC), our community’s Harm Reduction based agency.  We provide a basic needs drop-in center located in MELROSE on the corner of Foothill and Fairfax, mobile Harm Reduction supply distribution, overdose prevention training and access to Naloxone. 

HEPPAC services are provided across districts located in North, West, Central and Deep East Oakland.  Our mission is to stop the further spread of communicable diseases through education and prevention services. We encourage you to drop in, help build a stronger sense of community and see how our services can benefit you and those you care for.

Braunz jumped right into helping facilitate the new Action Committees as they met to discuss what they want to accomplish this year and next.