We emerge from this virtual convening in gratitude, with hope for what the future holds. The past year and a half have been immensely challenging. Pre-existing racial inequities have deepened, undermining communal well-being yet also clarifying the imperative to transform the systems intended to support health, opportunity, and flourishing for all.

As we observed during the Forum, our Santa Cruz County community has remained focused and committed to improving health outcomes day by day, in pandemic times and beyond. We credit an inspiring group of extremely dedicated local leaders who have called forth effective action from every corner of the community. Thank you to all of these leaders, and especially to Cat Willis, Jennifer Herrera, Maria Cadenas, Steve McKay, and members of the Safety Net Clinic Coalition, for inspiring our community to continue working together!