Oakland has many problems, but the community-led initiative in Rise East is a reason to be hopeful for the city’s future. This ambitious 10-year plan is to revitalize all of Oakland by reviving one of its most neglected communities.

“Seeing the disparities in our area, our approach — to be on the ground — best served this population,” said Dr. Noha Aboeleta, the founder of Roots says. “ROOTS is a community-based response organization. Over the years we grew from two people to 200 full-time staff.”

Rise East, a $100 million philanthropic effort, will tackle longstanding systemic issues facing residents in a 40-square-block area.

Oakland Thrives is working to raise $50 million in local funding, which rise East organizers say will be matched by national philanthropic organization, bloom Meridian Partners.

East Oakland community leaders announced a major initiative to put $100 million back into the community.

OAKLAND -- It is one of the toughest neighborhoods in East Oakland, but some local residents are aiming to make a huge investment in the area and transform it for future generations.

Youth performers from Destiny Arts in Oakland were commissioned to write and produce a poem about East Oakland's Rise East 10 year plan.