Santa Cruz Hub For Sustainable Living

In 2024, California Field School (CFS) provided transformative outdoor experiences for youth through six multi-day educational bike trips, serving approximately 50-60 participants with 23 days of direct programming. We maintained a 100% trip completion rate with zero safety incidents. Our program strengthened community partnerships, expanded collaborations with organizations like Waterside Workshops and Oakland Unified School District, and trained three new Field School leads. Additionally, we improved route options, storage infrastructure, and program logistics. Looking ahead, we are focused on fiscal sustainability through diversified funding, expanding partnerships, and increasing operational efficiency to continue empowering youth through outdoor education.

The Welcoming Network accompanies asylum seekers and recent refugees as they establish their new homes in Santa Cruz County. Volunteers assist New Neighbors in identifying needs and accessing essential resources, with a focus on housing, healthcare, and legal services. In 2024, we accompanied 17 new individuals (including 8 children), graduated 11 families, and are currently supporting 15 families into 2025. On average, we serve 15-20 families at any time. Our goal is to help New Neighbors secure legal status, stable housing, education, healthcare, and employment. This year, we expanded partnerships, launching a free asylum application clinic and strengthening outreach efforts to recruit more volunteers. Looking ahead to 2025, we aim to enhance advocacy and training to protect New Neighbors.