Making an Impact in Environmental Equity
In regions where climate-relevant economic sectors – such as energy, agriculture, and forestry – are increasingly present, community colleges serve as primary cultural and support centers, creating connections to hard-to-reach populations. Our colleges act as a primary link for residents to much-needed resources, particularly in regions whose cultural and economic assets are most vulnerable to climate change.
Community Outreach and Engagement
Supporting our communities and the environment.Community colleges are embedded into the fabric of diverse communities across the state. When agencies roll out new environmental incentive programs or launch awareness campaigns, FoundationCCC works with colleges and their partners to engage hard-to-reach and often disinvested communities, connecting them with state programs and critical resources. More recently, FoundationCCC supported an environmental state agency with the planning and implementation of community-led listening sessions to gather input on equitable investments and their benefits to communities. Building the next generation of climate leaders is also at the heart of FoundationCCC’s vision for an equitable climate future. Through dynamic programming, co-created with our funders and partners, FoundationCCC has supported students across the state in gaining hands-on experience in community outreach and engagement on critical climate issues.
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Environmental Equity Student Ambassador Program
Building community leaders in environmental and climate justice.The Environmental Equity Student Ambassador Program trains California community college students to promote access to a healthy and resilient environment for all people in the community. The program serves as an essential professional development and leadership opportunity where student ambassadors receive a stipend for participation and ongoing coaching and support.
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Replace Your Ride
Educating individuals on smarter transportation options.A long-standing partnership with the South Coast Air Quality Management District, FoundationCCC supports the Replace Your Ride program, which allows individuals to trade in their older, high polluting vehicles for a more fuel-efficient option. Leveraging its statewide outreach capabilities, FoundationCCC works to raise awareness of this program and connect Californians with newer, more energy efficient transportation options.
Smog Check Referee Program
Improving air quality statewide.The Smog Check Referee program, managed by FoundationCCC in partnership with the Bureau of Automotive Repair, was created to improve the smog check process and help reduce air pollution for all Californians. Referee centers are operated on local community college campuses and perform emissions inspections and other specialized testing that industry is not authorized to perform. Referee facilities provide a wide array of resources for California motorists associated with smog checks and repairs.