


Local Corps Spotlight
CAL FIRE Train-the-Trainer
February 2025
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The California Local Conservation Corps Foundation (CLCCF) is proud to share an update on our Statewide Local Training, Resilience, and Job Placement project, made possible through a $3.4 million grant from the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). This initiative is designed to prepare local corps participants for careers as forestry technicians and seasonal firefighters, ultimately training over 300 corpsmembers and 40 supervisors statewide.
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As part of this effort, CLCCF recently completed two intensive train-the-trainer sessions—one at Butano State Park and one at Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park. Each session included a full day of classroom instruction followed by three days of hands-on field training, equipping staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to train corpsmembers in forest management, wildfire mitigation, and wood product utilization. With these trainings completed, staff are now prepared to develop the next generation of forestry and fire protection professionals.
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By providing specialized training, certifications, and career development opportunities, this initiative strengthens California’s wildfire preparedness and environmental resilience. CLCCF remains committed to empowering young adults through education, employment, and environmental stewardship, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for communities across the state.

Alumni Spotlight
Simboa Wright
January 2025
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Simboa Wright, a Wastewater Collection Worker II with the City of Los Angeles, has been an SEIU 721 member for over 20 years and was elected Vice President in 2022. His journey from being a foster youth to a Corpsmember and now a union leader showcases his dedication to community service. Simboa has been instrumental in advocating for workplace safety and fairness, and his efforts have led to impactful changes like the $15 minimum wage and the Targeted Local Hire program. He also formerly served on the board of the LA Conservation Corps, continuing his lifelong commitment to service.
The California Local Conservation Corps Foundation is proud to highlight and shine a spotlight on Simboa Wright, who has built an inspiring career from his beginnings with the Los Angeles Conservation Corps to his current role as Vice President of SEIU Local 721. His journey reflects a deep commitment to public service, labor rights, and community advocacy.
Born at MLK Jr. Hospital and raised in the LA County foster system, Simboa found a pivotal support network within SEIU members throughout his early life. His involvement with the Los Angeles Conservation Corps as a teenager ignited his passion for civil service and advocacy, laying the groundwork for a lifetime dedicated to making a difference.
In his early twenties, Simboa began working with LA Sanitation, launching a career focused on improving worker safety, ensuring fairness, and fighting for equitable contracts. Over the past two decades, he has been a tireless advocate, leading efforts to address workplace injustices and championing policies that support the community.
Simboa's leadership has been key in achieving major initiatives such as the $15 minimum wage, the Targeted Local Hire program, and the 1,000 Strong initiative, which connects workers with opportunities in public works. Beyond his union contributions, he recently served on the board of the LA Conservation Corps, giving back to the organization that helped shape his path. He continues to serve as the Vice President of SEIU Local 721 and also serves on Governor Newsom’s Commission on Racial Equity. Simboa Wright’s story highlights the transformative power of dedicated leadership. His positive, accessible, and selfless approach continues to inspire those around him, solidifying his legacy as a champion for workers and a beacon of hope for future generations.

Thanks to Our Funder
AES Grant
January 2025
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The California Local Conservation Corps Foundation (CLCCF) is excited to announce a $25,000 grant award from AES. This crucial funding will support the development of an innovative online curriculum aimed at enhancing the education and training of the 3,000 Corpsmembers across California's 14 Local Conservation Corps. This project underscores our commitment to Corpsmember growth and the advancement of California's climate goals.
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The new curriculum will cover essential topics such as climate resiliency, fire prevention, and nature-based solutions, providing Corpsmembers with vital knowledge to address the state’s pressing environmental challenges. It will also introduce them to various career pathways in climate and environmental sectors, equipping them with the skills needed for a sustainable future. Additionally, the curriculum will offer insights into the unique missions of each Local Corps, fostering a deeper connection and understanding of their roles within the broader conservation effort.
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This grant is a significant boost to our ongoing efforts to empower local communities through education and practical training. By preparing Corpsmembers to take on key roles in climate resilience and environmental protection, we are helping build a more sustainable and resilient California.
We extend our sincere gratitude to AES for their generous support. This partnership is a vital step forward in creating a knowledgeable, proactive community ready to meet the challenges of climate change. Stay tuned for updates as we launch this transformative educational initiative.


Corpsmember Spotlight
The Corps Network: Corpsmember of the Year Awardees
January 2025
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Congratulations to 2025 Corpsmembers of the Year: Thomas Kauffman and Belen Reyes!
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We are proud to celebrate Thomas Kauffman from Civicorps and Belen Reyes from San Jose Conservation Corps (SJCC) as recipients of The Corps Network’s 2025 Corpsmember of the Year Awards. These outstanding individuals will be honored at The Corps Network’s National Conference in Arlington, Virginia, from March 11-13, 2025.
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Thomas Kauffman’s journey with Civicorps is a testament to resilience and leadership. After joining Civicorps in 2022, Thomas quickly distinguished himself through his impeccable attendance, positive attitude, and willingness to assist wherever needed. His rapid progression to Crew Leader and subsequent success in the Conservation Crew Leader Academy showcased his technical skills and leadership qualities. Thomas’s creative contributions as Civicorps’ first Video Intern brought the organization’s mission to life, while his role on the Appeal Panel demonstrated his commitment to justice and community service. His aspirations to become a park ranger or a drone operator for firefighting and search-and-rescue operations underscore his dedication to public service and environmental stewardship.
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Belen Reyes’s journey with SJCC is equally inspiring. Over four AmeriCorps terms, Belen has exemplified the power of perseverance and community service. Despite personal hardships, including a fire that destroyed her home, Belen found a supportive community at SJCC, where she earned her high school diploma and became a leader on the Zero Waste Team. Her commitment to environmental stewardship and advocacy work with the Youth Liberation Movement highlights her dedication to making a difference. Belen’s future plans include pursuing a medical career and advocating for youth affected by housing and food insecurity, generational trauma, and systemic oppression.
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We are incredibly proud to have Thomas and Belen represent California in receiving these prestigious awards. Their remarkable achievements and contributions are shining examples of the transformative power of the Corps experience and the positive impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities and the environment.


Thanks to Our Funder
Fire Training Partnership
December 2024
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The California Local Conservation Corps Foundation (CLCCF) is excited to announce a transformative partnership with CAL FIRE and the Working on Fire Training Academy to launch a new training and job placement initiative. Funded by a $3.4 million CAL FIRE grant, this program will provide Corpsmembers with specialized training in fire prevention and firefighting, preparing them for careers with CAL FIRE, the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and local fire agencies. Corpsmembers who complete the program will be equipped with the skills and certifications needed to step into crucial Forestry Technician and seasonal firefighting roles.
This partnership reflects CLCCF's commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development. By offering hands-on training, certifications, and job placement support, the initiative helps create pathways to sustainable careers for underserved young Californians. The program also plays a critical role in enhancing California's preparedness for wildfire seasons, aligning with the state's long-term goals for environmental stewardship and resilience.
The project is set to run from June 4, 2024, through March 31, 2026, with a pilot program already underway in collaboration with the Fresno and Orange County Local Conservation Corps. This pilot will serve as a model for expanding the program statewide, helping to build a more resilient and sustainable future for California.

Local Corps Spotlight
Fuels Reduction Program
November 2024
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The Local Conservation Corps play an important role in reducing California’s risk of wildfires. The Southern California Mountains Foundation’s Fuels Reduction partnership with Ramona Band of Cahuilla helps by creating defensible space to lower fire risks around new homes and infrastructure on the Ramona Reservation. Flammable materials are cleared within 50 feet of these areas. Vegetation within 100 feet is thinned to ensure 10-20 feet gaps between trees and shrubs. Trees are trimmed up to at least 10 feet from the ground, and any dead or fallen trees are removed. The Ramona Environmental staff supervise and monitor this work. This project is in collaboration with the California Conservation Corps and funded through Nature Based Solutions.

Local Corps Spotlight
Land Management Program
November 2024
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CLCC Foundation is proud to share that Urban Corps of San Diego County offers land management and habitat restoration services through an integrated program that trains and educates local youth. Their goal in acquiring and managing land is to conserve, manage, restore and enhance open space and mitigation lands for the health and safety of Californians. They collaborate with U.S. & California Fish and Wildlife, the Army Corps of Engineers, and others involved in the management of open space. Together with their partner biologist—a San Diego County CEQA Consultant—they are qualified to plan, implement and monitor the biological preservation of sensitive plant and wildlife habitats. They have also performed extensive habitat restoration work at the San Diego River, Tijuana Estuary, Alvarado Creek, Chollas Creek, Adobe Falls, Mission Trails Regional Park and Old Mission Dam.

Corpsmember Spotlight
John Gallo & River Rangers
November 2024
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John Gallo and Los Angeles Conservation Corps River Rangers are in the news! Thank you LA CityView35 for covering this essential program that’s creating opportunities for young adults and keeping the LA River beautiful. And shoutout to the Office of Community Beautification for supporting and implementing this important program.The River Rangers program is a state-funded effort through the Californians For All grant. Thank you, California Volunteers!

Corpsmember Spotlight
Naudika Williams
November 2024
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Our Alumni Support Program, sponsored by re:wild, continues to help alumni and transitioning Corpsmembers throughout the state, as they move into climate or conservation related careers or college enrollment. Naudika Williams, a former Civicorps corpsmember, was provided a bike to commute to their new wastewater department internship with East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD). The internship is part of a Limited Term Special Employment Program (SEP) Community Trainee Program (CTP). It is a one year employment program providing training and work experience. Naudika commutes from Richmond to Oakland on the Metro and bikes to the train stations to and from.

Local Corps Spotlight
Herbicides Safety Training
October 2024
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Southern California Mountains Foundation’s Urban Conservation Corps collaborated with the Inland Empire Resource Conservation District to provide Corpsmembers with comprehensive training and certifications necessary for the safe application of herbicides. This specialized training is designed to equip the Corpsmembers with the knowledge and skills required for environmental conservation efforts, particularly in ecosystems where invasive species pose significant threats. The initiative is in preparation for the upcoming Palm Canyon Spikes project, a significant environmental conservation effort aimed at removing the invasive tamarisk species from an essential watershed in the Desert. By tackling the spread of tamarisk, which can deplete water resources, this project will help restore the natural habitat, benefiting native plants and wildlife as well as supporting the overall health of the ecosystem. Through these efforts, the Urban Conservation Corps and IERCD aim to create a more sustainable environment and provide valuable experience and skill-building opportunities for Corpsmembers.

Local Corps Spotlight
Forklift Certification
October 2024
Corpsmembers from across Los Angeles County have been participating in forklift training at the Los Angeles Conservations Corps’ Northeast LA site. This training ends with an industry-recognized certification that opens doors to a variety of career pathways for Corpsmembers. They start in the classroom, and then they apply the skills they’ve learned, with an eye toward continued growth and advancement. Forklift certification typically involves a written test and a skills test to demonstrate safe operation. The certification, which must be renewed every three years, can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries. Thank you to our funders for supporting transformative programs like this one that impact the lives of young Californians every day.

Corpsmember Spotlight
David Millenge
October 2024
Exciting news from Capitol Hill! This year, David Millenge, recognized as the Corpsmember of the Year from the Urban Corps of San Diego, had the incredible experience of representing his organization during the Corps Network’s Hill Day in Washington, D.C. David had the opportunity to meet with U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler to discuss the vital work and mission of the American Climate Corps. Their discussions focused on the importance of investing in sustainable initiatives, empowering young leaders, and driving forward the national effort to combat climate change. We're proud to see David bringing attention to the impact of Corpsmembers across the country!

Alumni Spotlight
Mohammad
October 2024
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The CLCC Foundation is thrilled to share that through funds secured from the re:wild organization for our Alumni Support Program, we are able to directly support Corpsmembers as they navigate challenges and pursue their goals. Mohammad, a recent high school graduate from Urban Corps Charter School of San Diego, chose to attend college to further develop his interest in conservation biology. When Mohammad enrolled in Grossmont College’s biology program, our re:wild alumni support funds equipped him with the resources needed to successfully work toward his educational goals. The Foundation is incredibly proud of Mohammad and grateful to re:wild for their generous support.
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Thanks to Our Funder
CalFire Grant
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CLCCF Receives $3.4 Million Grant from CalFire for Statewide Training and Job Placement Project
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September 10, 2024
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Contact: Samantha Samuelsen
California Local Conservation Corps Foundation
Email: info@LocalCorpsFoundation.org
Phone: 310-597-4570
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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – The California Local Conservation Corps Foundation is pleased to announce the receipt of a $3.4 million grant from the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire). This funding will support the “Statewide Local Training, Resilience, and Job Placement” project, which aims to enhance training, resilience, and job placement opportunities for Corpsmembers across California.
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With this grant, California’s Local Corps will be able to train over 300 Corpsmembers and 40 supervisors. The comprehensive program will offer job placement services, resume building, and interview preparation for positions such as forestry technicians and seasonal firefighters.
This initiative is designed to equip corpsmembers with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue rewarding careers in forestry and fire protection.
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"We are incredibly grateful to CalFire for their support of our 'Statewide Local Training, Resilience, and Job Placement' project," said Bruce Saito, Executive Director of the California Local Conservation Corps Foundation. "This grant will significantly enhance our ability to train and prepare Corpsmembers for essential roles in forestry and fire protection, contributing to the safety and resilience of our communities."​
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"CalFire is proud to support the California Local Conservation Corps Foundation in their mission to train the next generation of forestry technicians and seasonal firefighters," said Justin Britton, CalFire Forester II and Grant Manager. "This initiative aligns with our commitment to workforce development and community resilience, ensuring that we have well-trained individuals ready to protect our forests and respond to fire emergencies."
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The California Local Conservation Corps Foundation is dedicated to providing young adults with opportunities for education, employment, and a path to joining the green economy. This grant from CalFire marks a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to create a skilled and resilient workforce to mitigate climate risk and ensure a safer environment for all Californians.
For more information about the California Local Conservation Corps Foundation and the “Statewide Local Training, Resilience, and Job Placement” project, please contact us at info@LocalCorpsFoundation.org.
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Thanks to Our Funder
Walter S. Johnson Foundation Grant
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Walter S. Johnson Foundation Generously Awards CLCCF Funds to Drive Impact
September 10, 2024
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Contact: Samantha Samuelsen
California Local Conservation Corps Foundation
Email: Info@LocalCorpsFoundation.org
Phone: (310) 597-4570
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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – The California Local Conservation Corps Foundation (CLCCF) has received a generous grant of $100,000 from The Walter S. Johnson Foundation (Foundation). This significant contribution enables CLCCF to achieve its vision and goals through enhanced marketing and communication activities, the creation of a robust data collection system, and support of fund development and program management efforts.
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The Walter S. Johnson Foundation is focused on helping youth and young adults (ages 14 - 26) succeed in adulthood with a focus on college pathways for foster youth, reforming systems, and expanding employment and career opportunities.
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“We have been long-term supporters of the Local Corps and seeding the Foundation allows us to help all 14 Corps to continue to positively impact young lives and help preserve our precious natural resources, like safe drinking water and clean air,” said Yali Lincroft, Program Director with the Walter S. Johnson Foundation. “This grant enables a swift ramp up to expand their statewide impact.”
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The Foundation’s generous contribution enables CLCCF to expand its impact by supporting California's Local Conservation Corps (Local Corps) work to protect our environment and transform lives. This investment will ensure availability of necessary tools and resources for Local Corps to communicate their mission, measure outcomes, and secure additional funding for vital programs.
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"We are incredibly grateful to the Walter S. Johnson Foundation for their generous support," said Bruce Saito, Executive Director of the CLCCF. "This grant will allow us to strengthen our infrastructure and support the local corps in their efforts to make a positive environmental impact while providing life-changing opportunities for young people across California."
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For more information about the California Local Conservation Corps Foundation and its programs, please visit www.LocalCorpsFoundation.org or contact Info@localcorpsfoundation.org.
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The California Local Conservation Corps Foundation’s mission is to help educate and train the next generation of environmental stewards by increasing investments to strengthen and grow the Local Conservation Corps movement. With a network of 14 community-based organizations across the state, the Corps provide young adults (ages 18-26) with paid on-the-job training, career, and educational pathways while conserving the environment and giving back to the communities they serve.
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The Walter S. Johnson Foundation assists transition-aged foster and other vulnerable youth in Northern California and Nevada to become successful adults by promoting positive change to the policies and systems that serve them and supporting high-impact and promising practices in the following areas: provision of supportive services, and promotion of success in secondary education and career.

Partner Spotlight
National Park Service
In May, the California Local Conservation Corps Foundation received a 5 year servicewide master agreement from the National Park Service that all 14 Local Conservation Corps can utilize. Since its receipt, the Foundation has set up their internal processes and put together marketing materials for Corps to connect with the Local Parks for opportunities to work together.
The agreement allows Local Corps to enter into agreements with their Local Corps to complete natural and cultural resource conservation projects. This is exciting news to help build and develop new relationships and increase existing relationships between NPS units and Local Corps. Partnerships with National Park Service will also support Local Corps and their Corpsmembers with access to new opportunities, paid work experience, access to public parks and potentially open job opportunities.

Corpsmember Spotlight
Antoine Penn
Oakland native Antoine Penn originally joined the East Bay Conservation Corps in May 2005 as a Corpsmember and was promoted to become an Operations Intern. In 2007, he joined the California Conservation Corps in Ukiah, where he earned his high school diploma and served as a Wildland Firefighter, Trail Specialist and Habitat Restoration Specialist.
Antoine was promoted to Fire Supervisor where he served from 2012 to 2015. He returned to Oakland and Civicorps in 2016 as a Field Supervisor and promoted to Recycling Supervisor and ultimately his current role as Recycling Coordinator.
Antoine credits the Local Corps for transforming his life and providing a better path forward. Antoine says that being that change agent in other young peoples lives is his favorite part of his work. On a personal note, Antoine likes to spend time in nature, practice mindfulness & meditation, enjoys reading and creative writing, and spending time with his family.
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Thanks to Our Funder
California Invasive Plant Council
Thanks to of a generous grant from the Hearst Foundation, the California Local Conservation Corps Foundation is partnering with the California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) to train Corps staff from all 14 Corps locations across the state in the principles of land stewardship.
Corps staff will build their ability to teach these principles to Corpsmembers. Over time, this education could reach thousands of Corpsmembers as California seeks a larger and more diverse stewardship workforce.
Constance Taylor, Conservation Specialist for Cal-IPC, commented that "Cal-IPC is thrilled for this opportunity to build California's green workforce, improve conservation project outcomes, and keep these emerging professionals in the conservation field as they build an understanding of the positive impact their work has."
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Donor Spotlight
Yali Lincroft
The CLCC Foundation interviewed Yali Lincroft, Vice President of Philanthropic Services at Walter S. Johnson Foundation, which is a founding donor of the CLCC Foundation.
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What is your professional experience? How did you get into the philanthropic world?
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​I have been at the Walter S. Johnson Foundation for over 10 years. I am also very well connected and care about a lot of needs in my community as a board member for the Children’s Campaign Fund and the National Association of Council for Children. I also have varied experience in local, state and federal level program planning and legislation focused on children and vulnerable populations involved with the public welfare system.
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​What are the Walter S. Johnson Foundation’s focuses?
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​Our focuses are both narrow and broad! We focus on disconnected youth - youth not in school and not in work. We are broad in who we support and who does that work - and this can be from all types of organizations and agencies doing good work to help support disconnected youth.
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What is your favorite part of the work you do at the Foundation?
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I love the chance to meet people and organizations, like the California Local Conservation Corps Foundation. I love working with great missions and great experienced leaders to make a change for their mission and the population they serve. It is in the passionate individuals at organizations where you can see how much they believe in what they do. I love going on-site visits and seeing the work in action. Another one of my favorite parts of the work I do is seeing Corpsmembers who now lead the Local Corps organizations or have jobs in state government, as a CAL FIRE firefighter for instance. I believe young people can make tremendous change if given the opportunity.
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You are one of the California Local Conservation Corps Foundations (CLCCF) initial funders. You believed in our mission from the very beginning. What interested you about CLCCF?
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The Foundation currently funds some of the Bay Area Local Corps, so I was already bought into and knew the reach and success of the Local Conservation Corps in California. CLCCF’s Executive Director, Bruce Saito brought a lot of credibility to your organization. Bruce is a successful leader and has been in the field for most of his life and has credibility with his peers, not just in California but everywhere. ​
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I also believe in the value of Corps programs. Local Conservation Corps offer an option where young people can go as far as they can. They can stay at the Conservation Corps and become someone like Bruce or become a firefighter - or take that skill set and move on to college.
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We also know that while funding the Foundation, we know we are helping and funding all 14 Corps to do their work. Our support has helped support the basic and critical needs for success as young people - sometimes including food, so they are not hungry and can focus, learn and work.
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One way that disconnected youth need to be supported is through their mental health. It is more important than ever to have the support programs in place, access to resources, and ways to talk about and support those needs. Right now, wait lists can be up to 2 years. Mental health is not something that can wait that long. No way. Local Corps help fill those gaps for these disconnected youth and we are happy to be a part of that work.​ While you are not a mental health organization, if their head is not in the right place, the job training program can’t do its job.
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How does WSJF and CLCCF connect in their missions and interests?
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Both my Foundation and the Local Corps in California work on the same critical population of disconnected youth. Our goal is creating space for and bettering lives for disconnected youth, which is exactly the work of your foundation and the 14 Local Conservation Corps in the state of California.

Thanks to Our Funder
re:wild Grant
The Local Conservation Corps Foundation is pleased to share that we secured funding through the Re:wild organization for our alumni support program.
Re:wild is an organization that brings people from around the world together to protect and restore nature, founded by Leonardo DiCaprio and a team of renowned scientists, The organization is dedicated to rewilding the planet, because restoring wildlife and ecosystems is our first line of defense against emerging diseases and climate chaos, and ensures access to clean air, water, and an abundance of food and medicines.
This program will support 50 Corpsmembers throughout the state in taking their next steps toward conservation or climate-related higher education & career opportunities. The funds cover corpsmember training, preparation, one-on-one career guidance, as well as administrative costs.