Our mission is to foster thriving and sustainable ecosystems in the Monterey Bay and surrounding habitats through equitable environmental action.
We focus on advocacy to promote policy change, offer youth education programs, and engage community members in beach, river, and open-space cleanups. Cleanups are educational — a first step in expanding awareness of pollution and the connection between ecosystems, wildlife, and community health. Data from the cleanups set the stage for our local and statewide policy initiatives and in 2025 alone, 3,590 volunteers have removed 11,673 pounds of trash over 138 cleanups.
Our Big Idea is to expand Coastal Classroom for K–12 students from under-resourced schools. This marine science program provides outdoor learning with field trips, classroom lessons, and immersive VR “dives” into Marine Protected Areas. Students gain knowledge, confidence, and stewardship skills while experiencing the coast, often for the first time.
Coastal Classroom bridges equity gaps in environmental education by providing 300+ students annually from schools in underserved communities into local ecosystems — with transport, supplies, and bilingual instruction.
We are dedicated to creating inclusive youth education programs that empower every young person to engage in transformative outdoor experiences. Please join us!
I loved being able to learn about the environment while I was exploring.
Middle School Student, Watsonville, 13 years old
