Welcome to Wildlife has successfully fostered a sense of ownership and stewardship over the course of the last year. Children partake in monthly park beautification actions in which the group is broken up into groups. These groups rotate through gardening activities, trash clean up, and invasive plant pulling.

Invasive vs native plants is a topic that we dive deep into. Children are encouraged to use the BEETLES observation strategies which include three thought provoking questions. “I notice, I wonder, and It reminds me of” Through these questions we explore the impact that invasive plants have on the environment. For example we pulled up a native sedge plant that was growing along the creek to study the roots. We then pulled up an invasive Acacia plant and studied its roots. We found that the sedges' fibrous roots effectively helped prevent erosion of creeks as well as being resistant to fire given how deep the roots grow. Acacia roots were also long however they stayed near the top of the soil and often took over the roots of its neighboring plants.

We also used the idea of invasive vs native as a starting point for our conversations around colonization, gentrification, and inequality. Through the exploration of these topics as it relates to humans, children were able to understand the ways in which colonization impacted the lives and history of existing native communities. Once a general understanding was reached, children took it a step further by having conversations on ways that we could help repair the harm gentrification and colonization has caused in the same way that we work to manage the harm caused by invasive plants. By using the concept of invasive vs. native plants as a metaphor for colonization, gentrification, and inequality, the activity provided a unique and engaging way to teach students about the complex historical and social issues that have shaped California's history and culture. Additionally, the activity also relates to environmental education by providing a way for students to understand the impact of human activity on the environment. By exploring the consequences of invasive plants on native ecosystems, students gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving and protecting native species and habitats. This connection between social and environmental issues underscores the interdisciplinary nature of sustainability and the importance of considering the complex interplay between human activity and the natural world. Overall, this activity effectively achieved the goal of increasing students' understanding of both California history and social science standards, as well as environmental education.

Camp ACE has demonstrated significant progress in achieving the goals outlined by the California Department of Park & Recreation. Through engaging hands-on activities that integrate physical exercise with environmental education, the program has succeeded in fostering healthy habits, encouraging active civic participation, and nurturing environmental consciousness among campers aged 7 to 14 and youth interns aged 15 to 18. By offering nutrition and gardening lessons alongside a diverse range of clubs and activities, Camp ACE has provided young individuals with a comprehensive experience that emphasizes the importance of mindful eating and physical wellness. Furthermore, its partnerships with external organizations such as JingaFit, the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District, and BoomShake have expanded the camp's network and exposed participants to valuable insights from environmental professionals.

Camp ACE has been actively involved in the community, hosting 1401 days of activities and 353 days of nature area trips. It is evident that this program plays a crucial role in the community by providing residents and their children with access to free day camp programming, which is often unaffordable for many low-income families. This outreach addresses a significant need in the community, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to participate in enriching and educational activities.

Additionally, Camp ACE contributes to the local workforce by creating 30 positions and jobs for high school students and young adults. This not only provides valuable employment opportunities but also aligns with our workforce development goals by offering meaningful work experiences for young individuals. Overall, the program's impact extends beyond its immediate participants, positively influencing both the community and its future workforce. In summary, Camp ACE has had a profound impact on the children and youth involved, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to lead healthy, active, and environmentally conscious lives. The program's innovative approach and dedication to community collaboration have laid a solid foundation for future growth and success.

The Water Keepers program has successfully achieved several educational goals through nature areas and activities in the community. For example, participants had the opportunity to explore and research the sulfur seeping into Crusher Creek from the Leona Sulfur Mines, a hidden site located in Oakland hills. This activity helped them understand the impact of human activities like mining on local ecosystems and habitats, achieving Goal 2 of fostering a sense of environmental stewardship. Additionally, they learned about water quality, its susceptibility to pollution, and the significance of taking responsibility for preserving natural resources. The activity also highlighted the role of government and regulatory bodies in monitoring and addressing environmental concerns, and the potential for scientific research and technological innovation to contribute to solutions. In achieving other goals set by the California Department of Park & Recreation, the program provided opportunities for education in S.T.E.A.M., civic engagement, and community outreach. Participants were encouraged to reflect on the importance of community engagement and participation in addressing environmental challenges and consider ways to make a positive impact.

Other activities that helped achieve several education goals were lesson plans where participants explored invasive species of plants and trees, such as Water Crest, Water Lily, and Acacia. Learning about the animals living around or at the Lafayette Reservoir, what they eat, how they fit into the web of life, and what we can do to preserve their habitats better. They also learned about the fence lizard, coots on the lake, deer in the pear orchard, and the elusive bullfrogs!

As part of the Youth Justice Leadership curriculum, students had the opportunity to engage in medicinal plant foraging and medicine-making activities. Through these experiences, they developed a deeper connection with the natural world and gained a sense of guardianship and stewardship for the environment. One of the most popular activities is the plantain balm making process. Before the students can start making the balm, they first learn about the medicinal properties of plantain and how to safely and ethically forage it. This initial step is essential in ensuring that the students gain a deeper understanding of the plant and its uses, while also developing a sense of responsibility and respect for the natural world. The focus on ethical and sustainable foraging practices provided students with practical skills and knowledge, while the multicultural learning and sharing of traditional medicinal practices fostered a sense of community and connection. By integrating history and culture into the science education curriculum, the activity provided a holistic and meaningful learning experience for BIPOC communities, promoting a sense of identity and cultural pride.

One particularly memorable moment during the activity occurred when two students, one from El Salvador and one from Korea, realized that their families shared a similar tradition of using lemon tree leaves in hot baths as a remedy for the flu. This moment of cross-cultural connection was a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring and sharing traditional knowledge, and it fostered a sense of unity among the students. Overall, the activity was a meaningful and impactful experience that achieved its goals of promoting environmental stewardship, cross-cultural understanding, and holistic learning. This activity was a powerful tool for achieving a range of educational goals, including environmental stewardship, scientific learning, cross-cultural understanding, and holistic learning. Through this experience, students gained practical skills and knowledge, developed a deeper connection with the natural world, and fostered a sense of community and connection. By honoring and sharing traditional knowledge, the activity also promoted cultural pride and a sense of identity among BIPOC communities. Overall, this activity was a meaningful and effective way to provide a well-rounded and engaging learning experience for students, while also promoting important values and principles.

Through crafting and seed planting, families discovered Monarch butterflies’ lifecycle and migration pattern. Instruction connected to visiting Natural Bridges; residents saw Monarch overwintering in-person and were inspired by the park’s native plant garden. The San Jose Park Rangers taught residents about recycling; how it works, what can be recycled and how to sort it. Throughout the program trash was creatively reused, fostering stewardship through curriculum pursuant to Statewide Environmental Education standards. Residents discovered nature in action through a tidepool scavenger hunt: finding sea sponges, sea anemone, and more. The SCVAS presented a program on Bay Area birds, aligned with the content standards for California public schools. Participants learned how birds interact with local ecosystems while examining feathers and taxidermy birds. On nature hikes residents were taught plant identification skills, learning to avoid poison and recognize historic and native plants.

Our environmental programs benefited from various partnerships with organizations such as California Field School, Piedmont Garden Club, Outdoor Recreational Leadership, Round World Media, and Green-Blue New Deal for Richmond. These collaborations enhanced the program's curriculum and connected it to the local community. For example, interns gained hands-on experience in outdoor recreation through the partnership with California Field School bike training and biking to natural area sites throughout East Oakland. At the same time, innovative educational approaches were introduced through collaborations with Round World Media and the Green-Blue New Deal for Richmond. Valerie Landau, from Round World Media, suggested incorporating storytelling, oral histories, and interactive tools, such as nature journals with blank pages, to engage students in the learning process. This approach allows students to record their observations and reflections in a way that encourages personal ownership of their learning experience without the distraction of pre-printed materials. The Piedmont Garden Club partnership facilitated practical experience in environmental stewardship. Outdoor Recreational Leadership (ORL) was crucial in supporting our programs by providing training and logistical support. Their expertise in youth empowerment, team building, and community development strategies enabled our staff, volunteers, and community leaders to increase their resources and enhance their effectiveness. ORL's free transportation, camping supplies, and assistance with campsite reservations and permit payments allowed us to accommodate large groups of participants and ensure that all families had the necessary resources to participate fully in our camping activities.

Additionally, our programs also benefited from partnerships with Watershed Nursery, EBMUD Rangers, Canticle Urban Farm, and other environmental education and advocacy organizations. These partnerships enriched the curriculum and provided valuable resources and expertise, offering interns learning opportunities in sustainable horticulture, water conservation, and urban agriculture.

Partnerships with The Unity Council, Lao Family, and Jinga Fit further strengthened our environmental programs. The Unity Council's advanced Environmental Leadership program allowed Water Keepers to deepen their knowledge and skills in green jobs and environmental careers. The Jingafit activities provided Camp ACE with a unique approach to fitness, incorporating workshops and activities that fostered a deeper understanding of physical fitness and wellness.

Furthermore, partnerships with ECCCO (Exploring College, Career and Community Options), Unity Council of Fruitvale, and Lao Family Community Development facilitated comprehensive training and workforce development for intern youth leaders, empowering them with job readiness training, soft skills workshops, and resume-building sessions. The comprehensive orientation at Peralta Hacienda ensured interns were well-prepared to undertake their responsibilities effectively and underwent a 1-week trauma-informed training course.

These partnerships and training opportunities provided a holistic approach to workforce development, empowering interns to build the skills and experience necessary for success in their roles and contributing to the program's overall success.

Grant partners this year included Project Hope, San Jose Park Rangers, Yosemite Conservancy, Washington Youth Center, Guadalupe Washington Neighborhood Association, Catholic Charities, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society (SCVAS), Stanislaus National Forest, Natural Bridges State Beach, Alum Rock Park, and Youth Science Institute (YSI).Our many partners in the community and the statewide Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhood Services network have been key to providing unique opportunities for residents to explore natural areas. Our partnership with SCVAS, Park Rangers, and the YSI helped us provide engaging environmental programs and inform youth about opportunities for careers in natural. Our new partner, Yosemite Conservancy, provided tours. Their guides connected with residents and highlighted unique stories and people from the park’s history; encouraging residents to engage in nature and see themselves represented in current and historical members of the Yosemite community.

The camping trip presented several challenges, from scheduling in rainy weather to dealing with poor camping gear and muddy conditions. Some of the tents some of the families had were in poor condition, with some having holes and missing rain covers, and the rain and mud made the experience difficult for the families and participants. Thankfully, we rented extra camping gear from BAWT, but because of the mud and rain, cleaning the rental gear after the trip was also challenging, especially in the continued rainy weather. However, despite these difficulties, the families and participants were able to enjoy the experience and gained valuable lessons from the adventure. It's important to learn from this experience and take steps to improve the safety and functionality of future outdoor activities.

Despite the challenges posed by camping in the rain, participants learned valuable lessons that align with the educational goals of the program. For example, they experienced the importance of being prepared and flexible in outdoor activities, as evidenced by the need to think fast and use tarps to cover tents that were missing rain covers. They also gained practical knowledge about outdoor safety and survival, such as the importance of minimizing their impact on the environment and preserving natural resources by properly cleaning and maintaining rental gear, even in difficult weather conditions. Additionally, participants applied problem-solving and critical thinking skills to overcome challenges, such as working together as a community to set up camp in a limited amount of time, and gained an appreciation for the role of organizations like BAWT in supporting outdoor activities. Overall, the camping trip provided a rich learning experience that went beyond the challenges posed by the weather.

To inform future Outdoor Programs, here are some tips and lessons-learned based on the camping trip experience:

• Thoroughly inspect rental gear before use and have backup options available in case of damage or missing items.
• Be prepared for inclement weather and have a plan for adjusting activities or seeking shelter as needed.
• Emphasize the importance of minimizing impact on the environment and properly cleaning and maintaining gear.Plan for sufficient time for setup and preparation, and consider recruiting additional support or volunteers to assist with these tasks.
• Encourage community and teamwork among participants, and provide opportunities for problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Consider partnering with organizations like BAWT to support outdoor activities and provide access to gear and resources.
• Regularly review and evaluate outdoor activities to identify potential improvements and mitigate risks.

Online signup forms and pre-trip orientation meetings have continued to be important for access. Learning from our first year, a waitlist was successfully utilized to fill cancellations. Marketing at in-person events has been useful in encouraging signups and helping residents understand the program. Bilingual employees continue to be essential to community outreach, helping residents feel comfortable participating in trying new adventures. Early planning and communication with different stakeholders is important. Having partners with similar goals and initiatives creates wins for both groups and motivates collaboration and innovation. Providing learning activities for mixed ages at Nature Education events has been successful in engaging entire families at events. Teens have been a harder group to attract to Nature Education events. Based on community feedback, it is recommended to host active events to engage the 12-17 audience.