CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, DOMINGUEZ HILLS
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SYMPOSIUM MONDAY MARCH 19, 2018 LOKER STUDENT UNION BALLROOM
Program
11:00
Welcoming Remarks
11:15
Introduction of student presentations
11:30
Keynote Address
Ellie Perry Sustainability Coordinator, California State University Dominguez Hills
12:00 Center for Service Learning, Internships & Civic Engagement Community Engagement Awards Community Hero Award Rod Hay Board of Directors, American Indian Changing Spirits Chief of Staff California State University, Dominguez Hills Environmental Leadership Award John Thomlinson Chair/Professor of Biology California State University, Dominguez Hills Outstanding Community Partner Path Ventures Engaged Department Award 2018 Department of Human Services, CSU Dominguez Hills Faculty, Staff, and Students Faculty Fellows in Service Learning Award Paul Fornelli Professor, Communications Angela Macias Professor, Liberal Studies Jessica Federman Professor, Management Joan Budesa Professor, Sociology
2
Program (continued)
12:30
Lunch/Special Presentation of Azteca Dancers
1:00
Presentation of Student Community Engagement Projects
2:00
Closing Remarks
3
Presenters and Awardees
Ellie Perry, Office of Sustainability Keynote Speaker Ellie Perry graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a B.S. in Environmental Systems and obtained a master’s in Environmental Management from the Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke University. In addition to being a LEED Accredited Professional, she has a professional Certificate in Recycling and Waste Management from UCLA Extension, a Green Gardener Certificate through the County of Santa Barbara, and is an EPA WaterSense Watershed Wise Landscape Professional (WWLP).
Prior to joining CSU Dominguez Hills as its first-ever Sustainability Coordinator, she co-founded Sundowner Sustainability Consulting, a sustainability consulting firm that special izes in sustainability engagement and outreach, technical assistance in supporting a variety of commercial and nonprofit green certifications, and comprehensive sustainability planning.
Rod Hay Ph.D, Chief of Staff, Office of the President Community Hero 2018 When Dr. Hay is not busy filling in for just about every administrative position on campus, he is busy supporting our Native Students as American Indian Institute Director while simultaneously serving on the Executive Boards of American Indian Changing Spirits Residential Recovery Center in Long Beach. Rod has been tireless in his advocacy for our American Indian people and because of his wise council and intelligent compassion, he has earned the mane Dr. White Cloud from Tongva Pipe Carrier Jimi Castillo.
John Thomlinson Ph.D., Chair/Professor of Biology Environmental Leadership Award 2018 Students constantly tell us that Professor Thomlinson is awesome and how his influence greatly effects their outlook as developing scientists. John freely gives his time and energy working with students on campus and out into the community. John is working alongside his students in the field at Gardena Willows restoring native habitat or performing bird surveys at the Los Angeles River. Service Learning is deeply ingrained in the Biology Department because of his tireless efforts benefiting the students, the campus, and the community. The community is well aware of his service as he has been on the Board of Directors for the Friends of Gardena Willows Wetland Preserve since 2008, the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy Science Advisory Board, and Southwest Los Angeles College Advisory Board, and he has been a reviewer on numerous science journals. John has left his mark on many areas of the university and the community beyond, whether it is our students giving many hours of service working to help make our campus the jewel of the CSU System in sustainability, or giving much of his personal time encouraging students to apply for graduate studies. His efforts help to ensure the next generation will understand the importance of using their education to care for the planet.
4
Presenters and Awardees (continued)
Department of Human Services Engaged Department 2018 The Human Services major at CSUDH is a single subject major (no minor required) that prepares students who earn the B.A. degree for employment in a variety of professional service careers. This major is interdisciplinary and combines courses from Human Services, Child Development, Health Sciences, Leisure Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology and other areas. It is similar to a degree in social work, and it is a great major for people who want meaningful jobs helping others and serving their communities.
Path Ventures Outstanding Community Partner 2018 PATH Ventures is the arm of PATH that builds homes for clients. PATH Ventures is helping end homelessness by building affordable rental homes that provide homeless and low-income individuals and families with the support they need to succeed. We are working to have 1,000 apartments built, under construction, and/or funded by the end of 2015.
Paul Fornelli Ed. D., Professor, Communications Service Learning Faculty Fellow 2018 Dr. Paul Fornelli is an award-winning video producer who has enjoyed a wide ranging career, in an array of fields including recording arts, journalism, film & television production, public relations and, now, in higher education. Beginning with a career in the music industry, promoting then up-and-coming bands like MĂśtley CrĂźe and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Dr. Fornelli transitioned into the film and TV industry, including stints as a writer, producer and executive for companies such as Cox Communications, the Cannon Film Group, Time-Warner Communications, and Cineplex Odeon Corporation. He continues to operate his own media consulting company, Blatant Image Group. For the last decade, Dr. Fornelli has focused on academic pursuits, with an emphasis on the study of social media trends and the rise of viral media production and distribution. His doctorate work involved the study of social media use by nonprofit organizations, looking at how these groups are using social media platforms to raise awareness for their causes. Dr. Fornelli has served as an Academic Director, full time faculty member or lecturer at many Southern California-area campuses, including California State University Dominguez Hills, Marymount California University, Brooks Institute, Alta Colleges, Argosy University and LMU. He is also a member of the University Film & Video Association and was a featured speaker at their 2017 national conference.
5
Presenters and Awardees (continued)
Angela Macias Ed. D., Associate Professor, Liberal Studies Service Learning Faculty Fellow 2018 Dr. Macias has been an educator for 14 years. She began as a reading intervention and English Language Development (ELD) teacher at the middle school level and later added college to her experience. She currently teaches in the Liberal Studies department and is an advisor to the Future Educators at CSUDH. Dr. Macias has co-authored a book and published several articles in the field of education. Her areas of expertise are funds of knowledge, writing, student engagement, and community partnerships.
Jessica Federman, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Management
Service Learning Faculty Fellow 2018
Dr. Federman, assistant professor of management at CSUDH has worked in the field of human resources in areas of recruitment, selection, compensation and benefits, and training and development. Dr. Federman consults and conducts research with companies that seek to maximize their employees’ effectiveness and holds an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Masters degree in Business Administration from Binghamton University, and a Masters degree and Ph.D. in Human Resource Studies from Cornell University.
Joan Budesa, Ph.D., Sociology Department Service Learning Faculty Fellow 2018 Joan M. Budesa is a lecturer in the Department of Sociology. She has an MA in Sociology from CSU Dominguez Hills, and holds a PhD in Sociology from UC Santa Barbara with an emphasis in feminist studies. Her research and teaching focus on issues of gender, sexuality, culture, social movements, media and technology. Dr. Budesa’s first book project investigates the mobilization of Pride Parades within Eastern Europe, examining the polarizing effects of these marches on local LGBT communities, and their uneven success in advancing gender and sexual diversity within post-socialist societies. She is also currently involved in an ethnographic study that explores gendered interactions among Compton middle school students participating in a community-based technology leadership program. Dr. Budesa is especially happy to be teaching at her alma mater, encouraging her students to exercise their sociological imagination and become life-long learners in the process. In addition to espousing the promise of sociology, she enjoys cooking, hiking, downtown LA, and working on The Kathleen Cleaver Farm.
6
The Community Engagement Symposium would not be possible without the dedication of our campus community to serve the needs of our local and global communities. We would also like to thank Dr. Salhi, Damesha Mcknight, Accounts Payable, PCLASS, Office of Sustianability, and Community Partners for their continued support and valuable contributions.
7
Abstracts
1. CSUDH JusticeCorps Program Presenter(s): Cathleen Torres Vasquez and Tatiana Owens JusticeCorps is Americorps program that has been serving the communities surrounding California State University Dominguez Hills since 2004. Dominguez Hills JusticeCorps is proud to be one of 255 vital national programs operating in California. Collectively, the program’s regions serve more than 50% of California’s residents. JusticeCorps members have helped over one million Californians find access to justice over the past 14 years while giving students a head start on their paths to a career in law or social services. 2. CSUDH Legal Fair Presenter(s): Kevin Andoaga and Cathleen Torres Vasquez Mentor(s): Salvatore Russo The CSUDH Legal Fair is an event which we use to demystify Law School for our students. The goal is to introduce all the resources and support that we have to offer at Dominguez to insure they are confident with there route to Law School. 3. F.L.O.W For the Love of Writing Presenter(s): Molimau Fatu The impact of poetry in the community. 4. Hearts for Sight Foundation Wellness Program Presenter(s): Joseph Burton and Racquel Decipeda We are a start up not for profit with the mission to bring adaptive fitness, adaptive cooking lessons and occupational services for the blind and visually impaired and diabetic community. 5. Ending HIV Presenter(s): Nestor Rogel My project will highlight how modern medicine and approaches can create an end to HIV.
8
6. Lady Roses: Youth Girls in the Community Presenter(s): Brooke McDuffie Working with youth girls to beautify their community and develop an interest in Enviromental Sciences by doing outside projects, for example community clean ups, gardening, whale watching and recycling. 7. Poetry FLOWs Through Watts Presenter(s): Molimau Fatu The impact of poetry and creative writing through the Watts Rebellion. 8. Jumpstart: Creating Meaningful Connections Through Family Engagement Presenter(s): Erin Quigley, Melissa Diaz-Uribe, Sonasha Mall, Ignacia Barajas, Jenny Ceballos, Areli Lopez and Denise Gomez Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez and Miami Gelvezon The purpose of this project is to integrate family involvement throughout the Jumpstart service year. Our Jumpstart team organized multiple family involvement events to highlight the important role family plays in chidlren’s academic success. 9. AAUW: Empowering Women Since 1881 Presenter(s): Stephanie Tran The American Association of University Women (AAUW) in the South Bay works to empower women and inspire young girls. The South Bay branches of AAUW sponsors middle school girls to attend an all-girl STEM camp called Tech Trek, in which girls spend a week at a university and gain hands-on experience on STEM subject as well as other educational, fun activities. Tech Trek alumnae of the South Bay got together to create an alumnae sub organization called Tech Trek Alumnae Group (TTAG). TTAG girls collaborate to bring more information about higher education, STEM, careers, social issues, and more to young girls. Since 1881 when AAUW first began, members have been fighting for equality for all and investing in the betterment of our future. 10. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Presenter(s): Yeidy Castellon VITA provides free tax preparation to low-income individuals in the community. 11.Animo College Leadership Academy YPAR Presenter(s): Navia Itzia Youth Participatory Action Research (Student Projects)
9
12. CSUDH Stay WOKE Presenter(s): Dyniele Jones Last semester, Lieutenant David Hall shared with my MKT-350 class a challenge confronting the campus: the use of digital devices, including phones and stero-earphones, while perambulating. CSUDH has commissioned MKT-350 students to present viable marketing/communications/events solutions to the digital device addiction/usage safety challenge at CSUDH. Stay WOKE is a acronym. It teaches students to value their safety more than their mobile device. Visual Presentation : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXQx4F8TMS8&list=FLkw_vuCJdo674s6oom74xRw 13. CSUDH’s Organización Latina Estudiantil Presenter(s): Viviana Martinez Reynaga, Kenneth Calero, and Yamel Valdivia Mentor(s): Juan Tavarez Organización Latina Estudiantil is an organization that strives to promote Latin American culture on campus while giving back to our communities. Our organization is passionate about helping others. We do so not only through donations, but also by giving our time and attention to issues within our communities. 14. Don’t Text and Drive Presenter(s): Diamond Smith Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez and Miami Gelvezon This presentation is a 25 second animation that attempts to bring awareness to texting and driving. 15. Reducing Infant Mortality: An Exploration of Parental Preparedness as a Response to the Environment Presenter(s): Hilary Valenova Dayag Mentor(s): Dr. Fynnwin Prager The United States has seen a constant decrease in the teen pregnancy rate across all states but still continues having one of the highest rates amongst all Western industrialized nations (CDC, 2017b ; Hamilton, Martin, Ventura, 2011). Examining this issue, both infant mortality and teen pregnancy is highly associated with the environment. This expands into issues relating to sociocultural environment, perception of sexual and reproductive maturity, and lack of reproductive health education programs. In an attempt to examine the preparedness of teen parents in caring for their children, I examine infant mortality rates as an indicator of a parent’s ability to provide basic prenatal and postnatal healthcare. Additionally, infant mortality was examined in relation to teen pregnancy, if the parents live in the US South and if they are living below the poverty line. There is a strong relationship between infant mortality, teen pregnancy, living in the South, and if a family is living below the poverty line. To improve teen preparedness for parenting in regions of high economic and social disparity, policy must be made to increase public accessibility to reproductive healthcare programs and education to limit the infant mortality rate.
10
16. CSUDH Day of Service: Recycled Water and Plant Health Presenter(s): Sydney Martinez Mentor(s): Dr. Brynne L. Bryan I am a student on campus who has been working on an independent research project. This project aims to look at the effects of recycled water on plant health on our campus. I have been working on this project since January and will continue the experiment until May. Using recycled water allows us to contribute towards a more sustainable university, however, this can have varying effects on the landscape. Recycled water can often have higher levels of salts, leaving more vulnerable plants to become damaged. My study will be comparing the salinity and moisture levels on our campus with those in the housing complex which uses potable water on the landscape plants. The goal of my study is to use the information I collect to further contribute to having a more sustainable campus. Depending on the future results it might be necessary to select plants for the landscape that can tolerate higher levels of salinity in recycled water. I hope to engage others to create a discussion about how to continue to use recycled water while still maintaining a beautiful campus filled with a diverse range of plant life. 17. Peace Dialogue Project Presenter(s): Scott Martin Mentor(s): Dr. Nancy Erbe We are actively training, through a partnership with Mediators Beyond Borders International, members of Rotary International, an international service organization, in community dialogue facilitation to build resiliency to violence and bridge the cultural/political divide. The first step is to increase skills to have difficult conversations or “Peace Conversations” within their own localized clubs. After gaining experience in facilitating conversations, participants will receive advanced training on how to convene and facilitate “Peace Dialogues” within their larger communities. We are building a model that can be used to train all of 37,000 member clubs in cities around the world. 18. Leadership and Creative Expression: Second Annual Group Relations Conference Presenter(s): Ivett Gabriella Mentor(s): Tara Victor - Psychology “The Leadership and Creative Expression Conference is a three-day group relations conference open to CSUDH students and the public and will take place at the Loker Student Union on March 16, 17 and 18, 2018. Group relations methodology is the study of complex social systems, and it emerged to better understand how societies and organizations function and how to best solve social problems. It’s designed to foster leadership development while working creatively and adaptively in complex social systems, but it doesn’t use a traditional format – lectures, formal didactics, etc. Instead, it’s an experiential learning method where students explore boundaries, authority, role and task in the context of small, large and self-organizing groups in the “here and now” of experience across a three-day weekend event. Ultimately, this allows conference participants to see how large systems work and most importantly teaches competencies and skills in how to organize collectively toward whatever goal(s) are set. This conference provides students with a community context to their education, allowing them to connect their academic coursework to their leadership roles on and off campus and as citizens in a democracy (life-long learning). It serves as a way to integrate meaningful community-engaged service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility and strengthen our on and off campus community. Members of this three-day experiential group relations conference have opportunities for developing their leadership skills, improving strategic thinking, increasing effectiveness in groups, recognizing the impact of differences on group collaboration, and applying these insights to the ways their manage their work and other real world roles. This conference was offered as a service-learning component of PSY571 Practicum in Clinical Community Psychology this Spring semester.
11
19. California Campus Compact Community Engagement Student Fellowship (CESF) Presenter(s): Janette Ramirez and Alejandra Morales Mentor(s): Cheryl Mcknight, Miami Gelvezon Gatpandan Native Americans have the greatest health disparities and receive the least amount of help from government health services. The mortality rate for Natives suffering from diabetes mellitus is three times the national average for all ethnicities. One of the most effective ways to combat diabetes is induce lifestyle changes. We researched and consolidated information on diabetes and healthy life styles including diet and exercise. We conducted culturally relevant workshops and disseminated written materials to agencies serving Native Americans as well as online resources targeting the Native population. 20. Making Reading Fun Presenter(s): Jessica Diaz, Gloria Juarez, Perla Romo, Angelica Hernandez, Evelyn Rodriguez, Valeria Villafana, Natalie Gomez Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez By the age of 3, children born into low-income families hear roughly 30 million fewer words than their affluent peers. Jumpstart fills this gap with the element of reading, encouraging students to learn new words. We read a different book every week, while making props of the vocabulary words to increase student’s comprehension with visual representations of the words. By helping the children build the key language and literacy skills, we are preparing them to succeed in the world. 21.Horn UP, Phones Down Presenter(s): Heriberto Arzola, Nolvia Martinez, Evelyn Camaraza, Alex Rincon, Nancy Chavez, and Garekin Nalbandian Mentor(s): Dr. Kirti Sawhney Celly We hope we can make fellow students, professors, and CSUDH staff more aware of the dangers associated with walking while engaged with an electronic device. We will accomplish this by hosting a safety seminar (Horns Up, Phones Down) during new student orientation and during the first week of the school year. our project will contain; a brochure, safety seminar, cellphone free zones, and promotions. 22. Jumpstart Sessions Presenter(s): Andrea Cardenas, Roberto Espinoza, Karina Narvaez, and Nhoemi Meza Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez Our group will present on the various elements that make up the Jumpstart session. These elements include Welcome, Reading, Circle Time, Center Time, and Sharing & Good Bye. We will focus on the importance of each element in helping children develop their language and literacy development. We will also instroduce the role that each corps members play and making sure we implement a fun and stimulating learning experience with the preschool children we work with. It is the mission of Jumpstart to help preschool children from low income communities enter kindergarten with the skills needed to succeed and thrive.
12
23. Jumpstart: Reading Presenter(s): Valerie Dominguez, Brianna Vergara, Karen Rodriguez, Karen Franco, and Argenis Romero Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez In Jumpstart children learn new vocabulary, book & print knowledge and enhance their reading comprehension by reading 20 themed core story books. One of Jumpstarts main focus is to make sure that our partnered children develop the essential language and literacy skills needed to succeed in kindergarten. Jumpstart implements two styles of readings during our sessions. The first day of session we implement reading for enjoyment. During reading for enjoyment children develop an interest and enjoyment of stories and develop initial understanding of selected vocabulary. Our second implementation is reading to reconstruct where children develop comprehension of the story deepen understanding of vocabulary. 24. Community Outreach-No one is left behind Presenter(s): Gloria Vargas-Martinez The Latino Student Business Association is a non-profit organization created for the purpose of improving the lives of students at California State University, Dominguez Hills. As the President of Latino Student Business Association, I have being involved in community service events. I am constantly finding ways to promote community support in general, but also with our members. I am very involved with events to help the students develop themselves. We recently had the event to Meet the Professor, this events gives the students an opportunity to meet the professor on a different setting. I also had the privilege to have taken four of my members to Dallas Texas for Professional event. The members had the opportunity to interact with professionals from all over the nation. In addition, I had volunteer with Los Angeles Latino Chamber of Commerce. Assisted ENF in Inspiring Student from Dreamers Club, High School Field Trip to Domingez Hills. Throughout the year I help by assisting the orphanagesin Tijuana Mexico. This organization is called Angels 2 Angels, throughout the year I help by collecting new items for kids, starting from clothes, shoes, sandals, baby formula, sheets, and food. The most rewarding part of these trips is when I see the children happy faces when we arrived with goodies for them. In addition, I had the experience to drop off water at the border to help those crossing the border for a better future. I also volunteered at LA on Cloud9, this event is held at McArthur Park, the fourth Sunday of the month. This is where the community come together to help the Homelessness Community and any families in need. We (LSBA) were recognized by LA Cloud 9 for our great support and contribution to the cause. On January 28, 2018, in collaboration with other organization. I planned the University Community Day, and I brought other universities to CSUDH, CSULA, CSULB, and CSUN together for this heartfelt mission, together to help the Homelessness Community and any families in need. I volunteer at the Carson Community Center with the Carson’s Homeless Count, I feel this is important to have a count since many of our brothers and sisters live on the street without any assistance. Back on October 28, 2017, Cal State Dominguez donated over 100 Subway lunch sacks for our homeless friends. These sandwiches were distributed on the south bay area. Lastly, I spoke to the children from the Nuevo Amanecer Latino Children’s Services (NALCS) we had the opportunity to speak to the kids about our personal experiences and inspired the students to reach for the stars Other additional Volunteer dates: August 31, 2017, Brought together over 30 organizations and Clubs while tabling. September 23, 2017: LSBA CSUDH and LBA CSUN Beach Cleanup October 21, 2017, Compton Initiative -help beautify the city October 15, 2017, Aids Walk 2017. November 23, 2017, I volunteer at the Gooble Gooble Give DTLA. This is a yearly event that we also help with preparing meals and gathering clothes for our homeless community. This event we served around 600 individual. Throughout the year I help to bring resources to A Needy Wilmington, as well as LAonCloud9 and Angels 2 Angels orphanage.
13
25. Community Engagement: Organizing and Participating in the CSUDH Pow Wow Anthropology 330, North American Indians, Spring 2018 Presenter(s): Samuel Carreon Christopher Casillas, Tatiana Cruz, Capri Downs, Dolores Duran, Ashley Favela, Matthew Fusco, Katherine Gendron, Biviam Jimenez, Daniel Lopez, Arlene Morales, Samantha Sanchez, Lilibeth Tome, Maria Troncoso Oliver, Miguel Urena, Stephanie Viera, Eric Zamora, Janine Gasco Mentor(s): Janine Gasco Our poster will discuss the activities associated with organizing the CSUDH Pow Wow as part of our service learning class, ANT 330, North American Indians. Five teams focus on different aspects of the Pow Wow. The Children’s Booth team provides a space where children are able to enjoy themselves through engaging activities. Activities include arts and crafts and educational activities related to Native American cultures. The Raffle team is in charge of collecting donations from businesses all around California which will be raffled during the Pow Wow. The Public Relations and Outreach team brings awareness of the Pow Wow to people on and off-campus. We use a variety of social media to reach out to as many people as possible to get a high attendance. The Volunteer team oversees the organization of student volunteers for the Pow Wow. We download data from the website where students sign up and we organize the volunteer tasks on the days of the Pow Wow. The Fry Bread team purchases food for the Fry Bread booth and organizes the preparation and serving of the food sold at the Fry Bread Booth 26. A Session at a Glance, The World of Color Presenter(s): Carmen Gutierrez, Mikala Channel, Diamonzshay Williams, Brenda Bautista, Elizabeth Juarez Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez Jumpstart’s mission is to provide language, literacy, and social-emotional programming for preschool children from under-resourced communities and promote quality early learning for all children. All of Jumpstart’s sessions are focused on 6 different learning units concentrated on themes to help children develop their skills. The Jumpstart session is broken down into various elements that are rich with interactive activities that support the development phonological awareness, book and print knowledge, and oral language skills. Elements consist of the following; welcome time, reading, circle time, center time/let’s find out about it, and sharing and goodbye. Today, we will be introducing session 11 that is part of unit 4- The world of color. As a team we strive to close the learning gap and help children grow their love for learning. 27.Mentoring CSUDH Jumpstart Team Leaders Presenter(s):Arlene Morales Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez and Miami Gelvezon Gatpandan The purpose of this service project is to help mentor Team Leaders in Jumpstart through various workshops. I help facilitate and coordinate workshops to train and support Team Leaders in topics including stress management, disability awareness, ESL, family involvement, classroom management, and effective leadership. 28. Roosevelt Elementary Blended Learning Goal Presenter(s): Liset Ruiz, Berenice Tellez, and Vanessa Saldana Mentor(s): Dr. Macias In our School Site Goals Research project, we have linked with Roosevelt Elementary to gather applicable effective methodologies for blended learning. Principal Horowitz, our mentor, has stressed to us the high need the school currently has for practical blended learning pedagogy. Much like they already do with ELA, however, the focus is now requiring more implementation of technology while simultaneously working with small group lessons. We plan on completing a presentation as a product of this research. We hope this project will help Roosevelt Elementary School with their current school site goal to be in compliance with the district.
14
29. Jumpstart: Celebrating Reading Time Presenter(s): Victoria Sell, Guadalupe Contreras, Lisette Pena, Jailene Reyes, Mayra Bravo, and Beatriz Paredes Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez In Jumpstart we focus on several components that are dedicated to closing the kindergarten readiness gap but of all areas reading has proved to be most enjoyable for the corps members and students alike. Every week the children look forward to a new storybook and the chance to go on a new adventure through rich vocabulary, unfamiliar settings, and new characters. They are able to relate these books to their homes, families, and friends. Seeing the children we work with make these wonderful connections is what makes our service so worthwhile. We would love to share some memories and insight of our reading times thus far. 30. CSUDH Day of Service: AADAP Project Choice - Students for Substance Abuse Prevention Presenter(s): Brianna Haywood, Christina Long, Kim Tran, Pamela Weller, Spechall Hughes Project Choice believes that “Education into Action” is an effective approach to apply skills and knowledge obtained through the Core Training Program to reach the larger student body at CSUDH. Project Choice’s Core Training develops participants into Peer Health Advocates (PHAs), who are able to promote positive and healthy behaviors and decision making to their peer groups. Project Choice experience aims to enhance academic retention and reduce consequences associated with alcohol and other drug misuse/abuse. PHA’s can apply their area of education to various components of the Project Choice program. Advocacy to peer groups as well as surrounding communities can take place through peer-to-peer learning & skills building, community health outreach, communication/media campaigns, events and special projects, planning, and campus/community policy efforts. 31.Jumpstart: Promoting Health and Wellness during Child Centered Time Presenter(s):Andrea Flores, Christianna Lynch, Paola Gonzalez, Vanessa Saldana, and Cynthia Saldana Mentor(s): Jessica Ramirez Jumpstart is an organization trying to promote high quality education for all children. An important element in our Jumpstart session is Child Centered Time (CCT) where we engage with children to enhance positive adult-child relationships to build key language and literacy skills. Besides teaching inside the classroom team Wonder Women takes the opportunity to promote health and wellness outdoors. Our team implements various exercise routines where all children and Jumpstart teachers participate. As we continue to advocate early language and literacy development, we also strive to encourage physical education in the early preschool years during CCT. Team Wonder Women enjoy witnessing our partnered children take pride in their education and physical well-being. 32. Curriculum into Action: Using Video to Forge Student-Nonprofit Partnerships Presenter(s): Paul Fornelli Mentor(s): Paul Fornelli This semester Spring 2018, the Communications department class, Com 110: Intro to Digital Media Production, is teaming with various on-campus organizations, including SLICE, The Office of Sustainability and the Office of Ceremonies and Events to produce Public Service Announcements, press releases and other advertising campaign materials to help these organizations promote their various mission statements and objectives. Four students will also be present to represent their groups: Evelyn Baez-Gonzales, Victor Garza, Amber Jenkins, Joshua Zuniga.
15
33. LSBA Community Service Presenter(s): Ricardo Muniz, Jessica Alvarez, Gloria Vargas Martinez, Jessica Barbosa LSBA have been heavily involved in reaching out to several departments on and off campus to volunteer and cohost community service events. Volunteering for community service is something LSBA holds very dearly to its roots and overall representation. “Latino Student Business Association California State University, Dominguez Hills The Latino Student Business Association (LSBA) is a non-profit organization created for the purpose of improving the lives of students at California State University, Dominguez Hills. It will provide opportunities that will enable members to grow professionally, personally, and academically, through education, leadership, and organizational support. The Latino Student Business Association intends to support its purpose by providing professional workshops, networking opportunities designed to enhance business skills, foster self-improvement and promote involvement in the community, as individuals and as an organization. Since its establishment in 1998, LSBA has maintained being active within the fields of networking, professionalism, and especially community service. It is always rewarding to know that LSBA, for 18 consecutive years, has kept active within multiple communities-whether it has been reading to kids, volunteering at the Compton Initiative & LA Regional Food Bank, aiding in rebuilding homes/schools, and many others. It also gives great satisfaction to know that LSBA made a difference. LSBA, alongside fellow LSBA alumni are participate for a non-profit organization known as LA on Cloud 9. LA on Cloud 9 is “dedicated to the less fortunate community & their animals. They provide them with basic essentials and resources such as hygiene items, food, clothing, blankets, shoes, & more� through the help of donations from the public to serve the less fortunate community of the Los Angeles area. LSBA continues to support LA on Cloud 9, not just through our alumni being on the board of directors, but by members donating products for the greater good. Given by the California Legislature Assembly, LSBA was awarded a certificate of recognition for the continuous support and volunteering for LA on Cloud 9. Members from LSBA have been heavily involved in reaching out to several departments on and off campus to volunteer and co-host community service events. Volunteering for community service is something LSBA holds very dearly to its roots and overall representation. The following are just a few out of many community service events LSBA took part in since summer 2017 up until now, and will continue to do so: One Peace At A Time beach cleanup Compton Initiative City of Carson Community Center Career Expo Border Angels Gobble Gobble Give LA on Cloud9 Los Angeles Latino Chamber of Commerce Marquez High School The best gift a person can donate is their time. For that reason, members and alumni from the Latino Student Business Association at California State University, Dominguez Hills will continue to volunteer at community services events years to come.
16
34. Boys & Girls Clubs of Carson Presenter(s): Rosita Shouse The Boys & Girls Clubs of Carson is a nonprofit organization based out of Carson, CA. Our Mission is to offer our priority outcomes to youth in the community so that we can positively influence their Academic Success, Good Character & Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles. 35. Assemblymember Mike Gipson Presenter(s): Kyle Lee The 64th Assembly District Office Internship Program offers high school, college students and others a unique opportunity to participate in and experience the work of a California Assembly office. The program exposes those interested to district office operations and the grass roots activities of a legislator’s work. These experiences include working with constituents, conducting community outreach efforts, assisting community-based organizations, organizing civic events and projects, database development and upkeep, staffing the office, and other activities. 36.Career Center overview Presenter(s):Brenda Mendez, Punita Patel, and Geraldine Alcantar We would show off our NACE comptencies, Handshake, and Annual Report Data 37. Benefits of Small Group Instruction Presenter(s): Alicia Mireles, Andrea Flores, Cynthia Alejandra Lopez, and Lucas Kim Mentor(s): Dr. Macias Working in small group settings is beneficial for both the students and the teacher. As a teacher, you can focus on their strengths and weaknesses to help your students one at a time without being overwhelmed by a huge group and overlooking details you could have missed. 38. CSUDH Urban Farm and Living Lab Presenter(s): Alicia Salmeron Mentor(s): Ellie Perry The Farm project’s primary goals are creating a system and protocol for turning university facilities’ green waste into compost. As well as transforming an abandoned greenhouse area into a living lab.Where we can teach local kindergarten to college students about sustainable crops and plants in our changing environment and growing water consciousness. By taking on this project we are able to help reduce waste, and improve soil quality at CSUDH as well as helping our fellow students become more involved with their campus. Professors are utilizing the farm to expand their curriculum and bring education to their students finger tips. Our spring crops will be in soon, and this will allow us to provide healthy fresh produce for our campus dinning and the students. The Farm is a place that everyone can enjoy and learn from. It may be a small step, but it is in the right direction, and we will continue to help grow awareness and reduce our waste.
17
39.Green Apple Day of Service Presenter(s): CSUDH Campus Community Mentor(s): Dr. Vadheim, Dr. Bryan, Prof. Dawdy CUSDH held its first ever Green Apple Day of Service, to promote awareness of the importance of developing a more sustainable campus. In a partnership between SLICE, Office of Sustainability, and Professor of Biology, Dr. Connie Vadheim, student volunteers had a special opportunity to learn and gain hands on experience on how to properly care for native plants. Prior to the service day, Dr. Vadheim held an interactive workshop that educated and trained students on the different native plants on campus and the appropriate pruning technique needed for specific plant groups and the best time of the year for pruning. On October 19, 2017, over 40 volunteers worked together to prune and care for three native plants gardens on campus. With the leadership and supervision of expert faculty, Dr. Vadehim, Dr. Bryan, and Professor Dawdy, Heritage Creek, Dreams, and the West Basin Garden received a much needed TLC. With garden gloves, pruners, shears, trowels, rakes, trimmers, and loppers at hand, volunteers got down and dirty to care for their campus. Volunteers gave more than 165 hours of service during the two day event. 40. Bring the Bees Back: Reintroducing Native Stingless Bees in Yucatan Presenter(s): Bobbie Benavidez and Ernesto Morales In 2017 residents of Ek’Balam--a small Maya village in Yucatan, Mexico--participated in a series of workshops to re-learn the traditional practice of beekeeping with native, stingless bees. Beekeeping in Yucatan has undergone massive transformations in the last 100 years. Native stingless bees (Melipona beecheii) were domesticated in log hives from the time of the ancient Maya through the mid-1900s. Around 1930, the Western or European Honeybee (Apis mellifera) was introduced in Yucatan, which meant a fundamental change in bee husbandry. By 1990, the Africanized honeybee (Apis mellifera scutelatta) had arrived on the peninsula. Their aggressive behavior devastated the population of Melipona beecheii and beekeepers reported losing an average of 22 colonies each year. By 2005, there were merely 500 beekeepers involved in meliponiculture in the region. This decline precipitated rescue efforts by conservationists, scholars, and local communities. Over the last ten years, organizations have worked to initiate new meliponiculture projects in indigenous communities around the Yucatan Peninsula region. From a conservation standpoint, M. beecheii are excellent at generating positive outcomes. These bees have a more specific diet and rely on specific flowering trees that are native to the forests of Yucatan. These same tree species are harvested for their valuable tropical hardwood. While conservation outcomes are the primary driving forces behind this effort, there have been numerous sociocultural changes that are in need of exploration. This community engagement project focuses on understanding the ways that reintroduced meliponiculture is influencing household economics and biodiversity conservation outcomes by reintroducing Melipona in the small Maya village of Ek’Balam, Yucatan.
18
19