Impact Report 2008-2014

Page 1

IMPACT REPORT 2008–2014



1 / LETTER FROM EVAN

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

LETTER FROM EVAN My journey into sustainability began as a teen, over fifteen years ago. At a young age, I understood that the overall impact human civilization has made on our planet is a negative one. We have to change. There has to be another way. I was determined to find the solution. Thus, the journey began. The journey led me from Newport Beach to UC Santa Cruz where I learned about localism and organic farming. In receiving a degree in Agroecology I learned, first-hand, about solutions to feeding our local and global communities in ways that provided benefit to our environment. For nearly five years, I tested that exact question. Throughout Latin America and West Africa, I designed and managed large-scale organic farms, consulted with local farmers on sustainability, and taught ecological design along the way. These years allowed me to expand on ideas learned in school, by actually implementing all facets of sustainable living at large and small scales. The only way to learn is to do.

It turns out we can grow food that nourishes us while also keeping our oceans clean. But why aren’t we doing this? Change had to start at the community level.

I’d dreamt of creating an eco-education center in college, but the idea faded away with the dusty roads of Latin America. But, in 2008, I returned home inspired by my early vision and began sharing my idea with friends and family. One conversation led to another and another and within 12 months a diverse assembly of incredibly talented people stood by my side ready to create The Ecology Center. Talented artists, business leaders, city officials, non-profit executives and countless passionate supporters shared in this common vision. On November 18, 2008 we held our groundbreaking and shortly thereafter began planting and designing our gardens. Hundreds of volunteers came forward, ready to dig in and within a year, we planted the grounds with vegetable gardens, native plants, and fruit trees. Ecology and Orange County hasn’t been synonymous, but we were delightfully proven wrong. Since then, we’ve hosted hundreds of workshops, events and programs engaging over 50,000 individuals on-site. Many hundreds of thousands more have participated in our digital and online content. And this is just the beginning. We’re growing a grassroots movement as a community, where each of us contributes to the health of our future. We couldn’t do what we do without your support. We are incredibly grateful to our founding members, past and present board members, our corporate supporters, and our individual donors. We’re incredibly optimistic about our future and we’re excited to share a common vision with you. The Future is Abundant.

Evan Marks 3


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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2 / BOARD OF DIRECTORS

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dear Friends, From the beginning, the Board of Directors has been dedicated to building The Ecology Center as an environmental education organization that rivals the best in the world. Over the years, board members have included experts from the non-profit and business worlds, all bringing a unique and valuable set of skills with which to elevate The Ecology Center to an organization with wisdom beyond its years.

Our highly qualified and engaged board of directors includes: Jamie Welsh, CHAIR (2012-PRESENT) CEO, Red Willow Group

Harry Helling CHAIR (2010-2012) At the core, the mission of The Ecology Center is CHANGE – bringing awareness through education, inspiring action through skills-building, and shaping attitudes by connecting community. The goal of The Ecology Center is to move our culture away from isolationist consumerism and back to a conscious community that values our shared ecosystems. It is about enlisting individuals to join forces in a cultural movement toward sustainability and positive impact on our environment. These first six years of successes and substantive growth prove the dedication of The Ecology Center to its mission and goals. This has been achieved through professionalism in business practices, commitment to mission-aligned partnerships, curation of our strong visual brand, and passion to provide compelling and world-class environmental education. It is the vision of the Board to grow The Ecology Center into a resource and community center that is meaningful not only to the immediate communities in Orange County, but grows to be a global voice for positive ecological change.

President, CEO, Crystal Cove Alliance

Dale Howe, TREASURER Principal, Dale Howe CPA

Kimberly Krantz, SECRETARY Senior Manager of Communications, The Boeing Company

Cristina Cherpas-Wyett, BOARD MEMBER Business Development, Diana Garreau

Johnny Schillereff, BOARD MEMBER CEO, Element Skateboards

Ryan O’Melveny Wilson, BOARD MEMBER Executive Chef, Lawry’s Family of Restaurants

We are grateful for all of the community members that have been a part of this movement –volunteers, members, donors, educators, and staff – and we look forward to guiding The Ecology Center toward even more success.

PRO-BONO LEGAL: Jackson Lewis LLP Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP

Jamie Welsh, Chair (2012-present) Harry Helling (Chair 2010-2012) CEO, Red Willow Group President, CEO, Crystal Cove Alliance

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THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 / LETTER FROM EVAN

3

2 / FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

5

3 / OUR APPROACH

9

4 / OUR FACILITY

13

5 / EDUCATION

19

6 / RECOGNITION

33

7 / FINANCIALS

35

8 / CORPORATE CASE STUDIES

39

9 / SUPPORT

45

10 / FUTURE GOALS

59

11 / GRATITUDE

61

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THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

8


3 / OUR APPROACH

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR APPROACH The Ecology Center is founded on the principle that each person can make a difference toward a sustainable future. We encourage people to “PLEDGE / DO / SHARE.” because our mission is about people making a difference at home. Through education and exhibitions, we bring to life powerful sustainability messages to audiences of all ages and locales. We foster positive ecological actions through engaging pledge methods, accessible education, creative content, and encouraging follow up to increase and continue positive community impact. We know from experience that individual actions transform community, elevating the health of our environment and ecosystems. Through basic action, we can create a diverse, safe, and healthy world with clean air, water, and power for ours and future generations.

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3 / OUR APPROACH

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

MISSION / VISION MISSION The Ecology Center educates, inspires, and empowers individuals to be better stewards of our shared environment and ecosystems.

VISION Overall we believe the world we live in is facing radical change – and our aim is to help find positive futures in the face of that change. To prepare for the challenges of the future, we need a culture that knows how to sustain the things that sustain us and at the same time nurtures creativity, imagination and adaptability.

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3 / OUR APPROACH

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR EXPERIENCE Over the last six years, The Ecology Center transformed an unoccupied house and dirt lot into a beautiful, thriving community organization focused on shifting culture and behavior toward greater sustainability in Orange County, California. Started in a county famous for its cars, cul-de-sacs, and consumerism, The Ecology Center was an experiment to see if this type of culture could be compelled to care about the environmental issues of our time. While typical environmental organizations often motivate with negative statistics or a somber tone, The Ecology Center utilizes a unique, hopeful approach that proved effective in our focus on people’s individual potential to make big impact through simple, daily changes.

OUR FOCUS / 5 CORE VERTICALS The Ecology Center has seen huge growth in community participation in the past six years, and we continue to transform our culture through our educational resources, fun events, and offerings of new skills. Utilizing the core thematic areas of Food, Water, Energy, Waste, and Shelter, The Ecology Center develops a holistic understanding in our visitors of their interconnectedness with the environment. Our five core focus areas work together to bring about positive ecological transformation.

FOOD Local, sustainable, organic farms & gardens ensure abundant, nutritious food production for all.

WATER Healthy water­sheds = healthy ecosystems. Harvest and conserve to make our water go further.

WASTE Reduce, reuse, recycle and rethink how we treat waste in our homes and communities.

ENERGY Engage renewable energy sources and conservation at macro (grid) and micro (home) levels.

SHELTER Transform your shelter into a low-impact, less expensive and healthier place to dwell. 11


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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4 / FACILITY

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FACILITY A visit to The Ecology Center brings you one step closer to becoming more educated, inspired, and empowered in good stewardship of Southern California’s environment. We are a 1-acre site composed of our headquarters and general store in the historic Congdon Farmhouse (built in 1878), plus the surrounding learning landscapes and The Eco-Labs of Food, Water, Energy, Waste, and Shelter. Our facility welcomes individuals and groups on-site and on-location for educational tours, field trips, and private events. Attend a lecture or workshop to learn new skills and practical, hands-on solutions to improve the shared ecosystems in our homes and communities.

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4 / FACILITY

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

ROOTED IN TRADITION Perched in the middle of farm fields even today, the Congdon House on Alipaz Street has seen many firsts in its 135-year farmhouse history. Built in 1878, it is the oldest wooden structure in San Juan Capistrano. When Pony Express Rider Joel Congdon built his family home in 1878, it was the first wooden house in town. The two-story Victorian sat on square stone blocks taken from the rubble of the Great Stone Church at Mission San Juan Capistrano, with walls of redwood from Northern California, held together by square iron nails, shipped from San Francisco. In 1887, Congdon planted Orange County’s first walnut grove around the house, beginning an agricultural tradition that would continue with the succession of families that have lived there since. In 1991, the city bought the Congdon House and surrounding farmland as part of the open-space bond purchase, preserving an essential piece of San Juan Capistrano’s heritage. Now, through The Ecology Center, the Congdon House continues to tell its story. Having witnessed more than 130 years of social, agricultural, and environmental change, it is the perfect venue for an exploration of the links between past, present, and future. At the same time, as one of the oldest standing embodiments of the past, it serves to remind us that we must act today to rejuvenate the environment for the generations to follow.

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Groudbreaking, November 18, 2008


4 / FACILITY

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

THE ECO-LABS We’ve developed a unique learning landscape that teaches sustainability at the household and community level. We’ve hand crafted unique exhibits of nature-inspired technology and interactive tools that provide tangible solutions to our current ecological challenges. A journey through The Eco-Labs engages us to explore the interconnected components of a sustainable system; Water, Food, Energy, Waste, and Shelter.

THE FOOD LAB Based on our interactive food system game, The Food Shed, students investigate where our food comes from and the choices that lead to a healthy meal. Other components include raised vegetable boxes, fruit trees, and container gardening demos.

THE WATER LAB With support from our mobile exhibition, The Water Shed, students explore where our water comes from and learn everyday solutions for conservation and re-use. Other components include rainwater harvesting, a greywater system, and aquaculture and wetland gardens that mimic the processes of nature.

THE WASTE LAB The Waste Lab demonstrates that all things can be recycled through demonstrations of backyard chickens, composting, vermiculture, using plants for removing pollution, and recycling installations.

THE ENERGY LAB Starting from the solar panels that power our facility, students explore practical energy solutions including exhibitions such as the living roof, an installation on pedal power, and appropriate technology used in the developing world.

THE SHELTER LAB In the Shelter Lab, students engage with useful native plants that provide medicine, fiber, and building materials. They also explore survival skills that may include: fire making, emergency shelter, and fort-building stations.

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THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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4 / FACILITY

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

Farm to Fork, 2012 Making a pledge, The Water Shed, 2011 We Are Earth Day Festival, 2012 The Ecology Center, 2008 Volunteer Tree Planting Day, 2009 Sylvia Marks, Founding Member Christian Beamish, Basic Needs 2011 Our first Earth Day Festival, 2009 Sandra Steingraber, Basic Needs 2009 Grow Your Own! students, 2012 Green Feast, 2010 Mark Plotkin, Basic Needs, 2012 Green Feast, 2012

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THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

EDUCATION Founded on the principle that each person can make a difference toward a sustainable future, The Ecology Center teaches practical environmental solutions that youths and adults can implement at home, in workplaces, or in schools. We offer a variety of eco-educational programs both on and off site. Our Backyard Skills lectures and workshops teach practical skills and hands-on solutions to building healthy homes. Through Grow Your Own!, our organic garden school program, we empower schools to integrate garden and outdoor science experiences into their curriculum. Our community events inspire all to reconnect with local farmers and build a sustainable food culture. In addition to our programs, we welcome individuals and groups to our educational grounds for self-guided and group tours, field trips, and private events.

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

SCHOOL BASED PROGRAMS GROW YOUR OWN! Empowering schools to create self-perpetuating organic garden programs to engage their students in hands-on science, food, and environmental learning.

ECO-LABS SCHOOL PROGRAMS On-site interactive explorations of Food, Water, Shelter, Waste, and Energy ecosystems and the small actions we can take to improve them.

THE WATER SHED A mobile interactive exhibition on the topic of water. Appropriate for all ages, this hands-on experience explores where water comes from and how to be good stewards.

PUBLICATIONS EVOLVE Our quarterly eco-journal of obtainable & sustainable solutions. Written and supported by a wide network of activists and ecological professionals, Evolve explores both local and global perspectives on contemporary ecological issues.

SPLASH! An engaging, award winning, graphic illustration that explores our water footprint from the food we eat to our power supply to the products we purchase.

BACKYARD SKILLS: A DIY HANDBOOK A collection of 19 do-it-yourself solutions, practices and projects to help you be a part of the solution. Instructions, photos, tips and resources for brewing beer, designing reclaimed furniture, cooking with the sun and much more.

BACKYARD SKILLS PRIMERS A series of booklets filled with simple how-to’s to inspire positive ecological action in your home, including raising backyard chickens, growing container gardens, caring for your bikes, and more.

15 WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR WATERSHED A pocket-sized handbook showing simple ways you can take action to create lasting and beneficial change in the health of our watershed. 20


5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

PUBLIC PROGRAMS BACKYARD SKILLS A lecture and workshop series teaching hands-on techniques and positive ways to live in connection with our ecosystems.

COMMUNITY TABLE A pop-up farm-to-table sustainable dining and culinary training experience at The Ecology Center.

SUMMER ECO-CAMPS Enriching experiences for kids in a unique eco-educational environment; campers gain knowledge and confidence, learn new skills, and engage with quality mentors.

FARM TO FORK Hands-on cooking classes for kids and adults starting with farm-fresh ingredients and ending with a delicious, nutritious meal.

BASIC NEEDS Our summer speaker series brings global thought leaders to talk about current, compelling environmental issues.

TOOLS FOR CHANGE Our General Store of curated and eco-approved products that move us toward a more sustainable consumer culture.

ECO-APPRENTICES Dive deeper into hands-on ecological design with this 6-month course exploring food, water, waste, energy, and shelter to become an eco-advocate!

BACKYARD SKILLS AT THE CENTER FOR LIVING PEACE AT THE CENTER FOR LIVING PEACE

Backyard Skills workshop series at the Center for Living Peace in Irvine, CA teaching positive ways to live in connection with our ecosystems.

EARTH DAY Our annual community festival of free, fun, hands-on ways to inspire you to celebrate and live Earth Day every day!

GREEN FEAST Our annual fundraising dinner: a unique farm-to-table experience where renowned chefs celebrate what is local, seasonal, and delicious. 21


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

We Are Earth Day Festival, 2014 Pledges to save water, 2011 The Water Shed, 2011 The Eco-Labs, 2012 Grow Your Own! students, 2012 Hens Heidi and Carmen, 2013

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

BACKYARD SKILLS Backyard Skills Program empowers our community through ecological skills training, DIY workshops, and our permaculture design certification course “EcoApprentices.” The program trains community participants through practical, hands-on topics such as: energy efficiency, lawn remediation, native plantings, greywater reuse, and edible gardens. The Ecology Center seeks to inform residents about the resources necessary to support the population, and teach hands-on skills that will reduce waste. This training empowers people to be good stewards of our environmental resources. With our model of Pledge/Do/Share, individuals are challenged to put their new skills to work and share what they learned with others. This creates a vibrant, expanding network of ecological impact and uses the very participants who engage in the programs to promote it further within the community. We have hosted over 175 Backyard Skills lectures and workshops including 12 annual workshops at the Center for Living Peace, and two 72-hour ecological design certification courses successfully teaching hands-on ecological skills to over 4,000 individuals across Southern California.

IMPACT: 2009–2014: 175 workshops & 4000 participants

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

GROW YOUR OWN! Grow Your Own! is a robust K-12 educational initiative wherein The Ecology Center enables students to have hands-on, outdoor learning experiences that focus on the connection between food, health, and the environment. Our multifaceted approach, designed in collaboration with teachers, meets schools’ needs and provides context for students to engage directly with food issues. The program teaches kids to make informed choices and establishes behaviors that will have lasting benefits for their health, their communities, and the ecosystems we all share. Currently, The Ecology Center fully facilitates 20 Grow Your Own! schools throughout Southern California and acts as a hub for a on-site educational activities. Designed for sustainability, Grow Your Own! guides participating schools to run their own programs and act as resources for incoming schools the following year. We empower school garden leaders to become the experts themselves. Our goal is to make a one-time, two-year mentorship investment into a school to produce self-perpetuating gardens that will flourish for years to come.

IMPACT: 2011–2014: 20 schools (16 in Orange County, 4 in San Diego) 11,200 student participants 740 admins/teachers/leaders

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

THE WATER SHED The Water Shed is an exciting mobile exhibition all about water. This exhibit on wheels travels to schools, special events, and festivals throughout Southern California and transforms into a fun, hands-on interactive experience that explores where water comes from, the daily decisions that affect our future supply, and how to be good water stewards. The Water Shed is a unique educational tool that we are happy to offer individuals of all ages, thanks to sponsorship by the Hurley H2O program. In this interactive journey, visitors begin by harvesting water through a series of pumps, learning where our water comes from, about our local watershed, global issues, and more. Next, they travel through The Shed and “spend” their water, learning how everyday choices, either directly or indirectly, affect their personal water consumption. Finally, visitors choose one or more ways to save water everyday, and build a pledge wall with their fellow water advocates. Through this experience, the everyday actions that make a difference are forever blossoming in their minds.

IMPACT: 2011–2014: 50 trips 9100 partipants/pledges 450,000+ gallons of water saved

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

ECO-LABS FIELD TRIPS The Eco-Labs at The Ecology Center are outdoor interpretive stations with tools and activities that provide systems-thinking, ecologically relevant, hands-on education through interactive explorations of what our ecosystems are and how we can live to improve them. Focusing in the areas of Water, Food, Waste, Energy, and Shelter, The Ecology Center offers tours, field trips, content, and curriculum toolkits. Educators and students can engage with ecology in fun, hands-on ways that also satisfy the California State Standards for Science. Over the last six years, our offerings have become more robust and dynamic, expanding from our most basic hour-long interactive tour through the Eco-Labs to multi-day, customized experiences for groups ranging from five to over 300 participants. In 2013, by request from schools, The Ecology Center began off-site versions of its Eco Labs field trips as mobile assemblies. These engagements reached almost 400 students in their first year, and featured our hallmark hands-on approach with demonstration rain barrels, teepees, veggie boxes, bicycles, and even a live chicken!

IMPACT: 2009–2014: 7310 participants

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

BASIC NEEDS SPEAKER SERIES To advance the dialogue around some of today’s most pressing – and most tangible – environmental issues, The Ecology Center hosts renowned experts and entrepreneurs such as ethnobotanist Mark Plotkin, eco-architect Fritz Haeg, sustainable designer Cameron Sinclair, and eco-entrepreneur Erin Schrode, for a series of evening lectures. Basic Needs connects to issues in food, water, and shelter, and the program builds a bridge between the local environmental impact that affects us in Southern California and the global environmental impact that affects us all.

PAST SPEAKERS: Roian Atwood - Sole Technology Christian Beamish - Sailor, Author Michael Besancon - Whole Foods Market Fritz Haeg - Artist Brad Lancaster - Permaculturist, Author Greg MacGillivray - MacGillivray Freeman Films Mathew Miller - Project H Design Darrin Nordahl - Author Emily Pilloton - Project H Design Mark Plotkin - Amazon Conservation Team Chris Prelitz - Environmentalist, Author Derek Sabori - Volcom Shaheen Sadeghi - LAB Holding Johnny Schillereff - Element Skateboards Erin Schrode - Teens Turning Green Cameron Sinclair - Architecture for Humanity Mark Smith - Nike Sandra Steingraber - Ecologist, Author Tyler Valiquette - Catapult Design Patrick Holden - Sustainable Food Trust

IMPACT: 2009–2014: 1310 participants

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

WE ARE EARTH DAY FESTIVAL We Are Earth Day is our annual community festival of free, fun, hands-on ways to inspire everyone to celebrate and live Earth Day every day. Attendees explore our grounds with a scavenger hunt throughout the Eco-Labs and enjoy hands-on eco-activities for children and adults. At the end, participants take a pledge to be part of the solution to a healthier ecosystem by growing a veggie garden, conserving water, or riding a bicycle to make everyday Earth Day! One of our biggest community festivals, Earth Day draws thousands of people each year.

IMPACT: 2009–2014: 5600 participants

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

GREEN FEAST Our Green Feast fundraising benefit is a celebration of locally grown, artisanal food, prepared by OC’s most distinguished chefs, and enjoyed al fresco on The Ecology Center’s grounds. As a celebration of local and sustainable food, all ingredients used are sourced within a 250-mile radius of The Ecology Center. Guests of the landmark event are sustainability experts, respected leaders of organizations, and community leaders from around Southern California. Green Feast generates funds to support eco-education programs at The Ecology Center, where families, children, and adults learn practical ways to grow organic gardens, how to conserve water and energy, and design environmentally responsible living environments. Green Feast garners media features in publications such as Riviera Magazine, Coast Magazine, OC Register, and OC Metro, thereby inspiring thousands of people throughout Southern California to support our local artisans.

IMPACT: 2009–2014: 1400 guests 30+ local chefs 200+ local purveyors

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500+

OUR COLLECTIVE IMPACT

Products to help our community live a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

2008-2014 The Ecology Center began in 2008 when founder Evan Marks and a dedicated team of supporters transformed a vacant lot and historic farm house into a thriving non-profit eco-educational center, the first and only of its kind in Southern California.

Over 1100 individuals became Advocate members of The Ecology Center for at least 1 year.

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35,000

ACCELERATED YEAR-OVER-YEAR GROWTH IN INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPATION

30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000

10,100

10,000

ECO-APPRENTICE GRADUATES We mentor landscape designers, architects, teachers, sustainability leaders, and eco-entrepreneurs in an intensive Permaculture Design Certification program– the only one of its kind in Orange County. Since 2009, TEC has experienced accelerated growth as more people join our community, programs and initiatives. 16,600

30,650

17,500

The Water Shed a mobile exhibit– hit the road teaching

9,500

9100 KIDS about water

6,200

5,000 0

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

footprinting and water conservation awareness.


GROW YOUR OWN!

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Our facility boasts interactive Eco-Labs built to highlight and educate about our core verticals: Energy, Water, Food, Waste and Shelter.

SINCE 2012, 740 ADULTS & 11,200 STUDENTS HAVE PARTICIPATED

SCHOOLS

OFFERING IDEAS AND RESOURCES FOR EVERYDAY GREEN LIVING

We implemented and maintained a school garden program complete with curriculum and support in local schools and their communities.

An open-forum discussion with global thought leaders on current environmental issues.

WITH A CIRCULATION OF OVER 30,000

SUMMER SPEAKER SERIES

Attended by

1300 GUESTS

& raised over Since 2009, The Ecology Center has received grants and donations from 20+ Corporations for eco-education at and Foundations as well as The Ecology Center hundreds of individuals. We couldn’t operate without support from Hurley [$702,000], Anonymous [$361,000], Chipotle Cultivate Foundation [$175,000], The Boeing Company [$167,000], Sempra Energy Foundation [$98,000] and Kia Motors America [$95,000] amongst many others!

175,750

DIGITAL INTERACTIONS Through our website, email newsletter and social media, we shared educational DIY resources, tutorials, and videos with our community.

We established the premiere sold-out farm-to-table feast featuring ingredients sourced within 250 miles.

AVERAGE VOLUNTEER HOURS PER MONTH

BY OVER VOLUNTEERS

280

BACKYARD SKILLS Taught 7,300 adults and kids practical ways to live in connection with our ecosystem and become more self-reliant.


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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6 / RECOGNITION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

RECOGNITION The Ecology Center was founded by Executive Director Evan Marks in the fall of 2008 with the vision of becoming the regional hub for sustainability and green living education. In its first six years, The Center has received overwhelming support from the community. Thanks to strong community and funder support, the organization has had the opportunity to grow in a meaningful and sustainable way and develop a suite of core programs that have demonstrated relevance and demand in the community. Along the way, we’ve been recognized for our impactful programming both local and nationally. Here’s a list of awards we’ve received:

NATIONAL AWARDS

PRESS

Gold IDSA Award for Splash! National Garden Association Environmental Stewardship Award

Coast Magazine Edible OC The Examiner Fast Co. Exist GOOD Magazine Great Taste The Huffington Post Natural OC

REGIONAL AWARDS Coast Magazine Environmental Project of the Year OC Metro 40 Under 40

OC Metro OC Register Patch Riveria Magazine SJC Times Sunset Magazine Urban Farm Westways AAA

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THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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7 / FINANCIALS

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

FINANCIALS ORDINARY INCOME/EXPENSE

JAN - DEC 2014

Income Donation Income

32,331.15

Membership Income

27,675.00

Corporate Sponsorship

196,697.96

Public Programs

44,400.30

Community Table

15,475.70

School Programs

29,677.00

General Store Income

54,453.41

Events

158,793.94

Private Events

58,756.27

Consulting/Design Studio

17,450.00

Grants Interest Income TOTAL INCOME

336,050.00 66.91 971,827.64

Expense Fundraising Expenses

34,755.53

General & Admin Expenses

97,941.38

Programs & Facility Expenses

665,445.63

Total Expense

798,142.54

Net Ordinary Income

146,144.46

NET INCOME

146,144.46

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5 / EDUCATION

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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THE ECOLOGY CENTER

1.

Green Feast, 2013

2.

We Are Earth Day, 2012

3.

We Are Earth Day, 2013

4.

Green Feast, 2013

5.

The Eco-Labs, 2009

6.

We Are Earth Day, 2013

7.

Earth Day, 2013

8.

Greg MacGillivray, Basic Needs, 2012

9.

Grow Your Own! students, 2012

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

10. Sandra Streingraber, Basic Needs, 2010 11. The Food Shed, 2012 12. School bus tour, Grow Your Own!, 2012 13. The Water Shed, 2011

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THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

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8 / CORPORATE CASE STUDIES

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

CORPORATE CASE STUDIES The Ecology Center’s Corporate Partners represent outstanding local businesses interested in solving current ecological problems, allowing both business and nature to thrive and grow. Our Corporate Partners provide vital support to sustain the eco-educational mission and programs of TEC. In return, our partners receive valuable recognition opportunities and benefits including access to exciting, relevant environmental information and skills, ultimately promoting individual action toward systemic change. Collaborating with like-minded brands is one of our greatest strengths. We pride ourselves in developing meaningful and authentic relationship with mutual benefit to both our corporate partners and The Ecology Center.

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8 / CORPORATE CASE STUDIES

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

HURLEY INTERNATIONAL Through a multi-year sponsorship agreement beginning in 2009, The Ecology Center collaborates with Hurley through their successful H2O water conservation and education program. We helped conceptualize and launch the H2O program, and, as the local education partner of this global corporation, we raise community awareness through various events and local activation on World Water Day, various publications, and world-class exhibitions including Splash! How Good Water Works, The Water Shed, Protect Our Watershed, and Healthy Lifestyle/Healthy Oceans. We also worked with event organizers in 2012 and 2013 to “green” the Hurley Pro surf competition with educational content throughout the event and back-of-house sustainability. World Water Day Pledges toward good water stewardship totaled over 42,000 gallons to be saved per day In 2012, The Water Shed, powered by our partnership with Hurley H20, was experienced by over 4,200 people across 16 different deployments. With H2O, The Ecology Center prototyped a pledge collection model, and, in total, we collected over 1,700 pledges totaling over 202,000 gallons of water saved in 2012. “We are honored and humbled to work with our friends at The Ecology Center, who continue to educate and inspire us. They empower people to get involved and do their part for humankind... Educating in a fun and interactive environment helps shape thinking and motivates us all to ‘be part of the solution.’ We learn from them. Ultimately, they inspire us to go further.” -Benjamin Edwards VICE PRESIDENT FOR GLOBAL OUTREACH HURLEY INTERNATIONAL

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8 / CORPORATE CASE STUDIES

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

THE BOEING COMPANY Since 2009, The Boeing Company has provided over $167,000 to The Ecology Center through their Global Corporate Citizenship grantmaking fund as well as the Employees Community Fund of Boeing California. Supported projects at The Ecology Center have included infrastructure and exhibit support to complete the Eco-Labs, interactive learning landscapes that explore the ecosystems of Food, Water, Waste, Energy, and Shelter; environmental science-based curriculum used in school visits and field trips; lecture series with renowned global thinkers about people’s basic needs; sponsorship of local, seasonal, sustainable food education through Green Feast; and most recently, community empowerment for environmental retrofitting through our Backyard Skills programs and Eco-Apprentice permaculture design certification course. “This is an exciting time to work with The Ecology Center. I’m proud to represent Boeing on the organization’s board of directors, and it’s my privilege to work with Evan and his team on developing the strategy for growth and development. Our partnership also allows us to bring educational tools to Boeing employees through volunteer opportunities, such as our Earth Day events in April. We look forward to working with The Ecology Center to continue building a sustainable future for all who are dedicated to environmental stewardship.” -Kimberly Krantz, BOEING SPACE & INTELLIGENCE COMMUNICATIONS

41


8 / CORPORATE CASE STUDIES

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

CHIPOTLE CULTIVATE FOUNDATION As a transformative partner, the Chipotle Cultivate Foundation is integral in the expansion of the Grow Your Own! School Garden program and launch of The Food Shed interactive learning exhibit at The Ecology Center. Food’s journey from farm to fork may start as far away as Chile or China - or as close as your own backyard, and how far food travels can have long lasting impact on our health and our environment. Modeled after the Chipotle supply chain, The Food Shed engages visitors in fun games that teach where our food comes from, how it gets to us, and everyday choices to make our food ecosystems healthy and abundant. Thousands of visitors coming through The Ecology Center participate with The Food Shed on a daily basis. Through generous funding from Chipotle Cultivate Foundation, The Ecology Center is also able to take important environmental and food education into local schools. Launched in spring 2012, our Grow Your Own! school garden program is a K-12 education initiative that equips teachers, administrators, and parents with tools and resources to create and maintain a school garden curriculum. With the help of Chipotle’s $100,000 grant in 2014, Grow Your Own! is able to fully facilitate 20 schools throughout Southern California, impacting 11,200 students and 740 admins, teachers, and leaders. “We are always looking to support organizations that are helping to build a better food future. The Ecology Center really embodies some of our core beliefs, engaging children in a way that makes learning about food fun and rewarding, and we are thrilled that our support of their Food Shed program has helped to make this resource a reality.” -Chris Arnold SECRETARY CHIPOTLE CULTIVATE FOUNDATION 42


8 / CORPORATE CASE STUDIES

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

KIA MOTORS AMERICA The Ecology Center launched a partnership with Kia Motors America in September 2013 to facilitate transformation of the internal corporate culture to align with their eco-mindedness in vehicle production. In the first year of partnership, Kia and The Ecology Center will organize and carry out sustainability-themed learning projects at the KMA campus in Irvine, Calif., and in the surrounding community. Both organizations will work together to plan hands-on conservation and volunteer activities at the Center, with KMA team members providing the manpower to execute each project. As the partnership grows, The Ecology Center can catalyze that same thinking on an even broader scope to Kia’s car-buying community to better spread the message of sustainability to even more individuals and families in southern California and beyond. “Kia understands that a conscious dedication to sustainability is crucial for not only the continued success of our organization, but also the health and happiness of our customers and the communities we call home. Since its founding, The Ecology Center has grown to be a widely recognized leader for conservation and environmental awareness, and as the Center continues to expand its reach, it is the perfect partner with which Kia can pursue its vision for a greener future.” -Michael Sprague EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS KIA MOTORS AMERICA

43


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

44


9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

SUPPORT We are founded on the principle that people can make a difference. Individual actions do transform the community, elevating the health of our environment for future generations. Anyone can make a worthy contribution, whether it be through membership, volunteerism, or in-kind donation. Join us in becoming part of the solution! We are incredibly grateful to our founding members, past and present board members, our corporate supporters, and our individual donors. We’re incredibly optimistic about our future, and are excited to share a common vision.

45 45


9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

MEMBERSHIP By becoming a member of The Ecology Center, you are joining a community of individuals representing every level of the environmental journey. Your membership gets you access to meaningful content and skill-building workshops, plus the support and engagement to take what you learn and put it into action. In addition to your own journey, you are also supporting unique educational programs that go into schools and communities to elevate and sustain the health of the ecosystems that we all depend upon.

46 46


9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

FOUNDING MEMBERS: $2,500

Vicki & David Marks

Segerstrom Foundation

Kris Linn & David

Mary & Jerry Elliott

Sylvia Marks

Jan & Warren Siegel

Donna & Ken Friess

Quiksilver Foundation

The Joseph Hoyt

Marjorie Lesovsky

Sambazon

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS

Bronner City of San Juan Capistrano

Foundation Volcom

TRANSFORMATIVE PARTNERS: $700,000 +

$20,000 - $50,000

$5,000 - $9,999

$2,500 - $4,999

Hurley International, LLC

Tod & Linda White

Farmers & Merchants

Whole Foods Market

$300,000 - $400,000

Volcom

Ceres Foundation

Anonymous

OC Coast Keeper Green

The Pimco Foundation

Sustainability &

City of San Juan

Innovation

Foundation

Fund

$100,000 - $200,000

Metropolitan Water District

Chipotle Cultivate

The Hexberg Family

Foundation

Foundation

Bank

Capistrano San Luis Obispo County Office of Education

The Boeing Company

Tarsadia Foundation

Orange County Community

$50,000 - $100,000

$10,000 - $20,000

City of San Clemente

Sempra Energy

Sambazon

Roger Abramsom

SAPPI Fine Paper North

Lowe’s

Foundation

Foundation Kia Motors America

America New Belgium Brewing Co.

Foundation for

CR&R David Bronner Jonathon Phillips Ryan Black Staci Bing

California Center for Sustanable Energy

Swayne Family Foundation

Christopher L. Blank

Mission Hospital

Dale R. Howe, CPA

Segerstrom Foundation

Teach a Man To Fish

Red Willow Group

General Electric

Foundation

Ford Motor Company

The Pacific Foundation, Inc.

OCCF Next Generation

Wells Fargo Bank

Philanthropy Pacific Life Foundation

47


9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS $1,000-$2,499

Schwab Charitable Fund

Virgil & Sidney Kitrell

D’Shawn Kerrins

Sabrina Ericastilla & Jamie

Vipe & Kim Desai

Warren Bidmead

Daniel Jackson

Welsh

Sole Technology, Inc.

David Baron

Hobie Surf Shops

Abel George

$250-$499

Desiree Tanner

Marcy Pattinson

Bob & Kris Allison

DealGooder, LLC

Diane Finagan

Whole Kids Foundation

Bruce & Barbara Matsui

Jean Marie Connelly

Doug & Kathy Hibbard

Roland & Dawn Arnall

Burleigh Point, LTD

Phil & Alisa Chacon

Dyanna Burak

Cecilia Brennan

Dotster One

Edie Barvin

Chris & Tracy Keys

Manuella & Bjorn Melchert

Energy Solutions

Dale & Rita Howe

Donald & Traude Valachi

Eric & Brigid Landau

Mary Elliott

Denise Petricig

Ryan & Kim Westendorf

Eril & Theresa John

David & Vicki Marks

Denny Baubian

Welton & Beata Mansfield

Helen & Alan Smith

Ocean Institute

Diana Christianson

Del Obispo PTA

Jason Graham

Brick Pizzaria, LLC

Ecoscraps Inc.

Seed Peoples Market

Jeff & Jennifer

St. Regis Monarch Beach

Erin H Brown

Jennifer Segerstrom

Kirschenbaum

Ferdi & Kay Taygan

Beto & Tamar Bedolfe

Jeff & Susan Brown

Cristina Cherpas

Greg & Barbara

Carla Calavitta

Jim Colombo & Mariana

Anton & Jennifer

MacGillivray

Foundation California Community Foundation

Resort

Segerstrom

Dawn Thompson

Aguirro

Jessica & Wesley Koenen

Dick & Jane Wilbur

Jim Riley

Caringella Family

Jonnie LoFranco

George & Ines Cuzakis

Kathryn & Ulrich Hiesinger

Celina & Steve Stratton

Julie Vandermost

Isobel Pelham

Kevin & Tammie Searfoss

Christopher Hynes

Kathleen Kaiser & Neven

Kirsten Horning

Linda & Larry Elbert

Kyle Scrimgeour

Lindel Smith

Neighborhood

Madeliene Dossin

City of Dana Point Cox Communications Element Skateboards

Spralja Laguna Beach Properties/ Hobie Sports

Congregational Church

Mark & Kim Sorenson

James Tyler

Maya Patel

Neil & Lisa O’Connor

Mark Eddy

Jessica Watkins

Norm & Theola

Theresa Allen

Martin & Karen Diedrich

Wolverine World Wide

Mary Moncilovich-Greer

Linda Pierog

Kirschenbaum

Michael & Diana Graber

Ortega Rangers

Miele Family

Patagonia

Lincoln School

Foundation

Propaganda Headquarters

Peter & The Recchia Family

Amanda McDorman

Kelly Slater

Robert & Vicki Redding

Real Office Centers

Roger Wyett

Andre Lake Mayer

Robert Ferguson

Ryan & Nikki Wilson

S. Daniel Melita

Andrew Malone

Scott & Catherine

Samantha Smith

Scott & Lisa McKee

Barbara Lorenz

Toyota

Scotty & Fernanda Nemeth

Bernard E Schneider

The Kraemer Family

Johnson

Micki & Michael Besancon Myron & Marolyn Wacholder Rita & Eric Stodder

McKnight

Shannon & Bill Cook

Bonnie Spinazze

Theresa Allen

$500-$999

Stephanie Ray

Brian Dundon

Timothy & Deborah Reeder

Surfrider Foundation

The Cellar

Bryon Freeze

Troels Larsen

Derek & Sibley Sabori

Tom Davin

Chi-Lin Sun

Valerie Drey

J.M. Marsh

Una Baker

Chris & Keith Reyes

William Craven

Linda & Marty Weiss

Valerie Drey

Christine Leininger

Winkler Family

48


9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS $100-$249

Kenneth Frank

Anne Earhart

Dale Palas

Peter O. Kornhaber

Advisory Board Company

Azmin Ghahreman

Danarene & Dave Kalina

DeAnna Reposa

Anne & Devin Caringella

Barbara & Gregory White

Dani Sellers

Elisa Slee

Coyote Brown

Barbara Cottrell

Daniel Pingaro

John Fuller

Debra & David Weinberg

Barbara George

David & Ana Rager

Organic Land Design

Dick & Nancy Gray

Barbara Hoyt

David & Mary Kay

Andrew & Lillian Trammell

Dolores & Gary Wright

Barry Campbell

Catherine Wachtel

Elisa Slee

Barry Parker

David Bruck

Cristie & Mark

Jeanette Orel

Becky Facer

Debbie & Rick Hansen

Kristi Golden

Bedonna Smith

Debra Terrell

Daneen Lindner

Michael & Trudy Joyce

Ben Edwards

Deidra Weger

Dawn & Scott Johnson

Regina Hartley

Beth Beswick

Deirdra & Tracy Wager

Debby Rightmire

Square Customer

Brad & Joanne Allen

Delomega Solutions LLC

Dee White

The Hnybee LLC

Brad Deckoning

Denise Leiva

Don & Kris Wilson

Thomas Fuelling

Brad Schlachter

Denise Petitfils

Fred & Mary Behziz

Buffalo Exchange

Brian Dunn

Dian Garateix

Gail Massoll & Roger

Andrea Drexelius

Brigid Jeffers & Cara

Diana Morgan

Montgomery

Mangrum

Carol Tuch

Cowdrey

Diane & John Collins Dolores & Gary Dang-

Gina Chironis

Debbie Naude

Camlyn Murray

Graham & Bahara

Killer Dana, LLC

Carl & Dotty Hagmier

Stapelberg

Ashkenaze

Wright

Mike & Debbie Bosse

Carl Nolet

Donna Roontz

Jethro Naude

Victoria Foley

Carly Andrews

Doreen Wakefield

Juliana Essen

Riviera

Cecilia Gonzales

Dotty Hagmire

Keith, Sue & Luke Schildt

Tamara Jean Maher

Charlene Huddleston

Douglas & Kathryn Hibbard

Kelley Wild

Abigail Illenberger

Charles Buck

Dylan & Kimberly Taylor

Ken & Judy Ravitz

Adam & Sheryl Fitzgerald

Charlie & Dana Burk

Edie Barvin

Linda Hackwith

Adelia Sandoval

Charlie Kallen

Elaine Deutsch

Marisa Arpels

Alison Sunny Coats

Cherish Craig

Elan Eifer

Max & Maria Isles

Alyson Michie

Chien Chou

Elemental Awareness

Randy & Sandy Davis

Alyson Wenzel

Chris & Cristina Evans

Elisa & Earl Slee

Rosemary DeSa

Amy Inoue

Chris & Kathie Hynes

Elizabeth Lelano

San Clemente Garden Club

Amy Pham

Chris & Liz Iverson

Elizabeth Robertson

Sean & Sylvia O’Malley

Amy Yeung

Christiana Nibbe & Richard

Elizabeth Vigen

Shirley Abbott

Anahita Daruwalla

Stuart & Cheryl Shapiro

Andrea Jones

Christine & Joel Maclean

Emily Galland

Therry Vargas & Lindsey

Andrea Webb

Christopher Blank

Erin & Josh Lloyd

Andrew Sieger & Lori

Collins Holdings, LLC

Erin Hawley

Connie Terranova

Evette Jaeger

Craig & Jeanne Congdon

Fisher Family

Koob Van De Kamp Trust

Marmolejo

Rook

Vintage Marina

Andrew Watkins

Arne & Lynn Rosencrantz

Ann Ronan & Ted Roberts

Ashley Matsui

Anna Lea & Howard Kantor

Curtis Holman

Chris & Bonnie Christie

Anne Bowlus

D. Kanoelani Lau Allen

Leonard

Elyssa & Yves Fournier

Francoise & Gary Cohen Frank Jeff D’Angelo Susie

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9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

Pam Drever

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS $100-$249 CONT.

Karen Terry

Manny & Victoria

George Karmazyn &

Karen Yoder

Fernandez

Pamela Quigley

Marc Goldstein

Paniagua Family

Maria Lanigan

Patricia Romo

Danelle Jacob Georgeann Elliott

Kathleen & Bradford Whitacker

Gerianne Johnson

Kathleen Schaefer

Maria Szakacs

Patti & John Markel

Giles Denning

Kathleen Smith

Mariah Doyle

Patty Roess

Gillian Burchill

Kathy Tanaka

Marilyn Nowak

Paul & Suzi Mikos

Harrison & Ana Smith

Katie & Andrew Bernal

Marissa Floyd

Peggy Hankin

Harry & Kathy Helling

Katie Schmitz Eulitt

Mark & Connie Gallison

Penny Mangione

Holly Jakobs

Keith & Kathy Muirhead

Mark & Vickie Kruhmin

Peter Kornhaber

Jack & Sara Lowell

Kelley & Heidi York

Mark Nielsen

Peter Selby & Family

Jack Jakosky

Kelly Dillon

Mark Thomas & Sue

Pierre & Beverly Grimes

Jackie McDougall

Kelly Porter

Jake & Lorrinda Luke

Kevin Nowicki

Marla Entwistle

Regina Paul

Jake Gilbert

Kevin Whilden & Abagail

Marlene Laping

Richard Bennett & Family

Marsha Johnson

Robert & Marina Sindik

Jane Birmingham

Rowe

Greenwood

Pressnell Family

Jane Ryan

Kimberly & Steve Krantz

Marty Enniss

Robert & Vicki Redding

Jason Krikorian

Kip Knight & Peggy Day

Mary Tilton

Robert Farnsworth

Jeff Davis & Erika Tucker

Krista Nicholds

Matt & Allison Kress

Robert & Sophia Machado

Jeff Leeper

Kristy Santimyer-Melita

Maxine Gandall

Robin Jones & Castine

Jennifer Tocci

Krystal Barkate

Maxine Schmidl

Jeremy Pasino

Lark & Bob Murrow

Maya Dunne

Robyn Jepsen Vettraino

Jim Pasino & Pamela

Larry & Christine Kramer

Melody Titus & Michele

Ron & Liz Leland

Kauss

Laura Cialdella

Johnson

Heuser

Roy & Holly Heine

Jo Ann Coker

Laura Homscheid

Michael & Denise Ahumada

Ryan Collins

Joe & Jenn Bocchino

Laurie Marine

Michael & Elaine Ortiz

Ryan Vaughn

John & Donna Amette

Leimel Family

Michael Shannon

Sally Davis

John & Jody Pike

Linda & Joe Baird

Michelle Kramer

Samantha Leng

John & Marianne Taylor

Linda Bard & Trisha Gamez

Michelle Scarcelli

SC Women’s Club

John Hollern

Linda Middlebrooks

Michelle Stevens

Sapient Corp

John Nikelsky & Jeannie

Lisa & Russell Parks

Michelle Tateyama

Sara Heeschen

Lisa Goff

Mim Michelove

Scott & Nicole Grimm

Johnny & Kori Schillereff

Lisa Rosen

Misty Teng

Scott Pringle

Jon & Danielle Morris

Lisa Stevens

Mitchell & Prudence

Shaheen & Linda Sadeghi

Jorden Seagraves

Lloyd Family

McMaster

Shalina Peera

Juana Mueller

Lon & Cheryl Uso

Molly Dowdell

Sharon English

Julie & Aaron Priceman

Lott & June Mason

Morgan & Nick Greenwood

Sherrie Larsen

Justin Schaefer

Lynda Mallory

Neuharth Family

Sheryl Gillett

Jutta Gamboa

Lynn Lemas

Nia Kiel

Sonya Ernst (Schilleriff)

Kameron Campbell

Mack Powell

Nicole Forgues

Sonya Fisher

Kaori Cornett

Maile O’Hara & Kofi & Kojo

Noah McMahon

Stacey & Steve Physioc

Olivia Remijio

Stacey Blaschke

Blilie

Kara Taylor

Bentsi-Enchill

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9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS $100-$249 CONT.

Amy Rasmussen

Corrainne Carroll

Jamie Wood

Stephanie & Hugh

Andrea Jackson

Crysta Dickson

Jananeh Santilus

Andres Vasquez & Sandra

Cynthia Crowe

Jane Coviello

Dagmar Foy

Janet Miscione

McCulloch Stephanie Dreyer

German-Vasquez

Steve & Margaret Bell

Ann Nguyen

Dale Ryan Johnson

Janette & Stan Braden

Stevette Del Col

Anne Hoang

Daniel & Elizabeth Evans

Janice Weist

Susan & Frank Montalvo

Ashley Agee

Danielle Lyons

Jason Rodgers

Suzanne Reuben-Kransz

Ashley Wheeler

David Levine

Jean & Tom Wilson

Tammy Glossip

Barbara & Bill Ballinger

Dawn Johnson

Jean Oppliger

The Berube Family

Barbara Anderson

Dawn Kaylor

Jeannie Gillett

The Cramer Family

Barbara Hughston

Deborah Hefter

Jeffrey Smith

The Manfredi Family

Barron Harley

Deby Estel

Jenine Lurie

The Rothman Family

Becky Heinzen

Denise McKeever

Jennifer Bartlau

Thelma Machlin

Benjamin Edwards

Diane DeWitte

Jennifer Bradshaw

Tim Hornig

Beth Billstein

Dick & Shar Pulice

Jennifer Long

Tom & Nancy Hawkins

Betty Lou Kelly

Dolores Haegeman

Jenny Lamott

Trent Brooks

Betty Pappas

Donna Cassano

Jill Boyd

Valerie Wallace

Brent Collins

Donna Wadsworth

Jim Guerinot

Vanessa Handy & Family

Brett Flaherty

Dora Hrountas

Joann Ekblad

Velma Hopkins

Brett Walker

Ed Gonzales

Jodi Levine

Veneraxion Industries

Brian Black

Eileen Callahan

John Frink

Vincent Jackson

Brooke Figge

Elaine Brown

John K. Adams

Wayne & Susan Townsend

Camila Duarte

Elisabeth Luu Li

John Wenzel

Weiss Family

Carey Robb

Elise Streeter

Josh Eagan

Wilhoit Family

Carlene Myers

Eric Huber

Joyce Kiel

Wolfson Family

Carrie Weaver

Eric Paine

Judy Lynch

Wyland Foundation

Carson Bradshaw

Faye Cartmale

Judy Tyler

CeCe Pollin

Frances Popadak

Julie Pearce

$50-$99

Celestine Arndt

Gail Oakley

Julie Ralls

Moms In Charge

Charles Cowdrey

Georgina Seeck

Kate Bartholomew

Alice Schreiner

Charles Lenz

Gerald Espinosa

Kathleen Haydon

Jeff Wilson

Charlotte Kenison

Geri Guilbert

Kathleen McCarthy

Lorraine Walsh

Chelsea Barker & Matt

Gia Lugo-Overton

Kathy Blue

Glenn Clarke

Kathy DeYeso

Marjorie Austin

Fritz-Mauer

Mary Baker

Chris Amodeo

Greg Goran

Kerry & Dean Cassill

Patricia Holloway

Chris Bretall

Hannah Day Sullivan

Kim Beauchaine

Suzi Black

Christine Ames

Heather Ewalt

Kim Huxman

The Bowery Girl

Christine Nakashiba

Heidi Figge

Kimberly Stanick

Adrian Barry

Cindi Sanchez

Holly Yokoyama

Kirsten Allred

Alan Gruber

Cindy Ortiz

Ingrid Beaty

Kirsten Hart

Alexis Stavropoulos

Claudia Alfaro

Jacque Magner

Kristin Kerrigan

Alison Diaz

Corey Henson

Jami Vincent

LAB Holding, LP

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9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS $50-$99 CONT.

Mayra Noveron

PJ Mann

Taylor Pattinson

Larry & Jane Edelman

Megan Delgleize

Rachel Hulan

Teresa Howe

Larry & Lana Canova

Megan McCarver

Randy Daniels

Teri Brudnak

Laura Cialdella

Melanie Cherney

Richard Bent

Teri Eichenauer

Laurel Rothschild

Melinda Morgan-Katsonis

Richard Stowe

Terry Otsuki Kwa

Lauren Fieberg

Mia Gamble

Rick & Nancy Clayton

Theresa Hauber

Lauri Thrupp

Michael Griffin

Riley & Jessica Pratt

Thuan An Nguyen

Laurie Tuttle

Michael Kazzi

Roger Kinoshita

Tinka Hrountas

Leah Falahee

Michael Newton

Roger Taft

Tirzah Schmaltz

Leslie Davis

Michele Douglas

Roian Atwood

Tom Newmark

Leslie Nelson

Michell Bretall

Rosemary Wheeler

Tony & Becky Dominguez

Lin Thomas

Michelle Higley

Ruthanna Bridges

Tracie & Brian Sullivan

Linda S. Thomas

Michelle Larson

Ruthe Spear

Tupper Spring

Linda Sweatt

Michelle Magno

Ryan Hunter

Tyler & Reese Simmons

Linda Vangsness

Michelle Montgomery

Ryan Hunter

Venita Siegel

Linda Webber

Michelle Svoboda

Sabrina Van Engelen

Virginia Rupe

Lisa Marks

Mike & Kim Schmidt

Sandella

Warren J. Ramsey

Lisa Redmond

Monica Crawford

Sandi Hambric

Wendy Lesovsky

Livi Kerszenbaum

Montgomery Norton

Sandy Cestari

Yolanda Staff

Liz Schmidt

Mucio Vidales

Scott Sporleder

Yoshihiro Tome

Lora Allison

Nancy Eaton

Sean Matsler

Ziad & Mary Mazboudi

Loretta Lewis

Nancy Mannix

Shannon Thurston

Zora Gentile

Lori andrews

Natalie Bhattanayoo

Sharon Adams

M E. Chacon

Natalie Stewart

Sharyn Trumm

$25-$49

Makenzie Julius

Neil Clemmons Harrison

Shivaji & Trisha Deshmukh

Alana Gebhart

Mandl O’Connor

Nicholas Janousek

Si Teller

Renee Hernandez

Margaret Kuhn

Nicole King

Soo Malchow

Christa Angelo

Maria Murray

Nisreen Azar

Staci Lawley

Nightingale

Marianne Susong

Noël More

Stephanie Ayres

Santa Monica Seafood

Marilee Movius

Nona Reimer

Steve - Caleb Works Carter

Steve Carter

Marillee Carroll

Noreen Wooten

Steve Apple

Rice Recycling Corp.

Mark & Yoshi O’Connor

Olivia Surrena

Steven & Irma Fry

Christina Gray

Marlene Ruderman

Pamela Cotten

Sue Jackson

David Ritchie

Mary Anne Robinson

Pamela Gerken

Susan & Ryan Marx

Robin Scott

Mary Beth Buckles

Pamela Henriksen-Osuna

Susan Anon

Terrill & Timea Agnew

Mary Engstrom

Pat Ryan

Susan Cuchessi

Abbie Mood

Mary Jane Foley

Patricia & Guy Butterfield

Susan Grosfeld

Michelle Goodfriend

Mary Kaye & David

Paul Crim

Susan Lynne Winterhoff

Pamela Ragland

Penny Herrick-Dressler

Susan Peters Carleson

Donna Williams

Marylin J Wood

Penny Smith

Susana Jones

Abby & Charlie Sahm

Maureen Gebelein

Peter Bergmann

Susie Hughes

Abby Wowchuk

May Chiu

Pilar M Hattori

Suzi Tompkins

Alex Anderson

Ashkennze

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9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS $25-$49 CONT.

Diana Pardee

Jeff Higley

Lauren Moss

Alex Balazs

Diane Roach

Jennifer Byerly

Lauren Reiterman

Alexandra Antonopoulos

Diane Smith

Jennifer Gonzalez

Lauren Robinson

Alyssa Duhe

Eileen Vansell

Jennifer Kohn

Leah Jolly

Amina Horozic

Elise Higley

Jennifer Legault

Leanna Doring

Ana Rothwell

Ellen O’Bryant

Jennifer Sievers

Linda Bell

Andrew Klimkowski

Ellie Blaisdell

Jennnifer Lynd

Lisa Samel

Ann Perry

Elliott Marks

Jenny Vidal

Lisa Zawaski

Anna Lodder

Elliott Powers

Jeremy Black

Lori Whalen

Anthony Wodarck

Elsie Billy

Jessica Leonard

Lynne Hunt

Audra Bardsley

Emily Venable

Jim Dockstader

Maggie Owens

Austin Moore

Eric Antonini

Jim Ziegon

Mallory Burden

Bailey Finnnan

Erica Rubin

Joan Barrera

Margaret Waite

Barbara Cole

Erik Roberts

Joanna Julian

Marie Davis

Barbara Woolner

Erin Lannon

Joey Santley

Marilyn Egler

Betty Limbeng

Estee Huff

John Clarke

Mary Rence

Bill Roley

Evan Little

Joo Smith

Matthew Honey

Billy DeJong

Fatimer Aydin

Judy Curry

Maxine Clarke

Bonnie Baskin

Faye Baglin

Judy Johnson

Megan Moore

Brian Seveland

Frank Fischel

Julie Johnson

Megan Schley

Bronwyn Bradshaw

Frank Scura

June Little

Meghan Barron

Bruce Oliver

Gail Levy

Kacy Spurny

Meghan Kelly

Caitlin Close

Gail Roy

Karen Reynosa

Melissa Beauchamp

Cameron Davis

Gary & Laurie Headrick

Kate Jeremias

Michael Meyer

Carole Taub

Geri Siragusa

Katherine Gaston

Michelle Madriz

Caroline Colesworthy

Gigi Goldberg

Kathleen Sandoval

Michelle Telson

Cathy Morehead

Glenda Menges

Katie & Wyatt

Mike & Trish Drummy

Celia Kutcher

Hannelore Inman

Charles Alban

Heather Dunbar

Katy Muenter

Mike Fink

Christine Flashman

Holly DePfyffer

Kegan Neill

Mike Galardo

Claire Manning

Idelis & Kyle Thordarson

Kelly Hutchinson

Millay Kogan

Kelly Thomas

Millie Tam

Clayton Colaw

Herrera

Clavadetscher

Mike Davis

Cody Lee

Ira & Barbara Marks

Kelly Yrarrazaval

Monica Mukai

Colin Israel

Irene Messerli

Kenzie Olson

Morrison

Colleen Premer

Jaime Becktel

Kevin Braden

Oona O’Hara

Darla Magana

James Dockstader

Kevin Murphy

Paolo Schouten

David Posey

Janette Wright

Kristi Kindred

Patricia Gaston

Dawnielle Gordon

Janice Wiest

Krysla S. Grothe

Paul & Sue Jarecky

Deborah Christensen

Janine Mccusker

Larry Harrison

Paul Fulbright

Debra Kettler

Jarrod Muenter

Laura Camp

Permaculture Institute

Demure Maciel

Jason Yaw

Laura Fairchild

Rama Nayeri

Denise G Morrison

Jean Connelly

Laura Griggs

Randall & Debbie Adams

53


9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS $25-$49 CONT.

Susie Beifuss

Drake Family Farms

New Leaf Paper

Raphael Seeck

Suzanne McCardle

EcoScraps Compost

Newport Beach Winery

Rebecca Schanna

Tana Trost

Edward Sellers

Noah Blom ARC

Reem Khalil

Ted & Deborah Marolf

Vineyard & Wines

Organic Tree Juice Bar

Rejoy Geehan

Teri Delcamp

Erik Phillips

Oso Libre Winery

Renee Therese Plasky

Teri Woods

Erika Tucker

Pacific Almonds

Richard Gardner

The Harney Family

Europa Specialty

Palumbo Family

Riley Copeland

Thomas Kennon

Sausages

Winery

Robert Blommer

Tim & Janet Kane

Fruit Tree Planting

Pascal Olhats Pascal’s

Robert Goldman

Tobias Coffman

Foundation

Paul Buchanan Primal

Robert Hagstrom

Todd Sarkaria

Gina Galvan & Robert

Alchemy

Robert Karlsson

Tom Williams

Zuetell

PCH Sheet Metal &

Robert Layton

Truly Living Well

Greg Daniels Haven

A/C, Inc.

Robert Smith

William Anderson

Collective

Plant Depot

Robinson

Greenerprinter

Rainbow Ranch Farms

Rose Bank

IN-KIND SUPPORT

Ground Effect Wine

Red Willow Group

Rose McCarthy

AoSA LLC

Company

Renee’s Garden Seeds

Ross Teasley

Armstrong Nursery Azmin

Guayaki

Richard Mead

Sam Murray

Ghahreman

Hidden Haven Farms

Rob Wilson Montage

Sam Rohloff

Sapphire

Homegrown Meats

Resort

Samantha McIntosh

Beach Blossom Honey

Jenny Ross 118

Ryan Adams 370

Sammy Tookey

Bonterra Vineyards

Degrees

Common

Sandi Hambrick

BREAD Artisan Bakery

Jeremy Black

Ryan O’Melveny Wilson

Sandra Nealon

Briar Rose Winery

John Cuevas

Sara Canett

Carlsbad Aquafarm

Justin Miller Pizzeria

Sadie Rose Baking Co.

Sara Corbett

Casey Overton Loft at

Ortica

Sambazon

Sarah Drexler

Montage Resort

Justin Monson

Santa Monica Seafood

Sarah Roby

Cathy McKnight

Justin Vineyards &

Schaner Farms

Scott & Laura Murray

Cook Pigs Ranch

Winery

Scott Brandon LinX

Scott McGregor

Chomp Chomp Nation

Kangen Green

Shannon Latting

Scott Roby

Food Truck

Five Crowns & SideDoor

Kean Coffee

Simply Straws

Scott Sebastian

Clif Bar

Klean Kanteen

Sierra Soil

Serafina Benjamin

CR&R

La Sirena Grill

Soledad Goats Goat

Shauhwa Jones

Creekside Apple Ranch

Lowe’s

Cheese

Shayne Fair

Curt Campbell

Makana Ltd

South Bay Salt Works

Sheena Tran

Da-Le Ranch

Matt Tobin True Foods

South Coast Farms

Shirley Sukhanil

David Pratt Brick

Kitchen

Supery Winery

Solstice B. Hurst

Pizzeria

Meridian Graphics

Tablas Creek Vineyard

St. Margaret’s School

Dig Corp.

Michael David Winery

Tamarind of London

Stan Pownall

Doheny Plumbing

MM Livestock

Tenerelli Orchards

Stuart Meece

Dory Fleet

Myriad Harbor

Terrace Hill Orchards

Susana Dutton

Dr. Bronner’s Soaps

New Belgium Brewing

The Cellar

54


9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS IN-KIND SUPPORT

Buzz Roberts

Elliot Schwartz

Jodi Else

Crow Bar & Kitchen

Cameron Keast

Elliott Marks

Joel Maclean

Ventura Limoncello

Cameron McElroy

Emily McVey

Joel Waidell

Vicki Marks

Carmela Frial

Eric Gates

Joey Tan

VR Green Farms

Caroline Kubin

Erin Lannon

John Clarke

Weiser Family Farms

Carrie Weaver

Erin Toomey

John Senften

Whole Foods Market

Catherine Dao

Gabriella Guidry

Johnny Schillereff

Winchester Cheese Co.

Catherine O’Hare

Garret Beck

Jorden Segraves

YogaWorks

Celina Stratton

George Cuzakis

Josh Davis

Yves & Elyssa Fournier

Celine Marill

Greg White

Joshua Frial

Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine

Chacon Family

Hannah Clarke

Julia Estrada

Zotovich Cellars

Charlene Chand

Harry Helling

Julien De Rubia

Charlene Huddleston

Heather Hart

Juliet Norton

VOLUNTEERS

Cheri Messerli

Heidi York

Kacee Spurny

Aaron Priceman

Chris Skura

Henna Pithia

Kaferin Wendie Aceves

Abby Wowchuk

Christiana Nibbe

Huy Dang

Kameron Campbell

Aiden Lutz

Christine Maclean

Ines Cuzakis

Kanica Kanica

Alan Oswald

Christine Nakashiba

Irene Messerli

Kate Donohue

Alexis Autenreith

Christopher Keys

Isabelle Teraoka

Kate Roberts

Alexis Funk

Clay Finn

Jackson Lanigan

Kathleen Kaiser

Alice Kim

Clayton Colaw

Jacob Luke

Katie Hibbard

Ally Rugge

Colleen Cowell

Jacqueline Meehan

Kay Taygen

Alyssa Duhe

Cristina Cherpas

Jacqui Jacqui Neuharth

Kayla Selenski

Amy Howrigan

Crysta Dickson

Jamie Villa

Kelly Porter

Andrea Gates

Dale Howe

Jamie Welsh

Kelso Bradshaw

Andrew Klimkowski

Danarene Kalina

Jan Harris

Ken Friess

Anna Rager

Daniel Golly

Jane Edelman

Kenneth Glowacki

Annie Caringella

David Cook

Jaymee Vise

Kevin Crider

Ashley Cronk

David Erikson

Jeannie Gillett

Kevin Fisher

Ashley Schenkl

David Marks

Jeff Kirschenbaum

Kevin Fisher

Ashlyn Fay

David Rager

Jen Casey-Senften

Kim Helling

Austin Moore

Deborah Gruber

Jenna Luke

Kim Krantz

Azita Salam

Dee White

Jennifer Cheng

Kim Wiig

Azmin Gherheman

Derek Sabori

Jennifer Jones

Kimberly Portillo

Bain Parenteau

Devin Caringella

Jenny Bradshaw

Kirschenbaum Family

Bella Bushner

Diane Wyzga

Jess Johnston

Kirsty Hibbard

Bobby Ibarra

Dolores Dang

Jessica Else

Kristen Lucks

Brandon Cain

Dominique Hieb

Jessica Koenen

Kurtis Rattay

Bridget Cuevas

Donald Valachi

Jessica Pratt

Lancia Rajuwayagaun

Bridget Lanigan

Doug Armstrong

Jessie Mandel

Lark Murrow

Bronwyn Bradshaw

Doug Hibbard

Jill Thomas

Larry Casner

Bruce Matsui

Doug Pixley

Jocelle Tade

Laura Freese

55


9 / SUPPORT

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

OUR FUNDERS VOLUNTEERS CONT.

Rebecca Noble

Lauren Cramer

Richard Rook

Leo Hijikata

Riley Pratt

Leslie Nelson

Rita Howe

Lisa Goff

Roian Atwood

Loretta Hord

Ron Rodarte

Lucian Toma

Rose McCarver

Lyrssa Tade

Roy Heine

Manuella Melchert

Ryan Almich

Marcel Pufal

Ryan Wilson

Marco Ruiz

Samantha Hoffman

Mari Husted

Sandy Davis

Maria Murray

Scott Hemsley

Marillee Carroll

Shaheen Sadeghi

Marin Vaughn

Shannon Clarke

Mark Gammell

Shannon Cook

Mary Tilton

Shannon Latting

Matthew Henderson

Sharon Reft Haas

Max Chacon

Sherri Worth

Max Isles

Stacey Anderson

Megan Moore

Stacey Blaschke

Michael Laux

Steve Messerli

Michael Phan

Steve Stratton

Michelle Douglas

Susan Cihelka

Molly Guldin

Susan Townsend

Molly Guldin

Talia Samuels

Mona Shah Anderson

Taylor Hatch

Nevin Spralja

Terry Becker

Nicole Davis

Trinh Thai

Nicole Sutherland

Troy Betterly

Nikki Heib

Tyler Brooks

Nikki Wilson

Valerie Fryer

Nisreen Azar

Vanessa Handy

OJ Gause

Vicki Marks

Olivia Leland

Yasmine Maize

Paul Crim

Yasmine Maize

Paul Hernandez

Ziad Mazboudi

Paula Cook Rachel Parentaeu Rachel Trujillo Rager Family Randy Davis

56


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

1.

The Water Shed, 2013

5.

Tools For Change, 2009

2.

Green Feast, 2012

6.

We Are Earth Day, 2012

3.

Our First Garden, 2009

7.

The Food Lab, 2013

4.

Community Table, 2013

2008–2014

57


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

58


10 / FUTURE GOALS

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

FUTURE GOALS The world is facing radical environmental change, and every person is responsible for its future. The Ecology Center aims to awaken residents of cities and towns around the country to the promise of healthy homes and communities by harnessing our current success to create a larger movement and galvanize communities beyond Orange County. We are exploring ways to expand our activities to a scale that is required to build a national movement. With this realization, The Ecology Center desires to share our vision, social enterprise model, and organizational best practices in order to activate a larger community of people working to achieve similar goals of sustainability. Our goal is to expand into urban centers throughout the country, developing a national movement for community impact and sustainability.

59 59


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

60


11 / GRATITUDE

THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

GRATITUDE The Ecology Center is thankful to our partners, members, volunteers, family and friends for your commitment to our mission. Our tremendous growth and accomplishments in the last six years are a direct result of your contributions. We recognize and honor the generosity of all of our givers and we look forward to continuing our collaborations with you. With your help, change isn’t just possible. It’s inevitable. Together, we transform the community and elevate and sustain the health of our environment.

61 61


THE ECOLOGY CENTER

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

Olla in Veggie Box, 2014 Community Table, 2012 We Are Earth Day Festival, 2011 Handmade: A Maker’s Market, 2014 Seed Ball Making Station, 2014

62



THE ECOLOGY CENTER

IMPACT REPORT

2008–2014

32701 Alipaz St. San Juan Capistrano, California 92675 (949) 443-4223 TheEcologyCenter.org

64


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