San Diego Foundation (SDF) and the nonprofit San Diego Community Power are leading efforts to build a sustainable region by investing $1.6 million in clean energy and workforce development projects through a collaborative grant program.
Launched in March 2023, the Community Clean Energy Grant Program, primarily funded by San Diego Community Power and administered by SDF, has addressed a diverse array of community needs. Grant awards range from $25,000 for Go Greenish, a student-led project measuring outdoor air pollutants at public schools in underserved communities, to $100,000 for Hammond Climate Solutions Foundation to build a solar energy project at Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center.
Empowering Communities With Clean Energy
Over two years, $390,000 in grants in 2023 was followed by more than $1.2 million in 2024 to fund initiatives that emphasize environmental equity, education, and resilience. Some of the notable projects include:
- United Women of East Africa Support Team: A six-week energy education program that promotes sustainable behaviors and reduces energy costs for low-income households. One participant, Bieza, shared, “The climate change workshops stirred in me a drive to want to do my part in helping the environment. The workshops showed how minor tweaks in our lifestyle choices can make a great impact.”
- GRID Alternatives San Diego: Twenty single-family clean energy installations planned for communities of concern, paired with hands-on workforce training opportunities. A trainee noted, “These projects gave me the experience I needed to pursue a career in clean energy.”
- Groundwork San Diego Chollas Creek: An energy education initiative to enhance home efficiency, improve air quality, and expand awareness about the benefits of sustainable living in underserved communities.
- SBCS: Creating solar industry career pathways for underserved youth, empowering them to lead sustainable lives.
- SunCoast Market Co-op: Supporting South County’s first consumer-owned food cooperative while advocating for sustainable practices.
- La Mesa Park & Recreation Foundation: Introducing electric vehicle charging stations at a city park while advocating for clean, affordable alternatives. An attendee shared, “Learning about electric tools gave me confidence to make the switch from gas-powered tools.”
- Ocean Discovery Institute: Engaging more than 450 City Heights seventh graders in hands-on learning experiences about climate change impacts and solutions.
- La Maestra Foundation: Running after-school and summer enrichment programs that provide at-risk and low-income youth with leadership and life skills.
- Climate Action Campaign: Promoting inclusive, community-centered development through its work with the Refugee and Immigration Cultural Hub in City Heights.
- MAAC Project: Supporting the Electric Vehicle Access Program to reduce emissions and improve access to EV technology in underserved areas. One participant said, “With the help of a mini grant, I transitioned to an electric vehicle and now save $40 per month on payments.”
- San Diego350: Piloting a program to engage teachers and students in South Bay communities on clean energy’s role in environmental health.
- I Am Green: Implementing a Weatherization & Energy Equity program to improve energy efficiency in communities heavily impacted by poverty, incarceration, and environmental injustice.
- In Good Company: Expanding climate justice education programs to inspire participants to implement and advocate for clean energy solutions in their communities.
Building Resilient Communities
The SDF Climate Initiative has been at the forefront of addressing climate challenges since 2006, funding more than 200 projects and 55 research studies. Focused on equity, the initiative prioritizes support for communities most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures and air pollution.
Programs like Casa Familiar’s Casa Verde Program showcase this commitment. By providing internships and workshops, participants are equipped with tools to advocate for sustainable practices. One intern reflected, “The program gave me real-life work experience while helping me understand the challenges our community faces.”
A Call to Action
Environmental nonprofits make up only 2% of the more than 12,000 nonprofits in the San Diego region and often operate with limited resources. Supporting these organizations is crucial for achieving long-term sustainability.
San Diego Foundation’s Fifty & Forward Campaign is addressing critical community needs—including education, family stability, and the environment. By donating, you can help ensure a San Diego where clean air, water, and thriving green spaces are accessible to all.
Together, we can protect our natural resources and preserve our quality of life for generations to come. Learn how you can support the SDF Climate Initiative and the Fifty & Forward Campaign.
