Explore the Coast

Purpose

The ability to experience the coast without fear of physical barriers, feelings of not belonging, or financial challenge is crucial to how individuals cultivate their lifelong connections with the coast. The Explore the Coast grant program seeks to provide enjoyable coastal experiences for people and communities who face challenges or barriers to accessing or enjoying the coast (“ETC Priority Communities”).

Description

The California State Coastal Conservancy announces the availability of grants to public agencies, federally recognized tribes and California Native American communities, and nonprofit organizations for programs that facilitate and enhance the public’s opportunities to explore California’s spectacular coast and San Francisco Bay shoreline through our Explore the Coast Grant Program. The ocean, coast, and beaches have long been recognized and used as spaces of joy, relaxation, and healing for many Californians. The ability to experience the coast without fear of physical barriers, feelings of not belonging, or financial challenge is crucial to how individuals cultivate their lifelong connections with the coast. Furthermore, joyful memories of the coast can organically inspire stewardship. The Explore the Coast grant program seeks to provide enjoyable coastal experiences for people and communities who face challenges or barriers to accessing or enjoying the coast (“ETC Priority Communities”). ETC Priority CommunitiesETC Priority Communities may include but are not limited to lower-income individuals and households, people with disabilities, people of color, California Native American communities, immigrant communities, foster youth, and other historically excluded communities who face societal challenges or barriers to accessing or enjoying the coast. You can use the Outdoor Equity Program Community FactFinder Mapping Tool, CalEnviroScreen Mapping Tool, or Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool. or other resources you know of to help determine if you are serving low-income communities (please note the tools linked will refer to these as a “disadvantaged” or “severely disadvantaged community”). These tools are not required, but you may consult them to help describe the community that you aim to serve. Projects should also meet one or more of the following priorities: Provide an enjoyable experience at the coast.Reduce economic, physical, operational, or societal barriers to accessing or enjoying the coast.Inspire ongoing coastal resource stewardship ethic through active learning and interactive activities.