Join the Fight: How You Can Become a Climate Steward with the Community Environmental Council Amid Funding Cuts

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is looking for passionate individuals to join its Climate Stewards Environmental Course.

This course offers a unique opportunity for residents along the Central Coast to lead local efforts in combating climate change.

Given recent government funding cuts to non-profits, the CEC recognizes the urgency of building a community of climate champions to protect our environment.

A current participant will share their experience, highlighting the value of the certification course. Additionally, a CEC member will discuss the potential effects of budget cuts on the organization’s initiatives.

The CEC’s vision is to inspire a wave of climate action that spreads throughout the community. They are notably the first non-profit in the California Central Coast to offer this certification program, in collaboration with the UC Environmental Stewards program.

Kathi King, the course instructor and CEC’s Director of Outreach and Education, emphasized the importance of grassroots action: “If you’ve been waiting for a chance to make a difference, that time is now! Our program is designed to connect and inspire people to take real action.”

The Spring 2025 course will run weekly from April 16 to June 4, 2025. Each session combines online learning with in-person field trips. Participants can expect engaging activities, discussions, and hands-on projects that will deepen their understanding of climate issues and solutions.

According to a recent survey by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), over 60% of Americans are concerned about climate change. This statistic underscores why programs like the CEC’s Climate Stewards are crucial for empowering individuals to take meaningful action.

Throughout the course, participants will work on a personal stewardship project. Past projects have successfully integrated climate initiatives into schools, local governments, and various organizations. Graduates frequently carry their newfound knowledge into professional and volunteer efforts to further climate action.

Maureen Ellenberger, a previous Climate Steward, shared her experience: “Becoming a Climate Steward builds your credibility in climate work and connects you with others eager to learn and address the climate crisis.” Her project involved developing bilingual curriculum materials for schools to introduce students to climate careers and link them with professionals in the field.

The course costs $350, which covers classes, field trips, and program fees. Financial aid is available, ensuring that no interested participants are turned away due to cost.

Discover more about CEC’s Climate Stewards program [here](https://cecsb.org/climate-stewards).

The CEC is dedicated to creating effective solutions to the climate crisis, teaching communities to achieve ambitious zero carbon goals, and fostering resilience against climate impacts. Founded in 1970, the CEC continues to make a significant impact on the California Central Coast through innovative programs aimed at promoting clean energy, sustainable food systems, and reducing plastic waste. Learn more about their work and achievements at [CECSB.org/impact](http://cecsb.org/impact).

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