CommUniverCity SJSU’s Growing Sustainably

$100,000

open space authority funds contributed to project

2023

project awarded

Growing Sustainably, a signature CommUniverCity SJSU program, is developing and delivering new curriculum connecting wildlife appreciation, Green STEM careers, and climate resilience to expand its programming. It is teaching 905 Central San Jose k-8th grade students living in underserved communities about local flora and fauna through urban habitat gardening. Additionally, the program is organizing grade level-appropriate environmental science career fairs using hands-on activities and field trips. Central San Jose program participants have multiple opportunities to garden, observe wildlife, learn about green STEM careers, visit the SJSU campus, enjoy natural areas, and address environmental issues relevant to them.
Award Date:
May 18, 2023
Program:
Urban Grant Program
Location:
CommUniverCity SJSU

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Martial Cottle Park

Martial Cottle Park

The Authority contributed funds towards the County’s efforts to open a new 288-acre urban park on the Martial Cottle Family Ranch. The Cottle family farmed the land for 150 years and the park reflects this agricultural history through providing land for farmers and educational activities. The park also features a trail system and several group picnic areas.

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Outdoor Environmental Education for Title One Students

Outdoor Environmental Education for Title One Students

The Authority contributed funds to Guadalupe River Park Conservancy’s field trip program that allows for inquiry-based learning. The program is committed to getting children outdoors and uses Guadalupe River Park & Gardens' river, rose garden, and orchard as an outdoor lab. The program prioritizes serving Title One students and connects them to their local environment while providing hands-on science lessons that teachers cannot deliver inside their classrooms

Students working in garden next to raised garden bed

CommUniverCity: Growing Sustainably

CommUniverCity: Growing Sustainably

The Authority grant funded the San Jose State University Research Foundation's project, a signature CommUniverCity program, that aims to create a self-sustaining food system for low-income communities in Central San Jose where each child has opportunities to garden at a school garden or urban farm in their neighborhood. The program increases awareness of the importance of eating healthy, fresh foods, and promotes environmental stewardship among low-income children and their families.