AB 2465 Passed Forward by Senate Natural Resources Committee

Logan Patton • June 26, 2024

OBA Executive Director Charles Thomas Speaks in Support of Bill AB2465

In a significant step towards advancing equity and sustainability in agriculture and conservation, Charles Thomas, Executive Director of Outward Bound Adventures, recently spoke on the Senate floor in support of AB 2465. This bill, which successfully passed out of the Senate Natural Resources Committee, aims to broaden the scope of support for socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers, and organizations.

“People of color have grown tired of endorsing a system where we play a small role that keeps us powerless. AB 2465 will be an instrument of equity, a tool that will promote a presence for us and franchise us into a structure not built for or by us,” Thomas stated.

Generally, the funding gap between diverse and white-led organizations is clear and systemic. For example, Black and Latino nonprofit leaders receive only about 4% of philanthropic funding in the U.S., though they make up approximately 10% of nonprofit leadership nationwide. According to a Bridgespan analysis, the unrestricted net assets of black-led organizations are 76% smaller than their white-led counterparts, and their average percentage of revenue was less than half.

AB 2465 seeks to expand the definition of socially disadvantaged groups under the Farmer Equity Act of 2017 to include descendants of enslaved persons in the United States. Additionally, the bill mandates that various state entities, including the Wildlife Conservation Board and the Department of Conservation, prioritize grant funding for socially disadvantaged organizations until January 1, 2031.

Charles’ address underscores the commitment of Outward Bound Adventures to fostering diversity and equity in outdoor and environmental education. His support for AB 2465 aligns with the organization's mission to provide nature-based experiences to underserved youth and communities, advocating for broader systemic changes that benefit all.

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Congratulations to the Environmental Restoration Team!

By Logan Patton • June 7, 2024

On Saturday, May 18th, the Flintridge Center buzzed with excitement and pride as the Environmental Restoration Team (ERT) celebrated a momentous graduation ceremony. The event, hosted by Trail Boss Porfirio Frausto and Executive Director Charles Thomas, honored the hard work and dedication of the ERT crew. The graduates, accompanied by their families, gathered to commemorate their achievements and certifications in wilderness first aid, crosscut, chainsaw, fire fuel removal, and other specialized skills. The atmosphere was festive as graduates proudly received their certifications, marking the culmination of months of rigorous training and hands-on experience. These certifications not only validate their skills but also open doors to promising careers in environmental restoration and conservation. Among the esteemed guests were Abigail Allen from the U.S. Department of Labor, District 3 councilman Justin Jones, and Jonar Rodrigo, a former member of the ERT who now serves with the US Forest Service. Their presence underscored the significance of the program and the impact it has on both individuals and the broader community. The event featured heartfelt speeches, joyous celebrations, and a palpable sense of community. Graduates shared their journeys, reflecting on the challenges they overcame and the bonds they formed. Families beamed with pride, knowing that their loved ones were now equipped with valuable skills and a strong sense of purpose. The ERT graduation at the Flintridge Center was more than just a ceremony; it was a celebration of achievement, growth, and the promise of a greener future. As the graduates embark on their next chapters, they carry with them the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to make a significant impact in the field of environmental restoration. Congratulations to the ERT graduates of 2024! Your dedication and hard work have not only earned you well-deserved certifications but have also set a standard for future cohorts. May your journey be filled with continued success and meaningful contributions to our environment.