WHO
WE ARE
CRC’s work stems from recognition of the fact that in the Bay Area under-resourced communities are disproportionately vulnerable to climate change impacts. Since 2016, Climate Resilient Communities has been on the ground learning the specific needs of residents in diverse, under-resourced communities in East Palo Alto and Belle Haven.
Cultivating
Environmental Awareness While Helping Local Residents With Their Voice
At Climate Resilient Communities, we seek to empower community voices, including youth voices, to implement frontline and locally-led climate solutions for unity, resilience and justice that result in immediate & tangible improvements in the lives of our residents.
By building stronger alliances between residents, schools, local government programs and community-based organizations, this work creates resilience against climate-related stresses such as sea-level rise and economic instability.
Our Team.
With renewed resolve, we are passionate and excited for the work ahead, and we are honored to have you alongside us on this environmental justice journey towards community resiliency.
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Hope Saena
Meet Our Board
Climate Resilient Communities is grateful to the service of its Board of Directors, comprised of local resident experts, advocates, and leaders.
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Board Member
Noelle Chambers
Vice President of Conservation at Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST), overseeing implementation of protecting biodiversity, foster climate resilience, and increase equitable access.
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Board Chair
Jerry Hearn
Founding member of both the San Francisquito Watershed Council and the San Mateo County Fish & Wildlife Advisory Committee, as well as founding board chair of Acterra & Peninsula Conservation Center Management Council.
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Board Member
Pamela D. Jones
45-year resident of Menlo Park living in the Belle Haven neighborhood. She is a member of Menlo Park Residents for Civic Engagement (formerly Good Governance) and former School Board Member of the Ravenswood City School District.
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Board Member & Secretary
Iliana Nicholas
Leads the CANDO ADU program, a program centered on assisting East Palo Alto homeowners with accessory dwelling units. Previously worked in environmental justice around climate resilience and adaptation planning.
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Board Member
Joel Valencia
CEO & Founder of Evergreen Collective with 10 years of success in fundraising, programs services, advocate for under-resourced communities, and bringing people together to create scalable, community-centric solutions.
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Board Member & Treasurer
Elliott Wright
Executive Director of Hidden Villa, having previously served as Executive Director at Environmental Volunteers, Campaign Director of the Northern Sierra Partnership, and with The Nature Conservancy.