Below is a list of projects in the Southern California Region for the 2025-2026 service year. To see Northern California Projects CLICK HERE.
Each project section includes the project name, agency name, city, the number of Fellows that will be serving in the project (“Openings”), the focus areas, and desired skills for the project. To view a full description of the project, click on the “Project Description” under the ones you are interested in.
Organization: County of Santa Barbara
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Research, Technical Writing, Communication
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The fellow would provide support to implementing the County’s 2030 Climate Action Plan and Zero Emission Vehicle Action Plan. This may involve research, writing, community engagement, grant writing and more.
The fellow would also provide support to the Santa Barbara County Regional Climate Collaborative and its various committees, initiatives and events.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The County seeks to implement policies and programs under the 2030 Climate Action Plan and Zero Emission Vehicle Plan. The fellow would provide support to various subject areas. Projects may include supporting the policy development for transportation demand management, developing an internal Electric Vehicle Charging Station Implementation manual; performing outreach, education and assistance for establishing charging stations and/or car-sharing stations. This would help to build new systems and programs to implement the County’s plans.
The County seeks to continue its management of the Santa Barbara County Regional Climate Collaborative, and its various initiatives. The Collaborative has multiple committees and holds two annual in-person events. Additionally the Collaborative facilitates two grant-funded initiatives which need coordination support.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The County of Santa Barbara encompasses 8 incorporated jurisdictions, a tribal nation and an air force base and is characterized primarily by suburban and rural settings. The County of Santa Barbara’s main offices are located in downtown Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara enjoys pleasant weather year-round, and a relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking and camping are popular. Santa Barbara also enjoys a variety of local wine, beer and food establishments.
The Sustainability Division staff are creative and resourceful and the office enjoys a friendly atmosphere. Dogs are welcome in the office too! The Sustainability Division develops and implements countywide programs and policies primarily covering climate and energy, but the Division also leads all interdepartmental and stakeholder efforts on a variety of sustainability issues such as community planning, climate adaptation, sustainable transportation, waste reduction & recycling and municipal facilities. The Fellow would have the opportunity to be exposed and involved with a variety of interest areas.
Organization: County of Santa Barbara
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Marketing, Bilingual, Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Support is needed for the County of Santa Barbara’s partnership in 3C-REN (the Tri-County Regional Energy Network), for energy efficiency programs that serve residents—and renters especially—addressing the need to provide education and outreach around DIY energy efficiency measures. Additionally, support is needed for the Resilient Central Coast campaign that seeks to empower residents to take action to reduce carbon emissions and increase resiliency.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
There are three capacity building projects that the fellow would work on for 3C-REN (the Tri-County Regional Energy Network) and the Resilient Central Coast campaign:
For 3C-REN’s Home Energy Savings program, the Fellow will coordinate offerings and partnerships with libraries throughout Santa Barbara County. 3C-REN currently offers DIY Home Energy Savings Toolkits and Induction Cooktops that library patrons can check out. In addition to managing toolkit and induction cooktop supplies, coordinating with libraries, and conducting educational presentations, the Fellow will work with partner libraries to explore and develop new opportunities to collaborate. The Fellow will also work to expand the toolkit and induction cooktop program. This may include identifying existing educational programs to which 3C-REN could add energy or sustainability content or identifying new partners and audiences for outreach and check-out opportunities. The Fellow’s work and resource development will increase 3C-REN’s capacity to serve tri-county residents—and renters especially—with energy efficiency education and tools.
The Fellow will also support 3C-REN’s Building Performance Training (BPT) and Energy Code Connect (ECC) trainings and workshops targeting current and prospective building professionals. The BPT and ECC programs host free events on a wide variety of topics relating to energy efficiency, high performance buildings, and electrification. The Fellow will have the opportunity to work with 3C-REN staff across the Tri-County to support event planning, execution, and follow-up.
Separately from 3C-REN, the fellow will support the Resilient Central Coast campaign, of which the County of Santa Barbara is a partner and offers a countywide climate action platform for residents. The goal of Resilient Central Coast is to provide every-day solutions and climate-friendly actions that empower central coast residents to reduce carbon emissions and increase resiliency. The Fellow will do work to assess the effectiveness of the campaign such as producing reports to track metrics and platform use data and evaluating engagement, with the opportunity to recommend campaign and platform changes. They will also do work to grow participation, such as conducting outreach, leading presentations and activities in the community, developing tactics to engage participants, and creating outreach materials. The Fellow’s work to assess the effectiveness of the Resilient Central Coast platform and grow participation will enable the County to better empower residents to take everyday actions to reduce carbon emissions and increase resiliency.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Santa Barbara County is blessed with beaches, mountains, farmlands, and an eclectic culture. There is an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, arts and culture, breweries, and wineries. The County is a microcosm of the country: there is a dichotomy between the more affluent, liberal south coast and the more industry-friendly north county. The structural and political challenges of climate change and climate policy are intriguing and complex.
Organization: County of Ventura
Location: Ventura, CA
Openings: FILLED
Desired Skills: Research, Technical Writing, Data Analysis, Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The County of Ventura adopted the 2040 General Plan in September 2020 and has passed eleven amendments to its regulations since 2023, including adoption of the County’s 2021-2029 6th cycle In addition, there are over 51 active long-range planning projects that address complex issues facing counties and cities in California, such as affordable housing, environmental justice, climate resilience, biological resources, land conservation, economic development, and healthy communities, among others. A unique fellowship position is available in the Housing and State Mandates section that will assist with a wide range of professional planning projects to facilitate sustainable and equitable housing opportunities in Ventura County.
Projects can range from analysis of State regulations that may impact the County, research of certain housing types (e.g. Housing Co-ops, Tiny Homes, etc.), crto facilitate housing development, and much more. Fellows that are interested in obtaining an understanding to how local governments work and what it looks like behind the development permitting processes while working on complex and current issues in California – this job is for you!
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Fellow will support the Housing and State Mandates Section with the following projects related to the County’s adopted 2021-2029 Housing Element, which may include outreach and program implementation components:
1)Research options for adding new housing types into the County’s ordinances
2)Develop public information materials and homeowner tools for affordable housing, such as Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units in the Coastal areas, special needs housing, etc.;
3) Analyze data and conduct research to prepare the state-mandated annual progress report for the State Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) and State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD);
4) Review new state legislation and develop informational materials for the public, Planning Division, and other agencies;
5) Conduct research and assist in development of a possible application for the State’s Prohousing Designation Program,
7) Assist with preparation of the County’s annual action plan pursuant to HUD funding requirements;
8) Research options for implementing a program allowing the County and neighboring cities to share their regional housing allocation.
Additionally, the Fellow may support the General Plan Implementation Section with the following projects:
1) Update County guidelines used to comply with the California Environmental Quality Act and to identify potential environmental impacts of proposed development projects;
2) Assist in development of alternative energy programs, including green building techniques and energy efficiency incentive programs;
3) Conduct public engagement efforts (e.g., workshops, stakeholder meetings, website updates) for General Plan programs including, but not limited to, energy programs and disadvantaged communities;
4) Assist in the preparation of County-initiated General Plan amendments and new web-based reports showing compliance with General Plan programs, including those related to climate action.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Ranked the best place to live by the United States Department of Agriculture in 2015, Ventura County is situated along the central California coast between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties. With a population of approximately 850,000 residents, the cities within the county retain a small-town feel and productive agricultural fields while providing convenient access to its busier, neighboring counties. Ventura County is the gateway to the Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary which is home to endangered species, sensitive habitats, and historic shipwrecks. The portion of Los Padres National Forest within Ventura County offers hiking and camping, while the Santa Monica Mountains along the coast offer mountain biking, hiking, and amazing ocean views. Because of its natural beauty, Ventura County is frequently a filming location from movies. Ventura County is the strawberry capital of the state and home to some of California’s top beaches, championship golf courses, wine tasting, world-class dining, year-round whale watching, and a variety of recreational activities. There is a high quality of life in Ventura County, but like other coastal areas, housing costs are also relatively high.
Specifically, on the Housing and State Mandates team will be interacting with many of the County’s housing stakeholders to collaborate on project goals. This may include general public outreach, infrastructure service providers, municipal advisory groups, affordable housing developers, and farmworker housing advocacy groups.
Organization: County of Ventura
Location: Ventura, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Research, Technical Writing, Data Analysis, Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The County of Ventura adopted the 2040 General Plan in September 2020 and has passed eleven amendments to its regulations since 2023. In addition, there are over 51 active long-range planning projects that address complex issues facing counties and cities in California, such as affordable housing, environmental justice, climate resilience, biological resources, land conservation, economic development, and healthy communities, among others.
A unique fellowship position is available in the Area Plans and Resources Section that will assist with a wide range of professional planning projects that can range from the protection of biological resources, the development of community area plans, grant writing experience, GIS mapping, climate change planning, analyzing State regulations that may impact the County, etc. Fellows that are interested in obtaining professional experience in local government planning and land use while working on complex and current issues in California – this Fellowship is for you!
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A professionally diverse fellowship position is available in the County of Ventura Planning Division, Area Plans and Resources Section, to assist with capacity building in one or more of the following projects and programs:
1) Assist with the Division’s Biological Programs using a multiprong approach to improve compliance with regulations;
2) Assist with updating the County’s Area Plans for two local neighborhoods and learn how local policies are made and adopted; and
3) Support the section team in accomplishing a wide array of long range planning projects that range from coastal zoning ordinance amendments, public outreach efforts, analyzing and drafting responses to environmental review documents for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and more.
These projects support equitable public participation, protect the environment, and conserve agricultural and natural lands. The Fellow has the opportunity to work with Planning staff with data gathering and research, report writing, (including GIS maps, tables, graphs, etc.), stakeholder outreach (e.g., fact sheets, website updates, and in-person or virtual events), database design, and meeting organization and logistics.
The Fellow may support the development and implementation of one or more of the following projects: projects:
Project 1: Natural Resource Programs
• Development of Compensatory Mitigation Programs and Materials for Biological Resources
• Help develop the County’s Qualified Biologist Online, Relational Database.
• Develop Trainings and Materials for the Qualified Biologist & Locally Important
Species Programs.
• Development of a Comprehensive County Interjurisdictional Beach Management
Plan/Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan.
• Screen various community partners to award Braunton’s Milkvetch Conservation Fund money
and bring recommendation to Board of Supervisors for approval.
• Develop materials such as templates and guidance documents for County Biological
Assessments, Wildfire Vegetation Clearance in Biologically Sensitive Areas, Habitat Restoration
Plans and other mitigation documents.
• Revise and Develop County Webpages Supporting Biological Resources and Water Wise
Environmental Landscaping.
• Network and Represent the County at Local and Regional Partner Natural Resource Meetings.
Project 2: Long Range Planning
• Neighborhood Area Plan Updates (El Rio and North Ventura Ave).
While the Fellow’s primary project assignments will support the selected projects listed above, the
Fellow may also have the opportunity to support other long range planning activities as timing
dictates such as:
• Assist in the Development of Agricultural Tourism Zoning Regulations.
• Support the Implement the County’s Renewable Energy Program.
• Assist in the preparation of County-initiated General Plan amendments and web-based reports
showing compliance with General Plan programs, including those related to climate action.
• Develop Fact Sheets and Outreach Materials for Passive and Active Parks.
• Analyze and draft County comment letters for the California Environmental Quality Act
• Support sea level rise and costal hazards amendments for the Local Coastal Program.
• Other long-range tasks as assigned by the Planning Director.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Ranked the best place to live by the United States Department of Agriculture in 2015, Ventura County is situated along the central California coast between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties. With a population of approximately 850,000 residents, the cities within the county retain a small-town feel and productive agricultural fields while providing convenient access to its busier, neighboring counties. Ventura County is the gateway to the Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary which is home to endangered species, sensitive habitats, and historic shipwrecks. The portion of Los Padres National Forest within Ventura County offers hiking and camping, while the Santa Monica Mountains along the coast offer mountain biking, hiking, and amazing ocean views. Because of its natural beauty, Ventura County is frequently a filming location from movies. Ventura County is the strawberry capital of the state and home to some of California’s top beaches, championship golf courses, wine tasting, world-class dining, year-round whale watching, and a variety of recreational activities. There is a high quality of life in Ventura County, but like other coastal areas, housing costs are also relatively high.
Specifically, on the Housing and State Mandates team will be interacting with many of the County’s housing stakeholders to collaborate on project goals. This may include general public outreach, infrastructure service providers, municipal advisory groups, affordable housing developers, and farmworker housing advocacy groups.
Organization: City of Goleta
Location: Goleta, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder Engagement, Project Planning, Project Management, Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City’s Sustainability Division strives to create a healthy, resilient, and sustainable city by addressing a range of special projects and programs intended to further goals, especially with respect to renewable energy and climate resiliency. The Sustainability Division within the Planning & Environmental Review Department creates and implements long-term sustainability vision for the City and supports efforts to incorporate sustainability into core City processes and decision-making. Given that the City of Goleta faces significant threats to reliability and resiliency of the electrical grid due to its geographic location at the end of Southern California Edison’s high-voltage transmission lines, a CivicSpark Fellow would help build capacity in a variety of projects to help the City address climate action and community resilience challenges related to energy and transportation in an equitable manner. The City’s Old Town area specifically is impacted by a higher pollution burden than the rest of the City and has been identified as a Disadvantaged Community under the EPA’s CalEnviroScreen 4.0. Specific projects will be prioritized based on City Council direction following review of the Department’s Annual Work Program and time available, but address the following overarching goals:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Known to locals as the “Good Land,” the City of Goleta is a thriving community located on the south coast of Santa Barbara County, approximately 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles and just ten miles west of downtown Santa Barbara. The City stretches approximately 8 square miles along a beautiful coastline, within a narrow coastal plain of exceptional natural beauty between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
Goleta exemplifies diversity and balance in areas such as: single-family homes and multi-family apartments; new start-ups and long-established and thriving businesses; quiet neighborhood streets and smooth flowing freeways; tree canopies and wide open spaces; organic farms and high technology manufacturing; a busy Old Town commercial district, shopping centers, and lively local farmers’ markets; and diverse scenic views that include ocean and island vistas as well as the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains and foothills. The area provides for a range of opportunities for passive recreation and active sports including wine and beer tasting, hiking, cycling, bird watching, deep sea fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and cycling.
Goleta is located adjacent to the University of California, Santa Barbara, which is home to six Nobel Prize winners and is one of the leading research universities in America. As a result, the community hosts a number of high technology businesses specializing in aerospace, nanotechnology, environmental science, biochemistry, and information technology.
The current population of the City is 33,000 and the adopted General Plan allows for a build out population of approximately 38,000 by 2030. The City is racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse. The community has several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Goleta is fortunate to be served by excellent public and private primary and secondary schools that have a reputation for high academic achievement and quality instruction. The City of Goleta is a great place to live, work, and play!
Organization: California Department of Housing and Community Development
Location: Arvin, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder Engagement, Project Planning, Project Management, Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of Arvin adopted housing element was found to substantially comply with State Housing Element Law. The housing element lays down the foundation in which local governments identify strategies to accommodate their Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) objectives, collaborating closely with city staff, stakeholders, and community members to develop and execute program commitments. The fellow in this project will assist the City and surrounding areas in accessing HCD planning grant funds, and support policy and program development and planning document preparation with the City of Arvin and HCD.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The City of Arvin is a small vibrant city located in Kern County, roughly 25 miles southeast of Bakersfield. The City is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including Bear mountain and the San Joaquin Valley. The City offers affordable housing options, unique community events, and plenty of outdoor actives.
Organization: City of Santa Barbara
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Project Planning & Management, Bilingual, Stakeholder Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The project will plan, design, and implement additional bike share station installations in AB 1550 low-income areas within the City of Santa Barbara.
1. This project will implement and manage a ~$1.5 million grant-funded project to increase access to affordable public bike share for low-income residents. The project will require working with the City of Santa Barbara, local non-profit and advocacy groups, the City’s permitted bike share operator, BCycle, and other community partners and jurisdictions.
2. The City has a public bike share system that launched in 2021 and recently hit over two million miles ridden on shared bikes. Unfortunately, neither the City nor the bike share operator, BCycle, have had time or budget to really build out the low-income membership program, and low-income users continue to be limited in number. To address this issue, the project will prioritize bringing bike share infrastructure to low-income areas in the City not currently served by BCycle, and conducting robust community engagement to low-income residents to promote and facilitate low-income utilization of the public bike share system. Successful outreach to lower-income populations may be challenging, with language and general hesitation regarding the use of banks and financial institutions acting as known barriers. Siting physical bike share locations in neighborhood settings has also proven challenging in the City.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. The overarching goal of the project is to implement and promote an improved low-income bike share membership program that builds on the foundation of the existing bike share program. The City of Santa Barbara will leverage grant funding from the Clean Mobility Options (CMO) Voucher Program to expand its all-electric bike share program, specifically targeting under-resourced communities in Santa Barbara. This initiative will add more public bike share docking stations and ebikes, enhance access for low-income populations, and promote biking as a sustainable transportation option. The grant funding will fund the installation of physical bike share infrastructure in AB 1550 designated low-income areas; develop, implement, and market a robust and streamlined low-income membership process, and provide annual low-income memberships for qualifying users.
This comprehensive effort aims to address the transportation challenges faced by
under-resourced residents in Santa Barbara and foster the use of the bike share program as a sustainable, affordable, and accessible transportation option.
2. The Fellow will assist in the planning, design, and early implementation phases of the grant program, and will be involved from the start in a holistic effort to leverage grant funding to bring tangible public benefit to an underserved population.
3. Desired project outcomes are an organized, grant-compliant strategy for implementation that stays within grant budget and required timelines. The Fellow will organize project timelines and document milestones, set up required meetings, track progress and budget, plan and conduct public outreach and ultimately help locate bike share stations in low-income areas in the City.
4. The City has expertise in implementing physical bike share, but needs fresh perspective to trouble shoot effective and efficient strategies to expand low-income ridership. The available grant funding combined with a Fellow dedicated to this project seem to remove two significant barriers to improving access to low-income bike share: lack of budget, and lack of staff time to conduct outreach, market the program, and manage the reporting components of a large grant-funded project.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Santa Barbara is a small coastal City in California with many cultural and recreational amenities. We have great beaches, excellent food, endless outdoor opportunities and an interesting Downtown. USCB is ten miles to our north, and we have a Santa Barbara Community College has a campus downtown by the Waterfront, so we have a dynamic musical and cultural scene. This program will require concerted outreach to Santa Barbara’s low-income demographics and help challenge the perspective that Santa Barbara is a wealthy enclave in California. There are a lot of residents that choose to live here, and make considerable sacrifices in doing so, and this posting will expose a Fellow to many economic and planning challenges facing similarly-sized communities in the state of California.
Organization: Monterey-Salinas Transit District
Location: Monetery, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder & Community Engagement, Bilingual, Technical Writing, Communication
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) is the sole public transit operator serving all of Monterey County. The four incorporated cities in the south county are rural in nature and lack adequate transit planning resources. The Cities of Gonzales, Soledad, Greenfield and King City are growing, as housing production expands the fastest in this part of the county, but better coordination is needed to link transportation and land use policies. The Fellow will support MST’s community engagement initiatives to improve mobility in the rural south county communities. One primary challenge this project aims to address is increasing the awareness of public transit resources in south county.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Goal of the Project: A dedicated and passionate advocate to immerse in South County transit planning, community relations, and community development.
Role:
1. In person, on-site at the 4 cities twice each month
2. Attend “cafecitos” and other informal community committee meetings geared at improving economic prosperity in the rural communities
3. Monitor transit service, analyze data and suggest outreach to improve ridership
4. Serve as a liaison between cities, local community groups and MST’s customer service team for outreach events and analysis of land use and transportation policies
5. Assist with launching taxi service where none currently exists
Desired Outcomes:
An initial report will be prepared by the Fellow to outline existing transit services, including current ridership data. The Fellow will work collaboratively with MST’s planning staff to develop a Community Outreach Plan that lays out the Fellow’s schedule for the program. The Fellow will maintain a log identifying weekly outreach efforts and the number of individuals contacted. The Fellow will be asked to analyze land use and transportation policies that the four south county cities develop. A Final Report will be prepared by the Fellow and presented to MST’s board of Directors. The Final Report will note how public transit usage changed as a result of targeted community engagement. The Fellow will also present recommendations in the Final Report to ensure long-term continued success of improved mobility and dynamic community engagement in south county.
Increasing MST’s Capacity:
Because MST has a limited planning staff, the Fellow will serve as an extension of agency staff to establish and launch a permanent transit planning presence in south Monterey County. The Fellow will help MST focus its future efforts in supporting the growth and economic prosperity of the four rural communities with meaningful land use and transportation policies.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
MST serves all of Monterey County which is a tourist destination and major agricultural producer. It is located along the central coast of California with most neighborhoods within a day trip distance from Monterey Bay Aquarium, Big Sur and Pinnacles National Park. The County has distinct communities, each with their own special characteristics. MST prides itself in offering affordable transportation to the many residents of the County to connect communities, create opportunities while being kind to our planet.
Organization: City of Irvine
Location: Irvine, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Stakeholder Engagement, Community Engagement, Research
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The role will assist the City of Irvine’s Environmental Programs Division with the climate action strategy for the City. This includes but is not limited to: policy research, stakeholder outreach, data collection, program compliance, policy development. The areas of focus include building decarbonization, plastic waste reduction, organic waste recycling, renewable energy development, and more.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Irvine is one of the ten largest cities in California, with a population of just over 300,00 which doubles each weekday due to it being a job center as well. We are home to a thriving clean-tech start up community, being the HQ of multiple EV and renewable energy companies. We are also home to UC Irvine, in which we collaborate frequently around sustainability and community involvement. We are a very diverse community and a foodie’s paradise, with eight official threshold languages being spoken. In addition, 1/3 of the City is permanently dedicated to open space; there are miles of wild hiking trails as well as over 200 miles of both urban and mountain bike trails. Beach cities like Laguna Beach and Newport Beach border us to the west, you can be there in under 30 minutes.
Organization: Clean Power Alliance
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Planning, Community Engagement, Research
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The selected CivicSpark Fellow will directly support Clean Power Alliance (CPA), the state’s largest community choice aggregator (CCA), a not-for-profit electricity provider serving 35 Southern California communities with clean energy options, with three (3) new communities coming onboard in October 2025. CPA has been named the number one green power provider in the United States by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory for two years in a row. Given our large service area, our partner communities have a wide-range of priorities and service needs. CPA would benefit from the research, planning, and implementation assistance a CivicSpark Fellow can provide to help us engage with our member agencies and stakeholders to identify the programs and approaches that are the best fit for each community.
CPA’s customer programs help enhance community resilience, conserve energy, reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions, and save residents and businesses money on their electric bills. The CivicSpark Fellow will support CPA’s Customer Programs and Government Affairs teams to build out community profiles that identify potential for aligning community priorities with our programming. The CivicSpark Fellow will fill a workforce need at CPA to help track funding opportunities that our member agencies are participating in to assess which areas could be complemented by our programs. Our goal is for this tracking assistance to help highlight which agencies need CPA’s funding and technical assistance, or may require additional grant funding support. This information will be shared with other CPA communities who have not yet engaged in our customer program offerings, or other funding opportunities, to highlight how decarbonization and other sustainability projects can be implemented.
The Fellow will also support engagement efforts with our member communities and community-based organizations across the service territory to learn and share innovative approaches to decarbonization. CPA has developed partnerships with several community organizations through the Community Benefit Grant, and as the Fellow engages with each partner community they may identify other organizations that are doing work that is aligned with CPA’s mission and goals.
The CivicSpark Fellow will be a valued member of our small team, and experience first-hand our organization’s motto as we work collaboratively to decarbonize our communities: Change is electric. Together, we power potential.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The overarching goals of this project are to increase capacity to implement impactful programs for CPA customers, and to share information that will help empower all CPA member agencies envision and implement a decarbonized future for their communities.
The role of the CivicSpark Fellow will include research, comparative program analysis, report-writing, engagement with CPA staff and member agency representatives across our wide-service area, and participation in CPA and stakeholder events. A CivicSpark Fellow will assist with the following two projects:
1. Support Implementation of CPA Programs to Illustrate Benefits of Clean Energy Programming
A Fellow will augment the limited staff capacity at CPA and enhance our ability to provide better services to our customers. The Fellow will support CPA’s Energized Communities program which serves its member communities, and CPA’s Community Benefit Grant (CBG) to assist in coordination with community-based organizations helping to promote CPA’s programs.
The Fellow will assist with implementation of CPA’s Innovation Fund, ensuring the current projects are progressing and supporting the launch of the second round of funding by participating in stakeholder webinars, reviewing applications, and summarizing project status. The Fellow will also support the CBG annual funding opportunity to help engage local non-profit organizations to apply for the funding. The Fellow will help coordinate with awardees to support their participation in the program, and create metrics and analytics tracking tools in order to better understand impacts of the grants. The Fellow can expect to gain a good understanding of the grant management process and identify projects that may be scalable to other communities. The Fellow can also assist with review and assessment of the metrics collected at CPA’s public engagement events.
The Fellow will monitor several key program milestones, and support the Customer Programs team implement programs that help our customers transition to low-carbon practices that enhance resilience, equity, and economic vitality. The Fellow will participate in data assessment and program research to support metrics development for CPA’s Customer Programs and identify other measures or reporting areas that may be needed.
2. Identify Sustainability Program Best Practices for CPA’s Partner Communities
The Fellow will contribute to a database capturing the sustainability policies and funding resources CPA member agencies are currently employing, including grants, to implement decarbonization projects in their communities. The Fellow will conduct program research to identify connections to CPA’s existing programming, and highlight community needs and priorities that may lead to future programming to further decarbonization programs in CPA’s service area. This information will be shared across CPA’s teams to identify community priorities that can be supported by CPA’s programming. The Fellow can expect to become familiar with the types of decarbonization and sustainability programs being implemented throughout CPA’s service territory, and develop experience with data system management and reporting out findings to CPA management.
The best practices identified will be shared with member agencies that can benefit from lessons learned in other communities that may assist in moving their decarbonization projects forward. The Fellow can expect to strengthen project management skills, gain experience working with local governments and stakeholders across CPA’s service territory, and develop a clear understanding of how a Community Choice Aggregator (CCA) operates and the role it plays in clean energy procurement and delivery of key customer programs.
CivicSpark assistance engaging with CPA’s member agency stakeholders and key community-based organizations across our large service territory will increase agency capacity and support program implementation. The Fellow will collaborate with and support CPA staff leading customer programs, help identify areas for improvement, and highlight other program needs observed from stakeholder input and through program research.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
CPA is a not-for-profit electricity provider that invests in the communities we serve by funding programs to help customers save money, creating resiliency projects that strengthen critical infrastructure, and training the local workforce for jobs in renewable energy. We serve a broad and diverse set of communities throughout the counties of Los Angeles and Ventura, in Southern California. Each of our 38 member communities has something interesting to highlight. And the CivicSpark Fellow will have the opportunity to learn more about each community in-depth through the development of the community program profiles.
In-office work will take place in downtown Los Angeles, surrounded by everything the major downtown area has to offer. The office is close to transit and also offers free on-site parking with EV chargers.
Organization: City of Monterey Park
Location: Monterey Park, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Graphic Design, Marketing, Community Engagement, Bilingual
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of Monterey Park seeks a CivicSpark Fellow to serve as a City Communications Fellow, enhancing communication between the City and its diverse community members. The fellow will support Monterey Park’s City Manager’s Office, assisting in sharing critical information about city services, emergency preparedness, health and well-being and community engagement opportunities through various communication channels.
This project addresses local needs by increasing the City’s ability to engage multilingual and multigenerational audiences, ensuring equitable access to essential information. The fellow will assist in developing digital content, managing social media outreach and creating multilingual resources to improve civic participation and service awareness.
Key community challenges include language accessibility, digital equity, and public awareness of available services. The fellow will help implement communication strategies that address these gaps, ensuring that all Monterey Park residents—regardless of language or background—receive timely, accurate, and actionable information.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Project Title:
Engaging Monterey Park: Strengthening Public Communication for an Informed and Connected Community
Overarching Goals of the Project:
The goal of this project is to enhance the City of Monterey Park’s ability to effectively communicate with its diverse community regarding city services, emergency preparedness, health and well-being and community engagement opportunities. By improving communication strategies and accessibility, this project aims to increase public awareness and participation in city programs, ensuring all residents—regardless of language or digital literacy—have equitable access to critical information.
Role of the Fellow in the Project:
The CivicSpark Fellow will play a key role in expanding and refining the City’s outreach efforts by:
Desired Project Outcomes:
By the end of the fellowship, the following resources and deliverables will be developed:
How These Resources Will Increase the Agency’s Capacity:
These resources will significantly strengthen the City’s ability to connect with residents by improving accessibility, engagement, and efficiency in public communication. A well-developed communications strategy will ensure Monterey Park residents stay informed about city services, emergency updates, and community resources, ultimately fostering a more engaged, resilient, and informed community.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Monterey Park is a vibrant and diverse community located in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, just east of downtown Los Angeles. Known for its rich cultural heritage, thriving small businesses, and strong sense of community, Monterey Park offers residents a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience.
Our City is home to one of the most ethnically diverse populations in the country, with a strong Asian American influence reflected in its renowned culinary scene, cultural festivals and multilingual services.
Beyond its cultural vibrancy, Monterey Park is committed to civic engagement and community, creating an environment where residents feel connected and engaged. Monterey Park’s commitment to inclusive governance and innovation makes it an ideal place for CivicSpark Fellows to gain hands-on experience in public service, community outreach, and strategic communication while making a tangible impact on the lives of residents.
Organization: SBCCOG
Location: Torrance, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Collection, Stakeholder Engagement, Facilitation, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG) is a joint powers authority located in the southwest region of Los Angeles County with members of 16 cities and the South Bay portions of Los Angeles County. Members share the goal of maximizing the quality of life and productivity of the South Bay sub-region. The sub-region is diverse in geography, population, ethnicity, industry, and climate zones. Residential areas include both disadvantaged (based on CalEnviroscreen4.0 and the Healthy Places Index) and affluent communities – each with their own challenges. With much ethnic diversity, several languages are spoken.
The SBCCOG’s priorities include reducing energy costs, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, protecting air quality and public health, and adapting to extreme climate events. These priorities have previously been addressed through the development of a Sub-Regional Climate Action Plan and Adaptation Plan; assistance for member cities in developing their own CAP and vulnerability assessments; and updating the greenhouse gas emissions inventory to assess achievements. One of the main focuses of this work is implementation of energy efficiency at government facilities and other community buildings. These agencies require assistance in assessing, identifying, and implementing energy efficiency projects. Due to limited staff time and resources, these agencies need significant support. To help address this need, the SBCCOG formed a partnership with the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) and SoCalGas. Through this partnership, public agencies can access resources to help reduce energy use. The Fellow will support and manage various SoCalREN and SoCalGas energy initiatives. As a result, cities will further their climate action and adaptation planning and activities.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Fellow will work with at least 15 South Bay public agencies, including various school districts, water agencies, and the cities of Carson, El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lomita, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, and Torrance. The Fellow will engage with key stakeholders and help agencies access energy efficiency and decarbonization resources provided through the SoCalREN and SoCalGas.
Engagement, with guidance from SBCCOG staff, requires facilitating and attending meetings with agencies, helping obtain energy data and agency documents, analyzing data, providing energy efficiency options to agencies, promoting agency accomplishments, encouraging, and assisting with city participation in the South Bay Climate & Energy Awards, and working with volunteers to facilitate program delivery. Engagement may also include presentations to elected officials and high-level management.
Desired project outcomes include heightened engagement that fuels increased energy efficiency action and a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, successful completion of projects will result in increased public agency knowledge of facility energy profiles, and documentation of agency energy efficiency needs. Additionally, project outcomes will include greater city acknowledgement for energy action leadership within the South Bay.
Based on resource restraints facing our regional public agencies, the work of the CivicSpark Fellow will increase the South Bay’s advancement toward energy efficiency goals and implementation, as laid out in the Sub-Regional CAP and Adaptation Plan. The Fellow will facilitate the offering of various energy programs and services that regional public agencies would not otherwise receive.
The CivicSpark Fellow will engage with key stakeholders and help agencies access energy efficiency and decarbonization resources provided through the SoCalREN. Commercial initiatives and public sector programs will be promoted by the Fellow throughout the service term.
In addition, the Fellow will prioritize helping disadvantaged communities access advanced SoCalREN services beyond basic energy efficiency support such as residential direct install of energy-efficient electric appliances to ensure that these communities are not left behind with the changing energy landscape. Disadvantaged communities are identified through CalEnviroscreen 4.0.
Building on South Bay Cities Council of Governments past initiatives, this upcoming program year will be centered around determining cool surfaces feasibility for municipal facilities, benchmarking building energy use in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, and facilitating greater access to energy efficiency resources for agencies in the South Bay, including disadvantaged communities. The Fellow will assist with vulnerability assessments to help target energy efficiency incentive programs for underserved communities. This year’s Fellow will also focus on agency and special districts outreach, technical agency support, data collection, agency SoCalREN enrollment, and data analysis.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Serving with the SBCCOG will provide opportunities to work with stakeholders across various public agencies, utilities, and non-profits in Southern California. Networking activities are abundant, along with the opportunity to develop new skills. The fellow will leave the service year with personal references and projects under their belt to add to a professional portfolio.
The South Bay region is an interesting place to live and work due to its economic and cultural diversity as well as its varying geography – inland, coastal, and hillside communities. Local neighborhoods and towns have unique styles and a variety of food, museums/historical sites, cultural activities, and recreation areas.
Organization: SBCCOG
Location: Torrance, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Graphic Design, Stakeholder Engagement, Community Engagement, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG) is a joint powers authority in the southwest region of Los Angeles County with members of 16 cities and the South Bay portions of Los Angeles County. Members share the goal of maximizing the quality of life and productivity of the South Bay sub-region. The sub-region is diverse in geography, population, ethnicity, industry, and climate zones. Residential areas include both disadvantaged (based on CalEnviroscreen 4.0) and affluent communities – each with their own challenges. With much ethnic diversity, several languages are spoken.
In 2003, the SBCCOG created the South Bay Environmental Services Center (SBESC) with the hopes of reducing energy costs and sharing sustainable resources with the South Bay sub-region. The SBESC’s mission is to serve the subregion’s constituents as the central hub for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, renewable energy, and transportation by providing information, programs, projects, and strategies as well as resources to cities, businesses, property owners, and residents. These objectives are met through collaboration with partner agencies who come together to develop, implement, and promote programs. The SBCCOG’s partnerships include Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, SoCal Gas, Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN), Water Replenishment District, and West Basin Municipal Water District. Through these partnerships, the SBCCOG and the SBESC provide information, programs, projects, strategies, and resources to cities, businesses, property owners, and residents. The Fellow will support and manage various community engagement and communication initiatives. As a result, these groups will be better informed of opportunities to contribute to climate action and adaptation efforts in their communities.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Under the direction of the SBCCOG, the Fellow will work with at least 15 South Bay public agencies, including utility and water agencies, sanitation districts, County of Los Angeles, and the cities of Carson, El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lomita, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, and Torrance. The Fellow will engage with key stakeholders and conduct outreach to help cities, property owners, businesses, and residents access sustainability resources provided through the SBCCOG SBESC program and many partnerships. As a result, the Fellow will determine the key needs and gaps in the SBCCOG’s outreach and engagement efforts. The Fellow’s primary responsibilities will include:
At the end of the service term, the desired project outcomes are:
Under the SBESC, program staff work with partner agencies to implement environmental programs with cities both large and small. In doing so, smaller communities such as the cities of Rolling Hills or Lomita that are unable to prioritize sustainability communications due to cost and staff capacity can also achieve energy and water savings.
Additionally, the CivicSpark Fellow will help agencies with disadvantaged communities to access sustainability resources to help ensure that these communities are not left behind. Disadvantaged communities are identified through CalEnviroscreen 4.0. Through these efforts, the CivicSpark Fellow will help create equal access to sustainability resources to increase the South Bay’s health and well-being, as well as to reduce its environmental footprint.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Serving with the SBCCOG will provide opportunities to work with stakeholders across various public agencies, utilities, and non-profits in Southern California. Networking activities are abundant, along with the opportunity to develop new skills. The fellow will leave the service year with personal references and projects under their belt to add to a professional portfolio.
The South Bay region is an interesting place to live and work due to its economic and cultural diversity as well as its varying geography – inland, coastal, and hillside communities. Local neighborhoods and towns have unique styles and a variety of food, museums/historical sites, cultural activities, and recreation areas.
Organization: SBCCOG
Location: Torrance, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Facilitation, Stakeholder Engagement, Community Engagement, Marketing
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The South Bay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG) is a joint powers authority located in the southwest region of Los Angeles County with members of 16 cities and the South Bay portions of Los Angeles County. Members share the goal of maximizing the quality of life and productivity of the South Bay sub-region. The sub-region is diverse in geography, population, ethnicity, industry, and climate zones. Residential areas include both disadvantaged (based on CalEnviroscreen4.0 and the Healthy Places Index) and affluent communities – each with their own challenges. With much ethnic diversity, several languages are spoken. The SBCCOG’s priorities include reducing energy costs, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, protecting air quality and public health, and adapting to extreme climate events. These priorities have previously been addressed through the development of a Sub-Regional Climate Action Plan and Adaptation Plan; assistance for member cities in developing their own CAP and vulnerability assessments; and updating the greenhouse gas emissions inventory to assess achievements.
This climate planning work identified transportation as one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in the South Bay. In an effort to reduce these emissions, the SBCCOG developed a comprehensive Land Use & Transportation (LUT) strategy. The SBCCOG found through years of study that 70% of vehicle trips in the South Bay are 3 miles or less and could be accommodated with slow-speed zero-emission vehicles. Focusing on local trips, the SBCCOG incorporated the South Bay Local Travel Network (LTN) program into both the city and subregional CAPs. The LTN program creates a network of slow-speed neighborhood streets to provide micromobility users safer routes to make local trips. Micromobility is a mode of travel defined as zero-emission, slow speed vehicles including neighborhood electric vehicles, pedal bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters.
The SBCCOG is currently coordinating with city staff and stakeholders to design and implement the LTN and seeks assistance from the CivicSpark program to help implement and promote this program as well as promote micro-mobility through community and ride-and-drive events.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Fellow will work with the SBCCOG transportation team implementing the LTN and promoting micromobility to improve access within the South Bay and expand transportations options (The SBCCOG LTN is a local transportation system of sharrow markings and wayfinding signage to accommodate safe local trips for users of zero-emission (ZEV) micromobility modes. See more about the LTN program HERE). The Fellow will also coordinate with the South Bay member cities of Carson, El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lomita, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, and Torrance as well as businesses and residents to engage stakeholders and unincorporated county areas within the SBCCOG jurisdiction.
Implementation of the LTN and promotion of micromobility will focus on the following main program areas – Stakeholder Engagement, Ride-and-Drive events, community education, and promotion. Under the guidance from SBCCOG staff, the Fellow will:
– Support the team in engaging city, agency, and community stakeholders
– Facilitate and attend meetings with agencies and document activities and outcomes
– Assist with community stakeholder engagement with businesses, residents, and school districts
– Help conduct outreach events such as small micromobility ride & drive events
– Create materials to educate agencies, businesses, and residents on the benefits of the network and encourage use
– Conduct literature review to support implementation such as existing city schedule for roadway striping and street maintenance, parking, etc.
Desired project outcomes include completion of robust stakeholder engagement activities including presentations, events, and educational meetings; and produce content for staff reports, presentations, website, and collateral to promote use of the South Bay LTN and micromobility.
Based on resource restraints facing local public agencies, the work of the CivicSpark Fellow will help increase the agency’s capacity to minimize the worst impacts from climate change as laid out in the Sub-Regional CAP and Adaptation Plan. Helping to implement the South Bay LTN will help make it easier for the South Bay community to use micro-mobility options reducing GHG emissions and improve mobility by taking cars off of the arterials and reducing vehicle miles traveled by encouraging local trips in smaller vehicles. Updating LUT CAP strategies will help guide cities and the subregion to remove barriers and incentivize Non-micro-mobility travel modes and support emerging transportation technologies. This work will also include working with agencies with disadvantaged communities that are often disproportionately affected by GHG emissions and the burned of fuel costs. Disadvantaged communities are identified through CalEnviroscreen 4.0.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Serving with the SBCCOG will provide opportunities to work with stakeholders across various public agencies, utilities, and non-profits in Southern California. Networking activities are abundant, along with the opportunity to develop new skills. The fellow will leave the service year with personal references and projects under their belt to add to a professional portfolio.
The South Bay region is an interesting place to live and work due to its economic and cultural diversity as well as its varying geography – inland, coastal, and hillside communities. Local neighborhoods and towns have unique styles and a variety of food, museums/historical sites, cultural activities, and recreation areas.
Organization: Los Angeles County Public Works
Location: Alhambra, CA
Openings: 2
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Stakeholder Engagement, Project Management, Relationship Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Los Angeles County Public Works (PW), the largest Public Works agency in the nation, builds and maintains a wide range of infrastructure related to water, transportation, waste, and public buildings. PW serves an important role as a steward for sustainability, while striving to meet the high expectations of the PW Strategic Plan, Los Angeles County’s OurCounty Sustainability Plan, and 2045 Climate Action Plan (CAP).
With nearly 10 million residents and 88 cities, Los Angeles County’s demographic and geographic diversity, along with socio-economic and cultural factors, present many challenges and opportunities related to climate change mitigation and adaptation. Climate change in Los Angeles County includes more frequent and severe heat waves and wildfires, worsening air quality, and increasing severe rainfall or drought, all of which disproportionately impact underserved communities and communities of color.
PW is leading the Climate Ready Communities initiative (CRC) to build resilience in areas where climate vulnerability is highest. The initiative is informed by the Los Angeles County Climate Vulnerability Assessment and will focus on addressing risks associated with extreme heat, wildfire, drought, inland flooding, and coastal flooding. CRC aims to build resilience, reduce vulnerability, and foster equitable outcomes in the face of climate change to ensure that communities are better prepared to withstand and recover from climate-related challenges. CRC will prioritize advancing equity and environmental justice by focusing on communities disproportionately impacted by climate hazards.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Climate Ready Public Works Implementation and Roadmap is an internal effort that intends to cultivate a culture where sustainability and resiliency are incorporated into all of PW planning, design, operations, maintenance, and procedures. This effort will help PW better understand our role in supporting our communities while ensuring our projects and services build resilience, reduce vulnerability, and prioritize equity and environmental justice.
To guide this effort, PW has developed an Internal Communications Plan (ICP) to assess existing and recommended PW resiliency and sustainability policies, practices, initiatives, services, and projects to better support unincorporated communities that are most vulnerable to climate change.
The Fellows will play a critical role to implement the ICP by supporting extensive coordination of internal engagement efforts with PW Business Branches and Divisions to inform the development of a PW Strategic Action Roadmap (Roadmap). The Roadmap will guide the integration of sustainability and resiliency into core PW functions and will include components such as: a Sustainability Management Plan, Sustainable Procurement Policy, Monitoring and Maintenance Plan, and updating PW’s Envision Planning Process. Additionally, the Fellows will coordinate with the Council for Watershed Health, community-based organizations, and tribal partners to support community engagement efforts that will be critical to understanding vulnerable communities’ lived experiences with climate risks as well as their needs and priorities in developing resilient infrastructure projects.
In light of the recent Los Angeles fires and their significant impact to the communities that we serve, this work is more critical than ever. Addressing resilience through infrastructure planning and community engagement is essential to mitigating future climate risks and ensure that Public Works projects support long-term sustainability, resiliency, and climate equity as we help rebuild areas of LA County.
As part of the Climate Ready Public Works Implementation and Roadmap, the Fellows will also support the implementation of a sustainability planning framework. Currently, PW uses Envision as a sustainability framework and rating system to evaluate PW infrastructure projects and programs. The Fellows will assist with integrating Envision into project planning through reviewing projects and providing recommendations for areas of improvement. As the Fellows become more familiar with the Envision Framework and various County and PW Plans, they will help strategize and develop a repository for programmatic-level Envision credits.
In an effort to support the County in achieving carbon neutrality and building resilience for unincorporated communities, the Fellows will also assist with data collection and development of PW’s 2024 Operational Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory and analyze emissions reduction progress and strategize additional opportunities to further reduce emissions.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Los Angeles County Public Works (PW) is the largest Public Works agency in the nation, serving more than 10 million people across a 4,000-square-mile regional service area. Public Works has a vision to become the most trusted public agency in the region and a mission to plan, design, build, and maintain modern infrastructure that uplifts all communities of Los Angeles County.
Working for PW, specifically with the Strategic Planning and Sustainability Office, will be a great opportunity for the Fellow to experience working for a large, professional government agency. The Fellow will have the opportunity to understand the entire agency, including the broad range of services PW provides and infrastructure PW manages, collaborate with professional engineers, and build subject-matter-expertise on Sustainability.
The Fellow will also learn real-world sustainability plans and framework implementation and enhance other skills like translating data into tangible and meaningful results that will lead PW to become a more sustainable agency.
Los Angeles County is one of the nation’s largest counties with 4,084 square miles and has the largest population of any county in the nation – nearly 10 million residents who account for approximately 27 percent of California’s population. Public Works serves the unincorporated areas within LA County which consists of 2,638 square miles.
LA County is also one of the most diverse regions in the US.
Organization: HCD
Location: Southeast LA County
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Stakeholder Engagement, Community Engagement, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Gateway Cities Council of Government (GCCOG) Fellows will work with the Regional Development Director to lead efforts related to housing, conduct research and data collection, assist the Council of Government’s (COG) member cities in accessing HCD planning grant funds, and support policy and program development and planning document preparation with the COG and HCD. The GCCOG has 27 member cities, as a liaison the fellow will assist in the development of new region-wide strategies and foster collaboration across city boundaries.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. The Fellow will assist interested Gateway Cities in understanding the purpose and function of Community Land Trust (CLT)s in preventing resident displacement and maintaining ongoing housing affordability in a community.
2. Working with COG staff, the Fellow will identify Gateway Cities interested in considering developing Community Land Trusts for land and/or housing acquisition, creation and preservation. The Fellow will compile available literature/existing studies, and formation documents Community Land Trusts, complete interviews of existing CLT leaders, and summarize key information for local decision makers.
3. The Fellow will present research to local jurisdictions and create case studies describing existing CLTs in LA County, and beyond, including their funders, stakeholders, structure, scope, policies, and impact. Should specific questions emerge from initial presentations, Fellow will conduct follow up research and provide additional information. Fellow may also compile model formation documents and bylaws for existing CLTs that local jurisdictions can use to assist them in developing new organizations.
4. The members of the gateway cities have patterns of housing preservation issues, the GCCOG will lead strategies that lead to anti-displacement, and housing preservation tools. In addition, the analysis of this data can lead to regional and local strategies that can be shared amongst various local jurisdictions.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The Gateway Cities of Council of Governments (GCCOG) consist of 27-member jurisdiction in Southeast LA County. The headquarters are located in Paramount, California. You are within a 20 mile radius of downtown LA, 15 mile radius mile of several Los Angeles County beaches, and home to several diverse communities. You will have various opportunity to travel to nearby cities and orange county to explore new foods, music, and iconic landmarks in Southern California.
Organization: City of West Hollywood
Location: West Hollywood, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder & Community Engagement, Project Management, Research, Program Administration
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Fellows would join the City of West Hollywood’s Long Range Planning team on key efforts to improve quality of life for the West Hollywood community. The Long Range Planning Division works with the community to create more inclusive, affordable, sustainable, connected, vibrant, and opportunity-rich West Hollywood neighborhoods by balancing the goals of the City’s diverse communities with its needs for the future. Long Range Planning staff manage policy development and strategic planning activities for Sustainability, Housing, Land Use, and special strategic planning projects.
The Long Range Planning team is tasked with many ambitious policy and programmatic directives that have major impacts on the community, but operates with an incredibly lean staff. Currently, there are 4 full time staff conducting the day-to-day tasks and managing all of the City’s sustainability, housing, and land use work.
In recognition of the climate crisis, the West Hollywood City Council set one of the most ambitious climate goals across the region in its Climate Action Plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035. To accomplish this, the City must reduce its emissions by 78% by 2035 from 2008 levels. Particularly, the City must address emissions from its transportation and building sectors while ensuring that those who are most severely impacted are prioritized during engagement processes, policy drafting, implementation, and resource allocation. The City has been working on building decarbonization through the development of a building performance standard policy, which will require building owners to make energy upgrades and reduce emissions in existing buildings. This policy is a cornerstone of the City’s climate work and critical to meet carbon neutrality, but must be balanced with adequate support to building owners, many of which are mom-and-pop owners who operate rent-stabilized multifamily, and protections against displacement and undo cost burdens. Most of the City’s existing buildings are multifamily, renter-occupied, rent-stabilized, and built before 1980 (in fact, the median renter-occupied building was built in 1959).
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Fellow could expect to work on core projects related to Sustainability and Climate Action.The Fellow would support the implementation of WeHo Climate Action, which is the City’s 2021 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. The goal of the project is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to meet the City’s 2035 carbon neutrality goal and support the policies, program, and engagement needed for meaningful WeHo Climate Action implementation.
The Fellow would conduct outreach and assist with the general implementation of WeHo Climate Action with a focus on energy and transportation, including but not limited to program reporting, grant opportunities and administration, community outreach, stakeholder relationship management, meeting logistics, collateral material development, data collection, graphic design, and other administrative tasks. The Fellow would also support the setup and administration of the building decarbonization program through project/program management, education/outreach, and developing technical and financial assistance programs. Project outcomes and deliverables may include: staff reports and progress reports with updates of WeHo Climate Action and implementation of its 60 subactions, such as building decarbonization policies and programs; community engagement campaigns around WeHo Climate Action including community meetings, virtual tools, mailers, bus shelter ads, and social media materials; and creation of programs and resources to support decarbonization and climate action, such as a Help Desk, Retrofit Accelerator, and web pages/platforms.
The Fellow would play a crucial role in helping the City achieve its climate goals and improve the quality of life for the community. The City has a bold climate agenda, including one of the most ambitious carbon neutrality goals and one of the first building performance standards policies in the Los Angeles region. Working with a Fellow would increase staff’s capacity to implement the programs and policies that the City has committed to and ultimately reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions, while providing the Fellow an opportunity to work on leading climate projects.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
In 1984, the idea for the City of West Hollywood was proposed by an unlikely coalition of LGBT activists, seniors, and renters. These groups came together to advocate for cityhood.
Through tireless determination, the City of West Hollywood was officially incorporated as an independent City on November 29, 1984. The first West Hollywood City Council in 1984 established West Hollywood as the first City in the nation to have a majority openly gay governing body. Located in the heart of metropolitan Los Angeles, at 1.9 square miles, West Hollywood is a robust economic and cultural center instilled with idealism and creativity, and includes national destinations and landmarks such as the Sunset Strip, the West Hollywood Design District, the Pacific Design Center, and an LGBTQ cultural district.
A spirit of community activism and civic pride thrives in West Hollywood for many of its approximately 35,000 residents. For more than three decades, West Hollywood has been one of the most influential small cities in the nation. More than 40 percent of West Hollywood’s residents identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. West Hollywood is also home to a thriving community of nearly 4,000 people from regions of the former Soviet Union — this represents approximately 11 percent of the City’s population.
West Hollywood is known for its progressive public policies and inclusivity to LGBTQ and human rights issues. The City administers extensive support services for its most vulnerable populations, including seniors, youth, constituents with disabilities, and unhoused community members. West Hollywood has set new standards for other municipalities, not only as a leader in many critical social movements — including HIV and AIDS advocacy; affordable and inclusionary housing; LGBTQ rights, civil rights, and human rights; women’s rights; protection of our environment; and animal rights — but also in fiscal responsibility; city planning; infrastructure; social services programs; wellness and recreation programs; senior services and aging-in-place programs; public and community arts; community engagement; and innovation.
The City’s advocacy and services priorities are reflected in the City’s core values, which include: respect and support for people; responsiveness to the public; idealism, creativity, and innovation; quality of residential life; promotion of economic development; public safety; and, responsibility for the environment. The City of West Hollywood is filled with rich history. People from all over the globe visit West Hollywood for its iconic destinations.
Organization: City of Beverly Hills
Location: Beverly Hills, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis & Collection, Project Management, Research
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of Beverly Hills drinking water laboratory is in final stages of completing a State laboratory accreditation program aimed at improving operational efficiency and expediency. To build on this progress, the City is now focused on optimizing laboratory operations, automating compliance tracking, and exploring opportunities to expand in-house capabilities to reduce reliance on external laboratories.
This project will focus on implementing a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to streamline lab workflows and regulatory reporting while establishing excursion alert and triggered notification procedures to ensure rapid response to water quality concerns. Additionally, the Fellow will conduct research on expanding the lab’s testing capabilities, identifying new fields of accreditation that could enhance the city’s ability to monitor drinking water quality efficiently and cost-effectively.
The CivicSpark Fellow will play a key role in establishing automated data tracking, improving regulatory response systems, and assessing new testing capabilities, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth for the laboratory.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
•Implement a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to digitize lab records, streamline data entry, and enhance sample tracking.
•Develop excursion alert and triggered notification procedures for rapid response to water quality exceedances.
•Assess new fields of accreditation, researching analytes that could be tested in-house to reduce outsourcing costs and enhance water quality monitoring.
•Draft a cost-benefit analysis for testing expansion, evaluating equipment requirements, operational costs, and potential staffing needs.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The City of Beverly Hills is a world-renowned community located in the heart of Los Angeles County. Home to approximately 32,000 residents, the City is known for its exceptional public services, iconic landmarks, and vibrant commercial districts such as Rodeo Drive. Despite its international reputation for luxury, Beverly Hills is a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on civic engagement, public safety, and high-quality infrastructure.
Beverly Hills offers a unique blend of small-town charm and global appeal. The City provides an outstanding work environment with opportunities to engage in innovative municipal projects while serving a diverse and dynamic population. Its commitment to sustainability, cutting-edge technology, and forward-thinking governance makes it an exciting place for Fellows to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact.
Organization: Gateway Cities COG
Location: Paramount, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder Engagement, Project Planning, Relationship Management, Bilingual
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Gateway Cities Council of Government (GCCOG) will host a CivicSpark Fellow to assist with promoting energy solutions in Southeast Los Angeles. GCCOG is a joint powers authority of 27 cities and 11 unincorporated areas in southeast LA County with over two million residents (5% of California). GCCOG leads an array of important initiatives to address environmental, affordable housing and homelessness, transportation, economic development, and health and wellness issues. Particularly, GCCOG is a partner of the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) for the “Public Agencies” and “Residential” sectors. SoCalREN harnesses the collective power of residents, businesses and the public sector to achieve energy savings across Southern California. Learn more here: https://socalren.org/.
There is a primary ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY NEED for marketing and engagement related to the SoCalREN programs and our new initiative, emPOWER Gateway (https://empowergateway.org/). The CivicSpark Fellow would work with the GCCOG Environmental Project Manager and other GCCOG team members to liaise with the SoCalREN team and co-create educational and engagement materials about SoCalREN and other energy efficiency rebates and incentives to residents, cities, multi-family housing, community organizations, and schools. For emPOWER Gateway, we would like to communicate about energy programs holistically. There are new programs launching around home energy assessments, equitable building decarbonization, direct install upgrades, electric vehicle charging, and other incentives; we would need someone to communicate the information through accessible language and with a holistic approach.
There is a secondary ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY NEED to help identify and track related other energy efficiency projects and programs for the Gateway Cities region. With the abundance of energy programs at the local, regional, state, and federal levels, we look forward to having a CivicSpark Fellow be an extra pair of eyes and ears to what is going on related to energy efficiency programs.
One reason energy efficiency and savings is important to the Southeast LA cities and residents is because extreme heat is a big energy concern in the subregion, which faces high impervious surface cover, low tree canopy, and a lack of community resources to address the heat. Many households rely on electricity to cool their home, food, and medical supplies on a day-to-day basis, and more so when there is extreme heat. Not having, or affording, adequate energy and cooling is burdensome to low-income households. Additionally, city and community public facilities rely on electricity to run their critical social services during extreme heat.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. Overarching goals of the project
The Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN) and emPOWER Gateway were created to harness the collective power of residents, businesses and the public sector to achieve an unprecedented level of energy savings across Southern California.
The GCCOG has supported energy efficiency programs in the past years with program marketing, regional engagement, energy planning, education and training, agency recognition, and program motivation and competition. The GCCOG has also provided training opportunities in energy efficiency, engaged cities in energy-saving and sustainability projects such as Energy Resiliency Action Plans, and created and implemented the Gateway Cities Energy Action Awards. We have recently expanded our work to encompass multifamily programs and residential incentives.
2. Role of the Fellow
The primary role of the fellow would include marketing and engagement related to the SoCalREN and emPOWER Gateway programs. This will include participating at in-person events in southeast Los Angeles to talk about energy efficiency programs. This will also entail co-creating content for flyers, case studies, newsletters, social media, and the COG’s website. In order to create marketing and engagement materials. The fellow would assist with doing research on programs, which could include going through lengthy documents and attending meetings, then synthesizing information into digestible formats.
A secondary role of the fellow would help identify and track related energy efficiency projects for the Gateway Cities region. This may include attending webinars and events and reporting back via notes and oral summaries to the GCCOG Environmental Team.
We look forward to hosting someone who is motivated to improve their communication and stakeholder engagement skills as well as learn more about energy efficiency and clean energy as a climate change solution!
3. Desired project outcomes in terms of resources developed (e.g., reports, plans, networks, etc.)
At the end of the fellowship we hope the resources developed for Gateway Cities COG will be:
Sufficient # of outreach activities and # of enrollees in emPOWER Gateway or SoCalREN programs
Flyers, case studies, newsletters, social media posts, and other content for the COG’s website.
Written summaries of energy efficiency related projects, programs, and funding opportunities for the Gateway Cities region.
We also hope the fellow will come out with the following skill set and knowledge:
Strong oral and written skills with an ability to interface well with internal and external colleagues, city staff members, elected officials, and funders
Experience developing strategic communications, including creating written content for outreach and social media materials
Ability to problem-solve by demonstrating diplomacy and tact
Being detail-oriented and able to work independently to complete projects on a deadline
Passion for equity and inclusive community engagement
Interest in and knowledge of the communities of Southeast Los Angeles and energy efficiency
4. How these resources will help increase the agency’s capacity to address the resilience challenges you described in the previous section.
The resources and additional staff capacity on marketing and outreach for SoCalREN and emPOWER Gateway will be important to public agencies in the Southeast Los Angeles region who have limited capacity. The GCCOG acts as a conveyor and shares resources so that public agencies and residents can more easily access rebates for energy efficiency. This is critical because households and cities in the subregion suffer from extreme heat as a big climate concern. Extreme heat can be burdensome to low-income households with costs of cooling, and public facilities rely on electricity to run their critical social services during extreme heat.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The Gateway Cities COG (GCCOG) is a joint powers authority of 27 cities and 11 unincorporated areas in southeast LA County with over two million residents (5% of California). GCCOG leads an array of important initiatives to address regional environmental, affordable housing and homelessness, transportation, economic development, and health and wellness issues.
The Fellow will have the opportunity to serve an area that is considered disadvantaged, but that also has a huge opportunity to shift its economy to having cleaner energy, transportation, air quality, and overall better quality of life.
Particularly, the Southeast Los Angeles communities clustered around the I-710 freeway have been exposed to high levels of toxins due to goods movement. The I-710 freeway carries 40,000 diesel truck trips a day, delivering a large share of the $500 billion of goods that pass through the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach for distribution throughout the US. There is limited park space, low tree canopy and significant vehicular and truck traffic on freeways and the road network within the communities of focus exacerbates the extreme heat conditions and public health impacts today, and is only projected to get worse with the progression of climate change.
Energy efficiency is just one solution to this enormous area of need, but it provides an immediate benefit for cooling and cost savings for many residents and cities.
Organization: Climate Resolve
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder & Community Engagement, Project Planning, Bilingual
ABOUT THE PROJECT
In addition to robust community engagement, the Buffer Zone project has built a strong network of partnerships to ensure the successful development and implementation of community-driven, multi-benefit solutions. Building on Boyle Heights’ legacy of collaboration, the project brought together a coalition of 15 partners, including the City of Los Angeles Bureau of Streets Services (StreetsLA), City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks (LARAP), Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA), Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), City Plants, Los Angeles Conservation Corps (LACC), Northeast Trees (NET), GRID Alternatives Greater Los Angeles (GRID), Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory — Mural Workforce Academy (MWA), Proyecto Pastoral — Promesa Boyle Heights, Fideicomiso Comunitario Tierra Libre (FCTL), NASA/Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Altostratus (a Heat Monitoring and Research Consultant), and Hyphae Design Laboratory.
These partnerships aim to align interventions with local priorities and regulatory frameworks, fostering long-term community empowerment and environmental stewardship. Additionally, our collaboration with StreetsLA and other city entities has laid the foundation for the successful design, permitting, implementation, and maintenance of public infrastructure improvements.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. Together with Promesa Boyle Heights (PBH), we’re engaging the community to develop a “buffer zone” project in areas most affected by pollution, with workshops, Participatory Science Walks, and design charettes to guide the process.
2. The Fellow will work with Project Management staff in Boyle Heights, sharing real, local climate change solutions with the public and seeking new partnerships with community groups. This position will also include general outreach/community engagement efforts and communications work. Climate Resolve is looking for a candidate with a commitment to equity, preferably one who represents one of the constituent communities our work serves.
Essential duties
Participate in weekly Boyle Heights project team meetings
Conduct research on nature based solutions: comparing case studies, identifying agencies involved, budgets, funding sources, timelines, etc.
Support the creation of facilitation guides, outreach materials, community workshop content and trainings presentations, surveys, etc.
Compile and package engagement feedback and input into a report to be shared with partners and other relevant stakeholders
3. Contribute to the implementation of the proposed improvements:
Green infrastructure and nature-based solutions: the integration of shade and air filtration trees to create vegetative buffers along public rights-of-way and private properties, urban greening pilots such as green walls for buildings, and vegetation such as rain gardens or bioswales for street medians to reduce traffic speeds on busy corridors.
Mobility and transportation options: installation of new Metro Bike Share stations with electric bikes to increase last-mile connectivity and sidewalk improvements with curb ramps to enhance accessibility for pedestrians.
Energy-efficient, healthy, and resilient housing and buildings: cooling measures such as ‘cool’ (solar reflective) roofs with solar panels on single-family homes, solar reflective murals at community spaces, and ‘cool’ (solar reflective) pavement installation across the project area to mitigate urban heat.
Community resilience hub: upgrading the resilience of the Boys and Girls Club, a community space at the low-income housing project, Estrada Courts, with a cool roof, a 20 kilowatt (KW) solar photovoltaic and battery backup system to maintain power during disruptions
Local park improvements: installing or upgrading shade structures, hydration stations, public benches, and seating areas, as well as increasing tree canopy to provide shaded, accessible recreation spaces.
4. Including a fellow in our team will help us expand our participation in online/in-person outreach activities, conduct canvassing, co-host Participatory Science Walks, workshops and charrettes, research and compile a roster of community-oriented events and opportunities for tabling and outreach within target communities.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Boyle Heights is disproportionately impacted by climate change and pollution due to its proximity to freeways, industrial facilities, and freight corridors, which contribute to elevated levels of air pollution and extreme heat. This historically underserved community is predominantly Latino, with many households burdened by high rent costs and limited access to green spaces or cooling infrastructure, compounding the challenges posed by urban heat islands and poor air quality.
Boyle Heights is an especially compelling place to live and work because of its rich history of civic activism, deep community ties, and vibrant cultural identity. Its residents have a deep-rooted history of organizing to protect their community and fight for equity. From resisting displacement during freeway construction and urban renewal in the mid-20th century to more recent movements against gentrification and environmental injustice, Boyle Heights has shown how local participation can shape city policy and development.
Organization: City of La Mesa
Location: La Mesa, CA
Openings: 2
Desired Skills: Project Planning, Stakeholder Engagement, Community Engagement, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of La Mesa adopted a Climate Action Plan (CAP) in 2018 and updated in 2024, which provides a long-range roadmap to reduce community wide greenhouse gas emissions in the categories of clean and renewable energy, building energy efficiency, clean and efficient transportation, water efficiency, waste reduction, and urban natural environment. Additional capacity is needed to implement the 21 measures and 153 actions in the CAP, specifically for transportation and community engagement projects and programs for the La Mesa community.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City of La Mesa is seeking two Fellows:
1) Climate Action Plan: Transportation and 2) Climate Action Plan: Community Engagement.
All of the projects listed below are key actions in La Mesa’s Climate Action Plan.
The Transportation Fellow will focus on supporting ongoing transportation measures and key actions in the CAP and also initiate ones that haven’t been started. There are two projects that the Fellow would lead. 1) La Mesa Transportation Demand Management (TDM). This project would task the Fellow with educating the community about TDM and work with City staff to implement TDM strategies. 2) La Mesa Electric Vehicle Infrastructure. This will include working on the ongoing transition of the City’s municipal fleet to electric in preparation for State requirements and also create resources for residents who are interested in learning more about EV’s and also for businesses who would like to expand their EV charging infrastructure.
The Community Engagement Fellow will focus on supporting education and outreach efforts of all CAP categories geared towards residents and businesses. There are 2 projects the Fellow would lead. 1) CAP and Youth Engagement. This would include continuing strategic partnerships with schools and creating innovative strategies to engage with La Mesa’s youth community. 2) La Mesa Green Business Network. The City has a partnership with the San Diego Regional Green Business Network to implement the regional program to La Mesa businesses. The Community Engagement Fellow would work directly with the San Diego Regional Green Business Network to implement the California Green Business Program with the businesses and connect them to resources to save energy, water, etc. and expand the La Mesa Green Business Network.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The City of La Mesa is located in San Diego County, just 10 miles east of Downtown San Diego and 14 miles east from the Pacific Ocean. With only about 60,000 residents in 9 square miles, La Mesa has a small town feel and values community, safety, affordability, and environmental sustainability. La Mesa Boulevard is constantly busy with open shops and restaurants that serve the local community and is walking distance from City Hall. There is also a farmer’s market every Friday the provides local produce and community connection. This Fellowship would be based at City Hall and will have the opportunity to work remotely and in the office (hybrid schedule). City Hall has a 9/80 work schedule, meaning the Fellows would work eight nine hour days (with 1 hour lunch), with every other Friday off and the working Friday is an 8 hour day. Working as a Fellow with the City of La Mesa is a great professional development experience as it is centrally located in San Diego County and CAP staff directly work with sustainability staff from other cities in addition to working with utility and community partners such as SDG&E, San Diego Community Power, Helix Water District, EDCO, and many more. The CAP Team is comprised of two full time staff, one of which is a CivicSpark alumni, and everyone works as a team and provides mentorship. There are also 8 La Mesa CivicSpark Alumni who are happy to provide support and mentorship when needed.
Organization: City of Vista
Location: Vista, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Community Engagement, Marketing, Stakeholder Engagement, Bilingual
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of Vista is a vibrant and diverse community, and city staff are dedicated to providing exceptional services to improving Vista’s quality of life and to enhance the uniqueness of the Vista community. The City Council goals for the city include a cleaner, more beautiful Vista and climate and Environmental responsibility. The City of Vista’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) was updated in 2021 and addresses the challenges of climate change in the city. In addition to the CAP, the City also facilitates other environmental programs like a tree giveaway, e-bike safety trainings, green business network, recycling & organics waste outreach, and more. This project will help expand the City of Vista’s environmental programs and allow for new opportunities to arise for its residents and businesses. Currently the environmental programs are led by a singular staff member, with a few others who help where they can, so having an additional support member fully dedicated to Vista’s environmental programs will help continue the programs that are already running and expand upon them. The Civic spark fellow will work with not only the Climate Action Plan Administrator in the City Manager’s Office, but also have interactions with the Public Works department, the county, the school district, and be able to participate in regional meetings with other climate-based organizations.
The City of Vista, as the rest of the world, has been experiencing changing weather like extreme heat, more frequent fires, and longer rainy seasons. The City has been working to implement its current CAP as well as initiated other programs to help support its community in combatting these environmental challenges our residents, businesses and visitors face. This project will help the city expand their education and outreach efforts on single use plastics reduction and the city’s Styrofoam ban for food service providers, administratively support the City’s residential tree program and expanding it to HOA’s and businesses, supporting Vista’s green business network and working with the Chamber of Commerce, and much more. In addition, this project will help support any public facing Sustainability event efforts, the City’s Environmental Commission, support administrative needs for grant awards and other environmental programs and help the City gear up for a Climate Action Plan Update in 2026.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This position would help with several programs under the umbrella of Climate Action Planning and Sustainability in the City of Vista. The overarching goal of the project is to keep Vista beautiful, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase community interest, education, awareness, and participation in the sustainability efforts of the city. The role of the fellow in this project will be to help administratively support all programs as well as provide customer service and education and outreach to the community. With the help of a fellow, the City will be able to expand their current environmental work and ensure that there is equal access and opportunity to engage in these programs for all of Vista’s community.
Ideally with the support of a Civic Spark Fellow the City can engage more with targeted groups like businesses for our Green Business Network, organics recycling program, and Styrofoam Ban, and homeowners for the Residential Tree Giveaway and outreach events, or environmental groups to come present at an Environmental Commission meeting. They will help create outreach materials, work to market our current programs, write reports on program successes and failures, and work with internal and external stakeholders toward a more sustainable Vista and implement Vista’s Climate Action Plan. With the help of a Civic Spark Fellow, the City will be able to provide additional outreach to our residents and businesses to increase interest and awareness of sustainability programs, and the progress the City has made on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These resources will help expand upon where the city is at right now, as well as create opportunities for more grant funding of these programs as their success is measured and reported upon. In addition, increasing the outreach, and assisting with CAP implementation will increase the City’s resiliency toward higher temperatures, increased rain events, and keeping Vista beautiful.
Lastly, as the City works on their CAP Update in 2026, a Civic Spark Fellow will help with community engagement, project facilitation, and project reporting/updates. This includes marketing for the update, advertising the workshops, interacting with the community and working with consultants, commissions, and council.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Vista is a diverse community of residents, businesses, industry and open space. We serve a primarily English and Spanish speaking community where everyone is able to have their voice heard. Vista grew from agricultural roots, and farming and agriculture are still important aspects of our community to this day. We have a range from rural/semi-rural areas to high density commercial and industrial areas. The City of Vista is a Charter Law city and was incorporated in 1963, it is located seven miles inland from the Pacific Ocean in northern San Diego County and has been knows for a mild Mediterranean climate. Residents and visitors enjoy a wide range of year-round outdoor activities from biking, walking, skating, disc golf, farmers markets and more. Vista has been known to be the craft beer capital but also is very supportive of recreational cannabis use.
Organization: City of Oceanside
Location: Oceanside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Community Engagement, GIS Mapping, Stakeholder Engagement, Public Speaking
ABOUT THE PROJECT
This project aims to enhance the City of Oceanside’ capacity to address climate-related challenges through community outreach, grant support, and data analysis. Specifically, this position will assist with monitoring progress of measures related to the City’s updated Climate Action Plan and developing methods to increase community engagement and awareness of related projects.
The primary agency served is the City of Oceanside, which requires support in developing community surveys to measure awareness of climate goals, creating digital outreach, staffing engagement events, conducting research and developing digestible public reports. This will help the city build its organizational capacity for community engagement around sustainability initiatives and maintain consistent progress reporting on the Climate Action Plan.
The project addresses local and regional climate adaptation goals such as the need for renewable energy infrastructure expansion, identifying and evaluating funding opportunities for transportation management, EV infrastructure expansion and habitat and working lands conservation initiatives. Additionally, this work will address historical social equity issues by mapping and analyzing the distribution of solar PV, EV charging, and building electrification to identify underserved areas and inform future policy direction. This ensures that incentives are directed where they are most needed, promoting equitable access to climate-related developments.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Community Outreach and Education
The primary goal is to boost community awareness and involvement of climate goals and strategies within the City’s Climate Action Plan. This includes creating surveys to gauge awareness, developing digital outreach materials, and staffing engagement events. Additionally, the project aims to establish and enhance strong connections between the City and local business community to foster relationships key to voluntary sustainability measures in the private sector.
The Fellow will be tasked with designing and distributing community surveys, creating digital outreach content, and participating in community engagement events. They will also collaborate with local businesses to support the development of the Green Business Network should funding and staff resources allow.
The anticipated outcomes are comprehensive survey reports, a collection of digital outreach materials, and an understanding of current community awareness to help inform the development of incentive programs critical to the Climate Action Plan.
These resources will provide valuable data and insights to inform program development and policy decisions aimed at the private sector, across the core climate categories of building electrification, transportation management, renewable energy, water conservation, solid waste and work land preservation. By engaging the business community, the city will be better equipped to tackle climate-related challenges and promote sustainable practices.
Grant Support
The objective is to identify attractive funding opportunities and assist with applications for a range of climate-related initiatives, such as transportation management, EV infrastructure, habitat conservation, and renewable energy incentives.
The Fellow will play a key role in identifying, researching, ranking and evaluating funding opportunities, and may also assist with grant writing to secure these funds.
Expected outcomes include the buildout of the City’s Sustainability Program grant tracking tool (a comprehensive list of potential funding sources), detailed grant proposals, and successful grant applications.
Securing this funding will enable the city to implement and expand climate-related projects, thereby enhancing its capacity to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability.
Community Data Analysis and Research
The aim is to better understand the community’s inventory and distribution of key climate-related features, such as solar PV, EV charging stations, and building electrification.
The Fellow will be responsible for conducting mapping and analysis to pinpoint areas that lack these features and need additional incentives. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) experience is highly desirable for the successful candidate.
The expected outcomes are detailed maps and analysis reports that identify underserved areas and suggest where incentives should be focused.
These resources will offer essential data to guide future policy decisions and ensure that incentives are effectively targeted, promoting equitable access to climate-related developments.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Oceanside has a highly rated livability factor with an advantageous coastal locale, a thriving downtown scene, and easy access to both San Diego and Los Angeles as it is centered along a regional major transportation corridor. Oceansiders enjoy one of the most desirable climates in the country, with sunshine and coastal breezes nearly every day, plenty of open space, miles of beautiful palm-lined beaches, unique architecture, historic buildings, and an efficient transportation hub. Oceanside offers professionals some of the most affordable housing in coastal Southern California with a wide variety of housing options from beach cottages and urban condos to estate homes and agricultural properties, making Oceanside a highly sought-after community. The local economy is robust with a low unemployment rate; future Oceanside job growth is projected to be 18% over the next ten years. Oceanside offers an array of exciting hands-on recreational opportunities such as surfing, museums, bike trails, whale-watching tours, skydiving, fine dining, and much more. The “beachy” culture, lively neighborhoods, historic architecture, wonderful people, art and live theatre, and the thriving culinary scene make Oceanside an attractive place to live, work, play, and stay! With tourism as a major industry, Oceanside attracts over 5 million visitors annually to enjoy the relaxing beaches, charming harbor, pier, Mission San Luis Rey, and other attractions. Around 54,000 people work in Oceanside, plus over 4,000 civilian jobs are located at Camp Pendleton, which borders Oceanside to the north.
Organization: City of Encinitas
Location: Enicinitas, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Collection, Marketing, Community Engagement, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
This CivicSpark fellow would serve the City of Encinitas and work as a team member within the City’s Sustainability Division. This division oversees the implementation of the City’s Climate Action Plan (CAP). The City’s CAP includes 20 very ambitious measures that the City will accomplish to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Increasingly high demands are being placed on this division to achieve progress on a number of specific projects. With a focus on these critical projects, limited time is left for the more indirect, but still important components of the Climate Action Plan– specifically public outreach and progress tracking.
The City of Encinitas understands that it is not able to achieve its Climate Action Plan targets without the support of the community at large. It is essential to have residents and businesses take part in reducing emissions. The CivicSpark Fellow would take the lead on engaging the community in this effort.
Encinitas has an active public that would very much like to participate in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the City is missing key staff that have dedicated time to connect the Climate Action Plan to the public. By sponsoring a CivicSpark Fellow, the City of Encinitas would be able to address public outreach from multiple angles. The fellow will focus on CAP outreach and reporting and will head a campaign to directly engage the public in supporting the City’s climate initiatives. The fellow would also track and publicly report the City’s progress toward emissions reduction. This two-pronged approach will create the positive feedback loop of emissions reduction that the City lacks.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The prospective fellow will work in the city’s Sustainability Division and will be responsible for helping implement the City’s Climate Action Plan. This includes initiating and completing various measures prescribed in the plan, conducting outreach, and reporting on implementation progress. The prospective fellow will play a leading role in engaging the Encinitas community to become involved in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Utilizing an Outreach Toolkit, the prospective fellow will implement outreach activities throughout the service year and refine the toolkit as needed. Outreach will include both in-person and virtual events, as appropriate, to captivate residents and businesses and encourage them to be a part of the climate solution. Concurrently, to build capacity in the Sustainability Division, the fellow will utilize the City’s CAP Monitoring Protocol to track and measure progress being made toward Climate Action Plan targets. The City’s Climate Action Plan has specific numeric targets which must be achieved by 2030. This fellow will support staff by assisting with data collection and tracking, as well as reporting progress on the City’s Climate Dashboard and helping to complete the annual CAP Monitoring Report.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
With a population of 60,000 people, the City of Encinitas has something for everyone. With its pristine beaches and rolling hills, famous Botanic Garden and vibrant downtown business district, the City of Encinitas attracts visitors from all over the world.
The century-old Downtown 101 coastal shopping district features historic architecture, quaint shops, sidewalk cafes, specialty retail stores and upscale restaurants.
Encinitas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. Each year, surfers from all over gather in Encinitas to compete in local surfing tournaments. The San Elijo Lagoon boasts the largest coastal wetland in San Diego County and is home to nearly 300 different bird species throughout the year.
The warm California sunshine provides for year-round enjoyment of our beautiful parks, beaches and trails and makes Encinitas a spectacular place to live, work, and visit.
Organization: Port of San Diego
Location: San Diego, CA
Openings: FILLED
Desired Skills: Data Collection, Marketing, Community Engagement, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Port is in the midst of several long range planning efforts related to climate resiliency, including implementing a Climate Action Plan (CAP) Implementation Strategy which will serve as technical guidance to further explore ways to reduce the Port’s scope 1 and scope 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Port also has several internal initiatives that focus on encouraging communal and individual action on topics related to the environment and sustainability as well as collaborating with our tenants through the Port’s Green Business Network to implement sustainable business practices and collectively reduce our carbon footprint. There are needs within these efforts that a fellow could support or lead to contribute to the overall objectives, including research, meeting facilitation and outreach, preparation of frameworks, and data management and analysis.
The CAP Implementation Strategy as well as the Port’s internal sustainability initiatives both address environmental concerns, as they are identifying strategies for the Port to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and exploring opportunities to enhance the San Diego Bay environment, making it a greener place to work, visit, and recreate. These efforts are related to environmental justice issues for surrounding communities, such as air quality, public health, and public access.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Port’s Climate Action Plan Implementation Strategy identifies various energy conservation/efficiency opportunities and renewable energy procurement initiatives to reduce GHG emissions. The Fellow’s role will include developing a database of on-going and new energy efficiency projects; conducting or assisting with energy audits of Port facilities; and determining renewable energy procurement options. The Fellow will also be responsible for maintaining information regarding the Port’s use of electric vehicles. Additionally, the Fellow will contribute to the Port’s examination of reducing scope 3 emissions associated with Port employee commuting. These resources will help the Port continue to reduce its GHG emissions.
Internal/External Sustainability Initiatives:
The Fellow will also support the Port’s internal sustainability initiatives and other tasks as they arise based on the Port’s needs. These would involve: specific research tasks (related to climate resiliency, coastal adaptation, or sustainability); preparation of communication or education materials related to sustainability and climate planning initiatives; creating programming for the Port’s internal Green Team. The Port is also revitalizing its externally-facing Green Business Network for tenants. The Fellow could help with facilitating or participating in tenant outreach and content creation to help Port businesses share sustainability and resiliency best practices, reduce costs, enhance brand image, and access special trainings.
As these efforts advance, the organizational capacity needs are growing and evolving, thus the projects for this year have different focus areas and deliverables than what our past Fellows have worked on. While the work for our previous CivicSpark Fellow year centered on research and establishing processes, the projects for this year focus on program development and implementation, internal and external engagement, and strategy development.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The Port is a public corporation and government agency created in 1962, through the California State Legislature’s adoption of the San Diego Unified Port District Act (Port Act). Through the Port Act, the Port was granted the state tidelands and submerged lands in and around San Diego Bay and is entrusted to manage the diverse waterfront uses on these lands in a manner that is consistent with the California Public Trust Doctrine, promoting and balancing navigation, commerce, fisheries, recreation, and environmental stewardship. As a trustee of State lands, the Port balances these uses within its jurisdiction (Port Tidelands) for the benefit of the people of the state of California. Within Port Tidelands are the waterfronts of five cities: San Diego, National City, Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, and Coronado. The member cities appoint members to the Port’s Board of Port Commissioners.
The Port manages a wide range of uses and activities along Tidelands. In addition to our maritime uses, such as shipbuilding and cruise and marine terminals, we also manage commercial uses, such as restaurants and hotels, fishing and recreational piers, boat launches, commercial fishing harbors, parks and open space, and natural habitat areas. In addition, the Port is a leader in climate and marine technology innovation. We run a Blue Economy Incubator, building a portfolio of businesses and partnerships that deliver multiple social, environmental, and economic co-benefits to the Port and region by removing barriers to entrepreneurs and providing funding, key assets, support services including entitlement and permitting assistance, and pilot project facilitation. In addition, the Port is building a portfolio of nature-based shoreline solutions around San Diego Bay, to enhance our climate resiliency while providing ecological benefits. For example, we have implemented a native oyster living shoreline and a set of interlocking tidepools to replace riprap, and we are continuing to explore other solutions. We are excited to host another CivicSpark Fellow and encourage our Fellows to get to know Tidelands!
Organization: WRCOG/I-REN
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Workforce Development, Project Planning, Project Management, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Inland Regional Energy Network (I-REN) supports its member agencies, the 52 cities and 2 counties across the Inland Empire (Riverside and San Bernardino counties) with a variety of energy efficiency resources. This fellow will support providing the much-needed capacity that many of our member agencies need, which is specific support toward energy efficiency projects. This includes projects like designing and implementing tomorrow’s energy workforce programs – tailored for our unique subregion – today.
Building local talent with a focus on energy efficiency will support state environmental goals as well as local economic development goals.
This Fellow will support I-REN member agencies in “leading by example” by assisting in various energy efficiency projects, and by providing that sustainability expertise to the surrounding communities. Additionally, fellows will create relationship with local communities and provide outreach of additional I-REN energy initiatives (workforce trainings, certification/accreditation programs) and city resources to the communities (underserved, rural, hard-to-reach) that need them most.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Overarching goal of the project and role of the Fellow is to work with the current team on the deployment and implementation of the prioritized recommendation identifies in the I-REN energy focused workforce gaps assessment (published in January 2025).
These recommendations will then be utilized, by the Fellow, to design and implement the next phase of workforce programs and resources deployed by I-REN across Riverside and San Bernardino counties. These programs will support in providing connections and pathways to high-road careers, training and support services in the energy efficiency space within the region.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The Inland Regional Energy Network brings a wide range of energy efficiency resources to 52 cities, 78 unincorporated county areas, and 17 tribes across Riverside and San Bernardino counties — totaling 11% of California’s population.
At roughly 4.2 Million in population, our subregion is more populous than 23 states.
At 27,000 square miles, the I-REN community is roughly the size of South Carolina. I-REN’s geography has created an exciting regional atmosphere where each city, community, has its own unique interested, needs, and perspectives.
Organization: City of Corona/I-REN
Location: Corona, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Planning, Project Management, Research
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of Corona serves its disadvantaged communities by investing in their safety infrastructure, appearance and economy. Of the 68 edge-lit light emitting diodes street name signs, 57 will be placed in disadvantaged community in the City of Corona, per the climate and economic justice screening tool.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Light Emitting Diodes have a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional lighting solutions. By reducing energy consumption, this project indirectly contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment in disadvantaged communities often disproportionately affected by pollution. LED lights provide better visibility than tradition lights, which is crucial for pedestrian and vehicular safety. improved traffic signal visibility can reduce accidents, particularly in areas with inadequate street lighting, directly benefiting residents of disadvantaged communities.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Nestled in the heart of Southern California, the City of Corona is a thriving community known for its rich history, diverse population, and scenic surroundings. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and close to both Los Angeles and Riverside, Corona offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. The city has seen significant growth in recent years, making it an exciting and dynamic place to live and work.
Corona is a family-friendly city with excellent schools, parks, and recreational opportunities, making it a great place to raise children or enjoy an active lifestyle. Residents take pride in their close-knit community, which is supported by a range of local events, farmers’ markets, and cultural festivals that celebrate its diversity and history. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golf, or prefer exploring local museums and historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone.
Why Corona is an Interesting Place to Live and Work:
Living and working in the City of Corona offers a unique opportunity to experience both the charm of small-town life and the energy of a growing city. With its central location, you’ll be able to easily access the many attractions and career opportunities that Southern California has to offer, including the nearby mountains, beaches, and entertainment hubs.
For Fellows, Corona provides a distinctive learning environment. You’ll gain experience working in a city that is focused on sustainable growth, community engagement, and public service. The city’s collaborative and inclusive culture offers valuable hands-on experience, making it an ideal place for professional development. Fellows will also benefit from the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that have a direct impact on the residents and the future of the community.
In short, the City of Corona is a vibrant, welcoming place to live and work, with ample opportunities for both personal and professional growth. The city’s unique mix of community spirit, natural beauty, and economic potential makes it an exciting destination for anyone looking to make a positive difference in local government.
Organization: City of Rancho Cucamonga/I-REN
Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder & Community Engagement, Project Planning, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of Rancho Cucamonga has 35 schools within a 47-square mile geography and experiences high levels of traffic congestion in these neighborhoods. While the City has an existing Safe Routes to School Program and has recently completed its Active Transportation Plan (Connect RC), there are gaps in providing more effective community engagement and promotion of active mobility choices such as walking, biking, or rolling to school. The project aims to foster behavioral change in support of active transportation and micromobility by (1) implementing Safe Routes to School initiatives and strategies, (2) building multigenerational pedestrian and cyclist awareness, (3) strengthening the City’s Safe Routes to School partnerships with schools and relevant stakeholders, and (4) mitigating traffic concerns by promoting a comprehensive, proactive behavior and infrastructure-based approach to improving safety along school routes and within school sites.
The project will address several environmental and health equity challenges including improving air quality conditions by encouraging more active mobility choices and reducing traffic congestion, particularly in school neighborhoods, as well as reducing obesity and chronic disease rates by increasing physical activity and reducing dependence on automobiles for travel. Furthermore, the City’s approach in addressing equity in its traffic safety efforts and infrastructure planning includes evaluating issues and needs school-by-school, neighborhood-by-neighborhood, community-by-community, and identifying projects that are appropriate for each community.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City has limited staff capacity to plan for and complete Safe Routes to School (SRTS) related projects. The City needs additional support to ensure that the strategies and initiatives outlined in the City of Rancho Cucamonga Safe Routes to School Toolkit are implemented and that the City is making progress in developing, supporting, or implementing active transportation projects identified in the City’s Connect RC – Active Transportation Plan.
The City of Rancho Cucamonga’s Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program reflects a national movement to create opportunities for students, including those with disabilities, to safely and conveniently walk, bike, and roll to school. The SRTS Program brings together parents, community members, students, teachers, school officials, City staff, and public safety officers to identify and address potential safety issues and strategize ways to encourage students to become more physically active.
The CivicSpark Fellow will be responsible for the development, coordination, and implementation of the City’s Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program. This includes program development/planning, program administration/implementation, marketing/outreach, education and training, event promotion, volunteer coordination, and program evaluation. Along with facilitating the delivery of initiatives and strategies related to the SRTS Program, the Fellow will assist in managing grant activities outlined in the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Grant Program that would primarily support the SRTS Program. Furthermore, the Fellow will develop and maintain working relationships with schools, City staff, walking/bicycling stakeholders, and other community-based organizations or stakeholders to support their needs.
One of the most important overarching goals of this project and fellowship cycle is to help schools either rejuvenate or establish their own Safe Routes to School programs, particularly in training and empowering school representatives to champion and sustain their respective SRTS programs. In doing so, the City can build better program resiliency and capacity across the city. The primary intent of the City’s own SRTS Program is to serve as a facilitator, connector, and as a hub of SRTS-related resources that will support school-based SRTS programs citywide.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Rancho Cucamonga encompasses nearly 47 square miles and is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in Southern California, with a population of over 179,000. The city is a vibrant place with more than 30 community parks, extensive bike and walking paths through the heart of the city, and easy access to the San Gabriel Mountains. Rancho Cucamonga is also home to the Los Angeles Dodgers Minor League team and an open-air lifestyle center, Victoria Gardens, which offers a collection of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a fantastic place to live, work, and play.
Organization: San Bernardino Community College District/I-REN
Location: San Bernardino CA
Openings: 2
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Data Collection, Facilitation, Research
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) oversees San Bernardino Valley College and Crafton Hills College, serving as the primary agency for this project. The district is committed to improving campus efficiency, reducing resource consumption, and enhancing operational resilience. As SBCCD modernizes its facilities, it focuses on energy efficiency and expanding transportation options to create a healthy and functional environment for students, staff, and the broader community. This project will address those needs by having the Fellow provide research, data analysis, and recommendations to support SBCCD’s long-term infrastructure improvements.
Energy Efficiency & Resilience
SBCCD is dedicated to enhancing energy efficiency and strengthening infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted campus operations and a stable learning environment. Power disruptions affect students, faculty, and staff, making energy reliability a top priority. To address this, SBCCD is upgrading campus infrastructure, improving energy management, and expanding on-site generation. The Fellow will support these efforts by analyzing energy usage, identifying opportunities for improvement, and contributing to initiatives that enhance reliability and efficiency across district facilities.
Transportation & EV Infrastructure
SBCCD is expanding electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and enhancing transportation options. The district is increasing the availability of EV charging stations for students, staff, and visitors while also promoting alternative commuting solutions, including public transit access, biking infrastructure, and carpool programs to reduce single-occupancy vehicle use. The Fellow will contribute by evaluating transportation projects, identifying funding opportunities, and assisting with project coordination to support SBCCD’s long-term mobility goals.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Overarching Goals:
The goal of this project is to enhance SBCCD’s energy use, resource management, and operational efficiency. By implementing these initiatives, SBCCD aims to create a more functional, cost-effective, and accessible campus environment for students, staff, and the broader community. This project will build the district’s capacity to assess and implement infrastructure improvements, ensuring long-term benefits for campus operations.
Role of the Fellow:
The Fellow will work closely with the SBCCD Facilities, Planning & Construction team, engaging with district stakeholders and external partners to support infrastructure and operational improvements. Their role includes:
Desired Project Outcomes:
By the end of the service term, the Fellow will help develop:
Resource Impact:
The resources and insights developed through this project will equip SBCCD with the data and strategies needed to enhance campus operations. By providing technical analysis, strategic recommendations, and engagement support, the Fellow’s work will help SBCCD:
By building SBCCD’s capacity to implement infrastructure improvements, the Fellow will play a key role in advancing the district’s efforts to create a more efficient, adaptable, and well-managed campus environment.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
About SBCCD
Founded in 1926, the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) serves over 20,000 students across Crafton Hills College and San Bernardino Valley College, offering nearly 150 academic and career training programs. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, SBCCD is committed to accessible and affordable education, particularly for Latino/a and underserved students. It also expands regional impact through Empire KVCR 91.9 FM and TV Channel 24, delivering educational and cultural programming to the Inland Empire.
Workplace Culture
SBCCD fosters a welcoming and supportive workplace where Fellows are encouraged to take initiative, ask questions, and expand their skill set. They will attend meetings, observe leadership decision-making, and engage with stakeholders, gaining insight into how SBCCD balances priorities and develops data-driven solutions. Through mentorship and collaboration with experts in facilities management, public administration, and infrastructure planning, Fellows will build valuable connections.
Fellowship Experience
Fellows gain hands-on experience in infrastructure planning, energy management, and operational efficiency, supporting finance budgeting, utility data analysis, and strategic planning while contributing to campus resilience efforts and emergency preparedness. They will have opportunities to present findings, contribute to real-world projects, and develop technical expertise in a dynamic public agency setting.
This Fellowship is ideal for curious, analytical, and solutions-driven candidates eager to work on energy, transportation, and sustainability initiatives. Fellows will conduct research, analyze data, and contribute to impactful projects that enhance campus operations. By the end of their term, they will have developed technical expertise, project management skills, and industry connections, preparing them for careers in facilities management, environmental planning, and infrastructure development.
Organization: Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG)/ I-REN
Location: Palm Desert, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Stakeholder Engagement, Project Management, Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Coachella Valley Association of Governments’ (CVAG) Energy and Sustainability Committee identifies a focus needed on energy implementation through the Inland Regional Energy Network (I‐REN) as part of the implementation efforts of our agency’s plan.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The I‐REN Program is a partnership between the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG), San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG), and the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG). The CVAG agency represents members from 10 cities, 4 Native American Tribes and the county in the Central and Eastern Riverside County region. CVAG is the regional planning agency coordinating government services within the Coachella Valley. By providing solutions to the common issues of the local governments and tribes that are its members, CVAG promotes a better quality of life and balanced growth for our residents. The CVAG I‐REN Energy Fellow will be serving to support and fill organizational capacity needs for our member agencies in Energy Efficiency, project identification, energy building identification and benchmarking, climate/energy action planning and other sustainability initiatives.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) serves the Coachella Valley and Palo Verde Valley, a region in Southern California’s Colorado Desert. This area encompasses ten cities: Blythe, Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Palm Springs, and Rancho Mirage, as well as unincorporated areas of Riverside County and four Tribes (Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, Cabazon Band of Cahuilla Indians, Torres Martinez Band of Cahuilla Indians, and Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians). The Coachella Valley is an interesting place to live and work due to its natural beauty, surrounded by the stunning San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking amidst dramatic desert landscapes and palm oases. The region boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, particularly known for its mid-century modern architecture, numerous art galleries, and the annual Palm Springs International Film Festival, in addition to hosting the world-famous Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and Stagecoach Country Music Festival. With over 350 days of sunshine annually, the valley is ideal for outdoor recreation like golf and tennis. While historically known for tourism and agriculture, the Coachella Valley’s economy is diversifying with growth in healthcare, real estate, and education. Each of the nine cities within the valley offers a distinct character, providing a range of living experiences. Despite offering a desert escape, the Coachella Valley is also within driving distance of major Southern California urban centers. For CivicSpark Fellows, the Coachella Valley offers a unique environment to engage in meaningful work, surrounded by natural beauty and a diverse community, with opportunities to contribute to regional sustainability and resilience in a dynamic setting.
Organization: City of Riverside/I-REN
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Project Planning, Stakeholder Engagement, Project Management, Facilitation
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The position will assist in two City initiatives, Grow Riverside and the Green Business Program. These two programs will require interactions with stakeholders to project plan and manage key phases of implementation that will allow for the development of resilient urban farming and promote sustainability in private businesses.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Fellow will assist in the delivery of the Grow Movement through the following initiatives: the Grow Conference and the Northside Agriculture Innovation Center (NAIC). The Grow Conference brings a collection of practitioners working in agriculture to share best practices in regenerative agriculture and urban farming and includes farm-to-fork dinner and farm tours. The Grow movement also includes the highly anticipated NAIC, a community-driven project on an 8-acre site aimed at boosting workforce development, fostering innovation, and creating businesses in sustainable agriculture and food production. The Fellow will assist in the implementation of key project phases, including the start-up of an agricultural education program at the site, assisting staff with the build out of a solar greenhouse, and with programming at the site.
The Green Business Network provides environmental consulting at no cost to local businesses to help them save money, operate more sustainably, and receive public recognition for their efforts. Working along City staff and the consulting team, the Fellow will assist in moving key project phases forward by acting as a liaison between City staff, the consulting team and local businesses. They will ensure the program is effective and relevant to business owners, working to reduce cost while reducing waste, and increasing energy & water efficiency. The fellow will also assist with promoting the program to new businesses expanding the reach and impact of the program.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Riverside is a full-service city with a population of 317,000 people and 2,300 employees. The Office of Sustainability is a 4-member division that develops and implements sustainability policies and projects across 12 City departments. The Office of Sustainability is a subset of the City Manager’s Office. The Office of Sustainability is a high-level policy implementer for a large city and will give the Fellow valuable experience in learning how policy is developed and implemented across large and diverse groups of departments, divisions, and staff members.Riverside is a historic citrus community and home to the University of California at Riverside. The City grew up on citrus and later as a postwar hub of development that complimented the Southern California Region. Riverside is remarkably diverse and is a majority Latino city. The City serves as the Riverside County seat; a county as large as the state of New Jersey. Within two hours of beaches, deserts, mountains, and a variety of urban and suburban cities, Riverside is a great nexus of experiences and activities that will surprise any prospective Fellow!
Organization: City of Riverside/I-REN
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Planning, Community Engagement, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The fellow will assist with the City of Riverside’s Office of Sustainability in its efforts to develop a citywide Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Fellow will assist to map and establish the parameters for a newly formed Citywide
Office of Sustainability that is housed within the City Manager’s Office. The Fellow will also work to establish initial outreach and data collection planning for a Climate Action Plan which will be part of the City’s new General Plan development process. Outcomes will be two pre-planning strategies for mapping a new sustainability office and a new sustainability strategy to make sure that both are relevant to the City’s needs and allow Riverside to become a regional leader in sustainability and climate adaptation.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Riverside is a full-service city with a population of 317,000 people and 2,300 employees. The Office of Sustainability is a 4-member division that develops and implements sustainability policies and projects across 12 City departments. The Office of Sustainability is a subset of the City Manager’s Office. The Office of Sustainability is a high-level policy implementer for a large city and will give the Fellow valuable experience in learning how policy is developed and implemented across large and diverse groups of departments, divisions, and staff members.Riverside is a historic citrus community and home to the University of California at Riverside. The City grew up on citrus and later as a postwar hub of development that complimented the Southern California Region. Riverside is remarkably diverse and is a majority Latino city. The City serves as the Riverside County seat; a county as large as the state of New Jersey. Within two hours of beaches, deserts, mountains, and a variety of urban and suburban cities, Riverside is a great nexus of experiences and activities that will surprise any prospective Fellow!
Organization: San Bernardino Council of Governments/I-REN
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder Engagement, Project Planning, Public Speaking, Relationship Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
This position will provide assistance with capacity issues, grant funding, regional government assistance, leadership within the I-REN fellowship program, and additional projects throughout 25 agencies in all of San Bernardino County. This individual will take on a key role in developing tours, engaging with other fellows, and participating within I-REN programs for multiple agencies. They will also be exposed to both the I-REN side and the SBCOG side of programs including grants, housing, environmental planning, regional planning, and various other programs within the county as a whole including hard to reach, disadvantaged, and challenged communities.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
I-REN Fellowship leader program – co-lead with WRCOG Fellow: scheduling events for fellowship cohort, coordinating networking, liaison between I-REN program managers and fellows throughout the region.
I-REN program assistance within the workforce, education, and training sector: assist with science fairs, educational programs throughout SB County, manage consultants related to education, workforce development program planning, networking within the county staff and outside agencies.
I-REN outreach events: assisting with speaking to I-REN programs, fellowship outreach, creating task tracking, creation of flyers, aid in the planning and execution of events related to I-REN and SBCOG, participating in outside agency events to promote I-REN
SBCOG connections with other regional and local agencies related to housing, resilience, and funding: working on the climate action plan, microgrid programs, EV charging plans, resiliency planning, grant funding for local agencies, building connections within local agencies and other regional agencies.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
SBCOG serves the entirety of San Bernardino County. There are urban and valley regions tied into mountain and desert regions. Everything from Upland to the border with Nevada and Arizona is included in the community. While most of the work happens within the San Bernardino City area, there are events throughout the region and people to work with who have different needs and desires based on their geographic location. There is always something new to do and a different group to engage with every day. The bigger picture of the region is always the goal and there is always something happening.
Organization: City of Riverside/I-REN
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: FILLED
Desired Skills: Stakeholder Engagement, Project Planning, Project Management, Relationship Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The fellow will work with the City of Riverside to identify citywide areas of opportunity for zero emission vehicles (ZEV) and infrastructure that would further enable ZEV adoption across the City, as well as, evaluating City building stock and upcoming construction projects for infrastructure opportunities to create more sustainable, healthy, and efficient structures.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Fellow will assist to map and establish parameters for ZEV infrastructure development to help lower GHG emissions and increase air quality for the City. The Fellow will also work to evaluate public buildings, their design & operations, for opportunities in environmental leadership in existing building stock. Outcomes will be policy recommendations on ZEV and infrastructure needs, and recommendations for projects and programs that can benefit current public building stock setting a template for future municipal development standards.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Riverside is a full-service city with a population of 317,000 people and 2,300 employees. The Office of Sustainability is a 4-member division that develops and implements sustainability policies and projects across 12 City departments. The Office of Sustainability is a subset of the City Manager’s Office. The Office of Sustainability is a high-level policy implementer for a large city and will give the Fellow valuable experience in learning how policy is developed and implemented across large and diverse groups of departments, divisions, and staff members.Riverside is a historic citrus community and home to the University of California at Riverside. The City grew up on citrus and later as a postwar hub of development that complimented the Southern California Region. Riverside is remarkably diverse and is a majority Latino city. The City serves as the Riverside County seat; a county as large as the state of New Jersey. Within two hours of beaches, deserts, mountains, and a variety of urban and suburban cities, Riverside is a great nexus of experiences and activities that will surprise any prospective Fellow!
Organization: City of Corona/I-REN
Location: Corona, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Planning, Project Management, Research [/vc_column_text]
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The census tracts containing parking and refueling points for the City’s fleet fall between the 86th-93rd CalEnviro Screen 4.0 percentile with diesel PM falling between the 94th -99th percentile.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Due to the California Air Resources Board (CARB)’s recently adopted Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) rule, all new and replacement medium- and heavy-duty vehicles are required to be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by the year 2027. The proposed project will involve conducting feasibility studies between battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), identifying future sites for the installation of electric charging infrastructure to later become larger Capital Improvement Projects, and researching competitive funding to prepare for the City of Corona’s fleet transition to ZEVs. The fellow will participate from cradle to grave, with tasks including analyzing our current fleet to determine which vehicles are impacted by the ACF Rule, assisting in preparing a cost estimate for the acquisition of ZEVs to phase out existing gasoline vehicles, researching manufacturers that the City may source ZEVs from, etc. The fellow will not only be assisting the City in meeting compliance with the ACF ruling, but also in taking a positive step towards forging a cleaner energy future for our residents.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Nestled in the heart of Southern California, the City of Corona is a thriving community known for its rich history, diverse population, and scenic surroundings. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and close to both Los Angeles and Riverside, Corona offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. The city has seen significant growth in recent years, making it an exciting and dynamic place to live and work. Corona is a family-friendly city with excellent schools, parks, and recreational opportunities, making it a great place to raise children or enjoy an active lifestyle. Residents take pride in their close-knit community, which is supported by a range of local events, farmers’ markets, and cultural festivals that celebrate its diversity and history. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golf, or prefer exploring local museums and historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone. Why Corona is an Interesting Place to Live and Work: Living and working in the City of Corona offers a unique opportunity to experience both the charm of small-town life and the energy of a growing city. With its central location, you’ll be able to easily access the many attractions and career opportunities that Southern California has to offer, including the nearby mountains, beaches, and entertainment hubs. For Fellows, Corona provides a distinctive learning environment. You’ll gain experience working in a city that is focused on sustainable growth, community engagement, and public service. The city’s collaborative and inclusive culture offers valuable hands-on experience, making it an ideal place for professional development. Fellows will also benefit from the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that have a direct impact on the residents and the future of the community. In short, the City of Corona is a vibrant, welcoming place to live and work, with ample opportunities for both personal and professional growth. The city’s unique mix of community spirit, natural beauty, and economic potential makes it an exciting destination for anyone looking to make a positive difference in local government.
Organization: City of Indio/I-REN
Location: Indio, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder Engagement, Facilitation, Technical Writing, Project Management, [/vc_column_text]
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of Indio Sustainability Commission is finalizing the Sustainability Plan. The plan includes action items with a strong focus on outreach, partnerships and education. Community feedback is an important aspect of of the plan so that projects can be in line with resident expectations and future projects can be informed from the feedback. Action items include energy efficiency, conservation and education.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The role of the Fellow will be to support sustainability projects including energy efficiency and climate action. The Fellow will be involved with research, community engagement and planning. If time allows, other sustainable topics may also be worked on including stormwater and waste management.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The natural beauty and perfect winter climate combine to make the City of Indio the leading city in the region. Located in the Coachella Valley in Southern California, Indio spans 30 square miles and is the largest municipality in the Valley, both in area and population. Following significant growth in the region, Indio has seen a 73% increase of residents since 2000. This dramatic growth and success in recent years has required strategic response by City leadership in the upgrade of infrastructure and services. Today the population in Indio is approximately 85,000. Indio has historically been the main population center in the Coachella Valley and continues to serve as the location for Riverside County’s eastern branch offices.
With fabulous weather, Indio offers abundant outdoor activities including renowned polo matches, championship golf, cycling, equestrian events, and hiking. This ideal climate, combined with exceptional conditions for growing various crops and an ample supply of ground water, allows agriculture to remain the second largest industry in the Coachella Valley. Tourism is ranked as the region’s top employer. With close to a million visitors each year attending its various festivals, shows, concerts, and events, Indio is known as the “City of Festivals.”
Organization: Colton JUSD/I-REN
Location: Colton, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Stakeholder & Community Engagement, Marketing, Public Speaking [/vc_column_text]
ABOUT THE PROJECT
This fellowship directly supports the District’s Energy Manager in planning, implementing, and administering a comprehensive energy management and sustainability program. We are spearheading initiatives to reduce utility consumption, decrease our carbon footprint, transition to sustainable transportation (including EV charging infrastructure and EV buses), and enhance overall environmental stewardship across all facilities. We require dedicated support to bolster our capacity for in-depth research into grant funding opportunities, assist in the development of grant proposals, analyze energy consumption data, and support the implementation of eco-sustainability programs. The Fellow’s contributions will be vital in securing resources and advancing our strategic objectives.
We have identified critical priorities this project will address. These include the urgent need to secure diverse grant funding and leverage economic incentives for projects like zero-emission transportation, solar power generation, resilient infrastructure, sustainable outdoor learning environments, and battery storage. Furthermore, there’s a strong emphasis on integrating energy efficiency into facilities bond projects, managing District real property assets with a focus on cost control and sustainability, and ensuring compliance with state mandates for eco-sustainability. This project will help overcome the challenge of limited staff capacity for dedicated grant research and proposal development, and provide analytical support for data-driven decision-making in energy management
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. Overarching Goals of the Project:
The primary goal of this fellowship is to assist the Energy Manager to achieve the District’s ambitious energy and sustainability targets. This includes:
Maximizing the acquisition of grant funding and economic incentives for sustainability projects.
Supporting the development and implementation of the District’s energy/utilities management program through energy audits.
Facilitating the transition to a sustainable and zero-emission transportation fleet.
Strengthening the District’s eco-sustainability programs through educational outreach at school sites.
Improving the tracking, analysis, and reporting of utility consumption and renewable energy generation by maintaining the EnergyCAP utility database.
2. Role of the Fellow in the Project:
The Energy Fellow will work closely with and under the guidance of the Energy Manager by, undertaking a variety of critical tasks:
Grant Research and Support: Identifying, researching, and evaluating local, state, and federal grant funding opportunities, tax credits, and rebates relevant to all facets of the District’s sustainability goals (e.g., EV infrastructure, solar, energy efficiency, battery storage). Assisting in the preparation, writing, and compilation of grant applications and supporting documentation.
Data Analysis and Reporting: Assisting in the collection, analysis, and maintenance of records for energy (including solar and battery storage), water, irrigation, sewer, natural gas consumption, and solid waste. Supporting the creation and maintenance of a dashboard on the District website for utility consumption and solar generation.
Programmatic Support: Assisting in the development and implementation of energy conservation and eco-sustainability awareness programs. Supporting the coordination of initiatives with internal departments and external partners. Helping to prepare materials for presentations to the Board or other stakeholders.
Policy and Planning Assistance: Researching best practices, new technology trends, and relevant legislation in the energy and sustainability sectors to inform District planning and policy. Assisting with the development of long-range plans for energy conservation and sustainability.
Project Coordination Assistance: Supporting the Director in coordinating the work of consultants, vendors, and contractors for specific energy projects, as assigned. Assisting with the integration of energy efficiency measures into facilities bond projects.
3. Desired Project Outcomes in Terms of Resources Developed:
By the end of the fellowship, the Fellow will have contributed to the development of several key resources:
A Comprehensive Grant Opportunity Matrix detailing potential funding sources, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application requirements for priority sustainability projects.
Draft Sections and Supporting Documentation for at least two to three significant grant proposals.
Analytical Reports and Visualizations of utility consumption trends, identifying areas for targeted energy efficiency interventions through EnergyCAP software.
Resource Materials for Energy Conservation and Sustainability Awareness Programs (e.g., fact sheets, presentation slides, content for website).
A Summary Report of research findings on emerging technologies, relevant policies, or best practices in a specific area of focus (e.g., EV charging deployment, community solar models).
A “Fellowship Contribution Log” detailing tasks undertaken, resources utilized, and key learnings to inform future fellowship cohorts or similar support roles.
4. How These Resources Will Help Increase the Agency’s Capacity:
These resources will directly augment the capacity of the Energy Manager and the District. The Grant Opportunity Matrix and draft proposals will significantly streamline the grant acquisition process, increasing the likelihood of securing vital funding and reducing the Director’s time spent on initial research and drafting. The analytical reports will enable more data-informed decision-making for energy management and project prioritization. Awareness materials will enhance stakeholder engagement and promote a culture of conservation. The research summary will provide valuable insights for strategic planning. Overall, the Fellow’s contributions will provide essential leverage, allowing the Energy Manager to focus on higher-level strategic initiatives, negotiations, and program oversight, thereby accelerating the achievement of the District’s comprehensive energy and sustainability goals.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Okay, let’s talk about the vibrant community our energy management initiatives serve here in Colton, California! This context is really important for Fellows to understand, as our work is deeply intertwined with the people and places we impact.
Our Community: Colton, California
Colton is a city with a rich history, strategically located in the heart of the Inland Empire region of Southern California. It’s a community that beautifully blends its historical roots, particularly its significant railroad heritage, with the dynamic growth and diversity of modern Southern California.
Why Colton is an Interesting Place to Live and Work for Fellows:
A Crossroads of History and Future: Colton boasts the distinction of being the site where the two major Southern California railroads, the Union Pacific and the BNSF (formerly Santa Fe), cross. This “Colton Crossing” is a landmark and a testament to the city’s foundational role in the development of the region. For Fellows interested in history, infrastructure, or urban development, this provides a fascinating backdrop. You can literally see the arteries of commerce and a piece of American history in action daily.
Diverse and Engaged Population: Colton is home to a diverse population, reflecting the multicultural tapestry of California. This creates a rich social environment and offers Fellows the chance to work with and learn from people from many different backgrounds. Our schools, which are the direct beneficiaries of our energy work, are a microcosm of this vibrant community. Engaging with this diversity is a learning experience in itself.
Organization: Riverside County Housing & Workforce Solutions, Workforce Development Division
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Workforce Development, Community Engagement, Public Speaking [/vc_column_text]
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The fellow will support Riverside County’s Workforce Development Division through its Special Projects Unit and Regional planning unit, with a focus on the clean energy sector. The agency seeks to strengthen local workforce capacity by expanding research, outreach, and planning efforts that align with state goals for a renewable energy transition. The fellow will assist in identifying workforce gaps, developing strategic partnerships, and supporting planning initiatives aimed at building a robust pipeline for energy-related trades. Specifically, the fellow will work in collaboration with regional partners such as the Inland Regional Energy Network and surrounding counties to identify job placement opportunities and inform future workforce investments. By conducting research and data analysis, the fellow will help uncover projected workforce needs for the following years and support the creation of pathways for residents to access clean energy careers. This project directly addresses community-identified priorities, including the need for equitable access to high-quality jobs and training programs in underserved communities. Through collaboration with the Inland Regional Energy Network and regional partners, the fellow will conduct research and stakeholder engagement that informs job placement strategies, supports workforce education and training programs, and ensures alignment with both local and regional workforce plans. The ultimate goal is to supporting strategic initiatives that build a more resilient and opportunity-rich local economy.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. The primary goal of this project is to strengthen Riverside County’s Workforce Development Division’s ability to plan, design, and implement clean energy workforce initiatives that are equitable, responsive to local labor market needs, and aligned with the state’s goals for a renewable energy future. The project aims to identify opportunities to expand access to clean energy careers, particularly for underserved and underrepresented communities in the Inland Empire region.
2. The CivicSpark Fellow will support the County’s Special Projects and Regional Planning Unit within the Workforce Development Division. Their responsibilities will include conducting labor market research, engaging with regional partners, and identifying opportunities for job placement and workforce training in the clean energy sector. The fellow will also assist with community outreach, coordinate stakeholder engagement activities, and support strategic planning efforts. Additionally, the fellow may contribute to writing funding proposals and helping the County identify resources to sustain long-term workforce initiatives.
3. By the end of the service term, the fellow is expected to produce several key resources, including: A research brief or report summarizing clean energy workforce trends in the Inland Empire region, stakeholder engagement map identifying key industry and education partners, recommendations for workforce development strategies aligned with regional planning goals, outreach materials that support public awareness of training and career opportunities in clean energy, and a list of funding sources and/or drafted content for grant proposals related to workforce and clean energy programs.
4. These resources will strengthen the agency’s ability to make data-informed decisions, form new partnerships, and expand clean energy workforce pathways for Riverside County residents. By building a clearer picture of the region’s workforce needs and opportunities, the County will be better equipped to design programs that meet community and industry demands. The fellow’s work will also help the County pursue additional funding, align its workforce strategy with state and regional goals, and ensure that underserved communities are not left behind in the energy transition.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Riverside County is one of the fastest-growing counties in California and a vital part of the Inland Empire region. With a diverse population of over 2.4 million residents, the county includes urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and rural communities—each with unique workforce and economic development needs. The Inland Empire has a strong foundation in public administration, transportation, logistics and manufacturing, and healthcare, and is now expanding into clean energy, technology, and other emerging sectors. What makes Riverside County an exciting place to live and work is its blend of community-driven innovation and regional collaboration. The area is home to a wide range of educational institutions, community-based organizations, and growing industries—all working together to create equitable opportunities and long-term economic mobility. Fellows will experience the dynamic intersection of regional planning, workforce development, and public service in a region deeply committed to inclusive growth. With its proximity to major metropolitan areas, beautiful natural landscapes, and rich cultural diversity, the Inland Empire offers a unique balance of professional opportunity and quality of life, making it a meaningful place to serve and grow.
Organization: City of Grand Terrace
Location: Grand Terrace, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Software Programming/Website Updates, Community Engagement, Project Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Blue Mountain Energy Conservation Initiative will mainly serve the City of Grand Terrace including its residents, businesses, and any key players that play a huge role in developing energy sustainability within the City of Grand Terrace. The initiative will require the workforce of one full time fellow and collaboration from various partners including city staff, I-REN, utility companies, and any other agencies that will help develop the city’s initiative.
Priorities for the project include providing information to the public regarding energy sustainability and conservation through resources provided by both public and private agencies including the City of Grand Terrace, Southern California Gas Company, Southern California Edison, and the California Energy Commission.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The overall goal of the Blue Mountain Energy Conservation Initiative is to reach the city’s goal of achieving energy sustainability through implementation of energy conservation measures such retrofitting of public buildings and facilities including the city’s civic center, parks, and senior center.
In addition to achieving necessary upgrades to the city’s facilities, the goal of the program will also be to provide helpful information to the city’s low income residents that can benefit from energy conservation programs offered by utility companies and local governments such as retrofitting of residences with little to no cost for property owners.
The role of the Fellow would be to coordinate the initiative in its entirety from data gathering, to analysis, oversee implementation of recommendations from the I-REN team (retrofitting of buildings), to coordination of meetings between I-REN staff, city staff, and external agencies including utility companies and third party contractors.
Overall, the initiative will assist the city in achieving its ultimate goal of being energy sustainable at both public and private buildings including city facilities, buildings, parks, and private dwellings where residents benefit from the many programs offered by I-REN and utility companies.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The City of Grand Terrace serves its residents, businesses, and stakeholders including contractors, vendors, and consultants that seek to perform business within the city. With collaboration from external partners, the city intends to serve its residents with resources that will assist in reaching self sustainability and energy conservation.
Being located in the center of the Inland Empire metropolitan area, the Fellow will be able to network with various partners and nearby public agencies that seek the same goals as those of Grand Terrace.
Organization: Jurupa Community Services District
Location: Jurupa Valley, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Planning & Management, Research
ABOUT THE PROJECT
1. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory and Analysis
•Goal: Quantify and categorize all current sources of greenhouse gas emissions across operations.
•Need: Develop or adopt a methodology consistent with state/national protocols (e.g., The Climate Registry, CARB).
•Deliverable: A comprehensive GHG inventory baseline year and ongoing tracking framework.
2. Identification of Emission Reduction Opportunities
•Goal: Pinpoint practical and high-impact opportunities to reduce emissions.
•Need: Evaluate fleet, facilities, energy use, and procurement policies for potential improvements.
3. Development of Reduction Pathways
•Goal: Outline technically feasible, cost-effective pathways to reduce emissions over time.
•Need: Engage experts to help prioritize options (e.g., electrification, renewables, carbon sequestration, efficiency upgrades).
4. Project Concept Development
•Goal: Generate a portfolio of potential projects eligible for future funding (grant-ready).
•Need: Pre-feasibility studies, cost estimates, emissions reduction potential, and co-benefit assessments (e.g., air quality, equity).
5. Community Engagement and Equity Considerations
•Goal: Involve impacted communities in planning and project selection.
•Need: Outreach, listening sessions, and equity assessments to ensure inclusive participation and equitable benefits.
6. Integration with Existing Plans and Regulatory Requirements
•Goal: Align with existing sustainability, climate adaptation, and regulatory plans.
•Need: Cross-reference regional climate plans, SB 375/SB 32 targets, CEQA requirements, etc.
7. Funding and Financing Strategy
•Goal: Identify pathways to secure funding for implementation.
•Need: Grant strategy, project bundling options, and readiness documentation for shovel-ready status.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. Overarching Goals of the Project
The primary goal of this project is to significantly reduce JCSD’s energy consumption and carbon footprint through the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels at the agency’s headquarters. By generating renewable on-site energy and incorporating modern energy storage systems, the project aims to reduce reliance on the grid, lower operational energy costs, and enhance energy resiliency. An equally important goal is to support the agency’s long-term plan to transition to an electrified vehicle fleet, which aligns with broader environmental sustainability and climate resilience initiatives.
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2. Role of the Fellow in the Project
The Fellow will play a central and collaborative role in supporting the planning, coordination, and execution of the solar installation project. Specific responsibilities may include:
•Conducting background research on solar technologies and storage options suitable for JCSD’s facility and energy needs.
•Assisting in feasibility assessments and site analysis.
•Supporting stakeholder engagement efforts, including coordination with utility companies, vendors, and internal departments.
•Helping to develop project implementation timelines, funding strategies, and cost-benefit analyses.
•Drafting progress reports, sustainability plans, and related documentation to support executive decision-making and compliance with funding requirements.
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3. Desired Project Outcomes in Terms of Resources Developed
•A comprehensive solar and battery storage feasibility report tailored to JCSD’s operational footprint.
•A strategic implementation plan, including cost estimates, funding sources, and phasing options.
•A stakeholder engagement and communication roadmap.
•An electrification roadmap for JCSD’s vehicle fleet, linked to projected solar generation and storage capacity.
•Documentation of vendor outreach, permitting considerations, and site readiness assessments.
•A final presentation and summary report to JCSD leadership and external partners, outlining key findings and recommended next steps.
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4. How These Resources Will Help Increase the Agency’s Capacity
These resources will provide JCSD with a clear, data-informed foundation to move forward with a complex, multi-phase sustainability initiative. They will enable the agency to:
•Make informed decisions regarding capital investments in clean energy infrastructure.
•Access and leverage funding opportunities by demonstrating project readiness.
•Reduce future energy costs and budget volatility through a clear operational strategy.
•Establish a scalable model that can be applied to other JCSD facilities or regional partners.
•Advance broader climate goals, including fleet electrification and emission reductions, by aligning operational planning with infrastructure enhancements.
Together, these tools will significantly increase JCSD’s capacity to proactively address energy resilience, sustainability mandates, and long-term cost control—ensuring environmental and fiscal stewardship.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
JCSD serves the vibrant and diverse communities of Jurupa Valley and Eastvale in western Riverside County, two of California’s newest and fastest-growing cities. These communities are rich in cultural heritage and represent a broad cross-section of ethnic, linguistic, and generational diversity, making the region an engaging and inclusive place to live and work. The area combines suburban comfort with proximity to major metropolitan hubs like Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, while offering scenic views, equestrian trails, regional parks, and strong neighborhood connections. JCSD’s broad range of services that include water and wastewater operations to parks, recreation, graffiti abatement, and landscape maintenance provides a unique professional environment where perspective employees can gain experience in multiple facets of public service. This diversity in both community and services creates a compelling, well-rounded opportunity for those looking to make an impact, grow professionally, and build meaningful relationships within a community-oriented organization.
Organization: Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District/Water Employee Services Authority
Location: Lake Elsinore, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Management, Facilitation, Technical Writing
ABOUT THE PROJECT
We serve the cities of Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Murrieta, Canyon Lake, and various unincorporated Riverside and Orange County areas. We provide regular outreach on infrastructure improvement projects, water quality, public health, and billing/rate related matters. We participate in energy demand response programs to reduce periodic power outages and are seeking to expand our renewable energy portfolio. Our goal is to minimize operating costs while being responsible stewards of the environment.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
We do not have a single project but several different projects or programs where a fellow can contribute and learn. The projects are as follows:
-Assist with project oversight for a proposed battery energy storage project that could start in late 2025. This project will created substantial electric expense savings which help control rate escalations.
-Participate in current demand response programs by monitoring, trending, evaluating program improvement, and seeking new opportunities. These programs seek to mitigate rising electricity costs.
-Assist in community outreach effort for septic to sewer conversion projects which will result in improved groundwater quality and increase recycled water availability. Better groundwater quality leads to more cost effect local groundwater supplies and additional recycled water can help supplement local surface water levels or offset potable water use.
-May assist Government Relations in monitoring and review of pending regulations and legislation that is received for review and/or comment. (We understand this fellow cannot be used to steer, lobby, or influence legislative or regulatory outcomes)
-May provide assistance to the grants management team in compliance follow-up for existing grants that have already been awarded. Most grants are for infrastructure improvement. Others may be for water use efficiency and energy efficiency, including a pending EV charging grant.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Our headquarters is situated in the heart of Elsinore Valley which has a rich history and is a melting pot of different cultures. Since we serve many cities in the region over 95 square miles of service are, our demographic served varies dramatically from all ranges of race, religion, income, and education. Understanding how to meet the needs and expectations of disadvantaged service areas, affluent communities, and everything in between will offer the fellow a unique perspective on what is important to different customers and communities. Understanding how to relate to our customers to ensure we meet their expectations is paramount our success and offers lessons that can be applied in any community. We own and manage two lakes and dams, and we have roles in the operation of a third lake. We also participate in a regional lake and watershed health program to ensure all stakeholders are partnering to maximize lake and environmental health.
Organization: Western Municipal Water District
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Collection, Project Management & Planning, Facilitation
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Assist the Technical Services team within the Operations Department with project management efforts for commissioning and start-up for new facilities, development of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and operations and maintenance (O&M) manuals, and coordinating project deliverables with other Western Water departments including Engineering and Water Resources.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. Energy management and optimization for water quality and wastewater treatment plants.
2. Roll of the Fellow will be support and research related.
3. Participates in the development of Western Water strategic plans and initiatives.
Participates in developing and monitoring department and capital improvement budgets.
Participates in the implementation of energy management and system optimization programs.
4. Delivery of programs ensuring new start-ups are efficient and effective.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Western Water is a dynamic, forward-thinking agency dedicated to delivering potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to nearly one million customers across Riverside County. As one of the region’s largest and most impactful utilities, we are committed to the highest standards of transparency, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
Organization: San Bernardino County- Land Use Services
Location: San Bernardino, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Management, Legislative Analysis, Research
ABOUT THE PROJECT
San Bernardino County Land Use Services- Long Range Planning division is seeking one Fellow to assist with renewable energy entitlement streamlining.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This project will conduct targeted research to provide recommendations to streamline the entitlement process for renewable energy projects within unincorporated San Bernardino County. This initiative will ensure internal land use policies and procedures effectively support and enable renewable energy development in alignment with the Countywide Plan.
The Fellow will help staff assess emerging trends in solar, energy storage, and other renewable energy technologies. The research will inform internal procedures—ensuring that entitlement processes are clear, consistent, and supportive of the Renewable Energy and Conservation Element.
By aligning entitlement policies with Countywide Plan objectives, the jurisdiction can facilitate renewable energy development while maintaining community character, protecting environmental resources, and ensuring equitable outcomes.
Objectives:
Evaluate model policies and procedures from other jurisdictions to identify best practices.
Identify internal policy gaps and procedural inefficiencies related to renewable energy permitting.
Deliverables:
Policy research report with best practices in renewable energy entitlements.
Gap analysis of current policies and renewable energy entitlement best practices.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
San Bernardino County’s diverse communities are shaped by their distinct mountain, valley, and desert landscapes, each with unique cultural identities and ways of life. In the mountain regions, communities enjoy a quiet lifestyle characterized by forests, cool temperatures, and a strong sense of community. Tourism plays a significant role, with visitors drawn to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and taking in the scenic views. The valley communities blend suburban development with agricultural roots, maintaining a balance between residential growth and farming. These areas reflect a mix of rural traditions and suburban conveniences, with residents valuing both heritage and progress. The Desert region is arid and rural. Each community is distinct. Local economies have historically been tied to mining but are now increasingly tied to tourism. Each of these communities contributes to the rich tapestry of San Bernardino County, reflecting the diverse ways people adapt to and thrive in their environments.
Organization: Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG)
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Project Planning & Management, Community & Stakeholder Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Western Riverside County Clean Cities Coalition, hosted by Western Riverside Council of Governments, serves 14 cities in the Western Riverside County Subregion. The Coalition assists municipalities with deployment of zero-emission vehicles and infrastructure through partnership building, outreach and engagement, and technical support.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The fellow would assist with facilitation of the Inland Zero Emission Vehicle Network, which works to build partnerships and increase access to resources for zero-emission vehicle and infrastructure deployment in the Inland Empire. The fellow would assist with agenda development, meeting facilitation and note taking, report preparation, engagement of industry speakers and participants, and development of tools to support information sharing. The fellow would also assist with designing and implementing community engagement activities related to the Western Riverside County Municipal Green Zones project. This would include identifying and engaging site hosts, helping with preparation of outreach materials, staffing booths and talking with visitors, and preparing summaries and report-outs.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Our organization serves Western Riverside County, a fast-growing region in inland Southern California. Poor air quality and a quickly growing logistics industry create unique challenges that must be addressed. Vehicles and infrastructure are a significant contributor to these challenges, and our work makes a real difference in supporting a transition to clean fuels. Many of our members want to transition to clean fuels, and look to us to help provide the necessary resources.
Organization: Fontana Unified School District
Location: Fontana, CA
Openings: 2
Desired Skills: Project Planning, Community & Stakeholder Engagement, Relationship Management
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Agencies Served
The Student Led Enterprise project in Fontana Unified School District serves high school Career Technical Education students, local industry partners, the city of Fontana, and the greater Fontana community. The project addresses critical community planning needs by preparing students for careers in high-demand sectors such as energy, construction, engineering, and product design. Through integrated, cross-pathway collaboration, students engage in authentic work-based learning experiences that reflect real-world challenges and opportunities. Local industry partners will build meaningful relationships with potential employees through purpose-driven interactions and mentorships, widening the pool of skilled job candidates. The initiative supports economic development by cultivating a local workforce aligned with regional industry needs.
Community Identified Priorities
The economic forecasts for the city of Fontana project a need for growth in the industries listed above in order to raise the median income levels of residents and encourage families to lay down roots to stay in the community. This enterprise model empowers students as problem-solvers and innovators, while fostering equity and access to attainable career opportunities that are close to home. Ultimately, the project strengthens school-to-career pipelines and supports the district’s long-term vision for sustainable community growth.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Project Goals
• Provide real-world, student-led enterprise experiences
• Engage diverse Career Technical Education pathway students in collaborative, interdisciplinary projects
• Establish vertical alignment between middle school, high school, and adult learners
• Promote career awareness, technical skill acquisition, and post-secondary readiness
Role of the Fellow
•Support the development phase of the Student Led Enterprise project by helping solicit funding and partnerships through community outreach
•Contribute to the design of a rotating student leadership and mentorship system
•Advise on curriculum development, identify instructional needs, and procure necessary resources
•Serve as liaison with community and industry partners
•Assist in creating data collection systems
•Assist in establishing promotional campaigns
Desired Project Outcomes
•Formalized industry and college partnerships/MOUs
•Digital portfolio platforms for students
•Analysis of pre- and post-survey data to demonstrate outcomes
•Dynamic course outlines aligned with project-based learning tenets
Increased Capacity for Fontana Unified School District
•Provide roadmaps for launching additional Student Led Enterprises for high-need industry sectors
•Empower students to secure meaningful employment that provides a living wage and encourages community stability
•Invest students in civic engagement through collaborative problem-solving while addressing local needs and challenges
•Fulfill the district’s vision of realizing a student-centered Learner Profile aligned to the future-ready needs of the region
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Fontana, California, is a fast-growing city in the Inland Empire, about an hour east of Los Angeles. Originally founded as an agricultural town and later transformed by the steel industry during World War II, Fontana continues to evolve, serving as a major center for logistics and transportation thanks to its prime location near major freeways. It’s also home to strong healthcare, education, and public service sectors, offering a range of professional pathways that are projected to expand over the next 10 years.
Fontana is experiencing significant growth. Projections indicate an estimated increase of 75,000 residents by 2045, which indicates a need for affordable housing, clean energy options, and a thriving creative and entertainment hub for local residents. The city is actively revitalizing its downtown area, with new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Key projects include the reimagined Stage Red Theater and the development of a pedestrian-friendly Sierra Plaza, aiming to make downtown a regional destination.
Fontana is also committed to providing affordable housing options. Initiatives like the Aldea Apartments and Sierra Fountains offer quality homes for lower-income families, ensuring that residents have access to safe and affordable living spaces. Education is a cornerstone of the community. The Fontana Unified School District has received accolades for its excellence, with several schools recognized as California Distinguished Schools and earning spots on the U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools list.
For CivicSpark Fellows, Fontana offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful work within a community that values growth, inclusivity, and innovation. The city’s initiatives in urban development, housing, and education provide a rich environment for professional development and community impact.
Organization: City of Adelanto
Location: Adelanto, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Planning & Management, Bilingual
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The City of Adelanto is a disadvantaged community in the High Desert Region of San Bernardino. The city suffers under various restrictions to its economic growth, one of which is its ability to provide power to new users.
The scope of this fellowship will be to work with the IREN team to do an energy assessment of the city’s assets, support the implementation of energy optimization at city owned assets, and provide a portfolio of tools for existing businesses to lower their energy consumption. The outcome of the fellowship will be new availability in local power that will be available for incoming companies.
Dr. Gil Keinan, the main contact for the fellow, works with the City of Adelanto and the City of Barstow. Subject to the identification of the right candidate we may want to split the time between 2 governments, instead of one.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City of Adelanto is a disadvantaged community in the High Desert Region of San Bernardino. The city suffers under various restrictions to its economic growth, one of which is its ability to provide power to new users.
The scope of this fellowship will be to work with the IREN team to do an energy assessment of the city’s assets, support the implementation of energy optimization at city owned assets, and provide a portfolio of tools for existing businesses to lower their energy consumption. The outcome of the fellowship will be new availability in local power that will be available for incoming companies.
Dr. Gil Keinan, the main contact for the fellow, works with the City of Adelanto and the City of Barstow. Subject to the identification of the right candidate we may want to split the time between 2 governments, instead of one.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The City of Adelanto is an employer friendly, pro business community. The city is quickly growing and is always on the look out for new talent to foster and help grow. Because the city is very contractor heavy, the opportunities for growth are great, and the Fellow would have direct interaction with City Management and Council. A quickly growing community, the city has been recognized as one of the fastest growing communities in the Inland Empire. There is a lot of impact that a Fellow could have on the long term.
Organization: Mission Springs Water District
Location: Desert Hot Springs, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Marketing, Project Management, Stakeholder & Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Communications and Community Planning Needs
Communications Needs
Effective communication is at the heart of the success of the Conservation as a Way of Life campaign, particularly for the Mission Springs Water District (MSWD). The project requires a robust community engagement strategy that educates and mobilizes residents to support water conservation efforts. Key elements include:
•Educational Outreach: Informing the community about conservation goals and practical strategies, such as replacing non-functional turf, using rebate programs, and tuning up evaporative coolers.
•Behavioral Change Messaging: Developing compelling content that inspires residents to adopt water-saving practices.
•Brand-Consistent Materials: Collaborating with the Communications Specialist to create flyers, social media posts, and other materials aligned with MSWD’s branding.
•Stakeholder Engagement: Building trust and rapport with diverse community groups and stakeholders to broaden participation in conservation efforts.
Community Planning Needs
The Conservation as a Way of Life campaign also addresses critical community planning challenges. These include:
•Water Usage Compliance: MSWD must reduce water usage by as much as 35% to avoid penalties from the State of California.
•Data-Driven Opportunities: Leveraging GIS analysis to identify areas such as non-functional turf that can be targeted for conservation initiatives.
•Capacity Building: Enhancing internal and external capabilities to implement rebate programs and efficient water use strategies.
•Funding Opportunities: Exploring grant writing support to secure resources from the State Water Resources Board and the CV Integrated Regional Water Management Plan group.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Capacity-Building Projects
The Fellow selected for this initiative will lead capacity-building projects designed to support MSWD’s compliance and community engagement goals. These projects leverage collaboration with internal staff and community stakeholders to ensure effective implementation.
1. Community Engagement Strategy
Overarching Goals: To develop a comprehensive community engagement strategy that promotes water conservation practices and aligns with MSWD’s compliance plan.
Role of the Fellow: The Fellow will work closely with MSWD’s Communications Specialist to craft outreach materials, host workshops, and conduct public campaigns aimed at educating residents and fostering active participation.
Desired Outcomes:
•A detailed community engagement strategy document.
•Branded educational materials, including brochures and digital content.
•Increased community awareness and participation in conservation programs.
Capacity Impact: These resources will empower MSWD to effectively communicate its conservation goals, build community trust, and gain compliance with state-mandated water usage reductions.
2. Rebate and Grant-Funded Program Enhancements
Overarching Goals: To develop, enhance, and promote rebate programs and grant-funded initiatives that motivate water-saving actions among residents.
Role of the Fellow: Collaborating with the Assistant General Manager, the Fellow will refine existing rebate programs such as evaporative cooler tune-ups and explore opportunities for new grant-funded initiatives.
Desired Outcomes:
•Improved rebate program designs and marketing strategies.
•New grant proposals submitted to funding bodies.
•Increased uptake of rebates and grant-funded programs by residents.
Capacity Impact: By boosting rebate participation and securing grants, the Fellow will help MSWD provide tangible incentives for water conservation while enhancing its financial and operational capacity.
3. GIS-Driven Conservation Opportunities
Overarching Goals: To utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to identify high-impact areas for water-saving efforts, such as non-functional turf zones.
Role of the Fellow: Partnering with the GIS Specialist, the Fellow will analyze data to locate areas with the most significant water-saving potential and recommend targeted interventions.
Desired Outcomes:
•A GIS report identifying priority conservation areas.
•Actionable recommendations for conservation measures.
•Metrics to track the success of implemented strategies.
Capacity Impact: This data-driven approach will enable MSWD to focus its resources where they are most needed, ensuring measurable progress toward water usage reduction targets.
Specific Agencies Served
MSWD is the primary agency benefiting from this project. Key capacity needs addressed include:
•Workforce Collaboration: The Fellow will integrate with MSWD staff, including the Business Analyst for state reporting, the GIS Specialist, and the Communications Specialist, to ensure a multidisciplinary approach.
•Fundraising Support: The Fellow will assist in grant writing to secure funding from entities like the State Water Resources Board and the CV Integrated Regional Water Management Plan group.
Community Priorities and Challenges
The project aligns with community-identified priorities by addressing critical challenges, such as:
•Achieving significant water usage reduction to meet state mandates and avoid penalties.
•Engaging diverse community members in adopting water-saving practices.
•Developing innovative, targeted programs that offer real benefits to residents while managing resources efficiently.
This holistic approach ensures that MSWD not only meets its compliance goals but also builds a sustainable culture of conservation within the community.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Desert Hot Springs, located in the picturesque Coachella Valley of Southern California, is a vibrant community known for its rich cultural diversity, natural wonders, and resilience in overcoming challenges. Despite being a disadvantaged community, Desert Hot Springs offers a compelling blend of opportunity and charm that makes it an extraordinary place to live and work.
The community is home to a wide variety of cultures and ethnicities, with residents from diverse backgrounds contributing to its unique social fabric. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, cultural events, and community celebrations that make Desert Hot Springs a lively and inclusive place to call home. From local art galleries to festivals celebrating the area’s heritage, the community thrives on its ability to bring people together.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Desert Hot Springs is its natural geothermic hot springs, which have earned the city a reputation as a wellness destination. Visitors and residents alike enjoy the therapeutic properties of these mineral-rich waters, which are considered among the purest in the world. This natural treasure not only enhances the quality of life but also supports tourism, creating opportunities for local businesses.
Although Desert Hot Springs faces significant economic challenges, such as high unemployment and limited access to resources, the community demonstrates a strong commitment to growth and sustainability. Local organizations and agencies, such as MSWD, work diligently to address critical issues like water conservation and resource management, ensuring a better future for residents.
The area’s stunning desert landscape, with its breathtaking mountain views and proximity to Joshua Tree National Park, offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking, stargazing, and exploring the natural beauty of the desert are part of everyday life, making it an inspiring backdrop for those who live and work here.
For Fellows, Desert Hot Springs presents the chance to make a tangible difference in a community that is actively striving to overcome adversity. The resilience, diversity, and natural beauty of the area create an environment that is both challenging and rewarding, offering a meaningful opportunity to contribute to lasting change.
Organization: WRCOG/ I-REN
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Data Analysis, Project Planning & Management, Facilitation
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Historically, the Inland Empire has experienced underinvestment and lacks participation and progress towards California’s energy goals. The Inland Regional Energy Network (I-REN) was formed as a partnership based on our shared belief in saving energy and increasing equity for residents, businesses, and local governments throughout San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The I-REN’s is committed to providing opportunities for communities to shape a better energy future, delivering both energy efficiency and financial savings, and providing equitable access to a vast range of energy-efficiency resources.
The I-REN is funded by public purpose funding collected by investor owned utilities in the Inland Empire, and as such is challenged with providing its Public Sector services to agencies served by municipal utilities. The I-REN would like to create a pathway to provide energy benchmarking and energy data analysis to agencies served by municipal electric utilities, such as the Cities of Banning, Corona, Moreno Valley, and Riverside. The pathway includes receiving training in energy benchmarking and utility data analysis in order to provide the services to agencies in lieu of using utility funding for these services. This activity would not only provide this service to the public agencies served by municipal utilities, but would also provide technical training to the Fellow.
The Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) is one of the partner agencies that administer the I-REN, and with its experience in energy it works to unify western Riverside County so that it can speak collectively on issues that affect its members. Power outages in western Riverside County have been increasingly impactful to local government operations and critical facilities. WRCOG’s Energy Resilience Plan 2.0 is exploring the feasibility to implement microgrids and community resilience centers across the subregion to support agencies and their communities during power outages and emergency events.
WRCOG also acts the Regional Ambassador to Southern California Gas Company’s Regional Energy Pathways Program. As the Regional Ambassador, WRCOG provides outreach and engagement to public agencies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties to promote energy efficiency and assist in meeting California’s energy goals. Through this outreach, WRCOG informs public agencies of SoCalGas’ Energy Efficiency Programs and facilitates participation in receiving energy efficiency services, promotes SoCalGas’ programs, and facilitates close coordination with the I-REN to further promote energy efficiency projects and resources.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Inland Regional Energy Network (I-REN) would like to support public agencies served by municipal electric utilities (Cities of Banning, Corona, Riverside, Moreno Valley) with energy benchmarking and electric analysis. Due to stringent rules around I-REN funding, I-REN’s consultants are unable to provide these services to agencies served by municipal utilities. The role of the Fellow would be to become trained in energy benchmarking and utility data analysis and ultimately provide these services to the Cities of Banning, Corona, Moreno Valley, and Riverside. The Fellow would be trained in these services and support in organizing training modules so that this knowledge can be passed on to future fellows or staff at the agency. The Fellow would review and analyze energy data, develop a report that summarizes the agency’s energy consumption throughout its building and facility portfolio, and present this information to agency staff. This service would support the agency with understanding energy consumption and utility costs at their facilities so they can plan for energy efficiency projects that reduce consumption, reduce costs, increase resilience, and help meet California’s energy goals.
Through the I-REN’s Workforce, Education and Training sector, I-REN would like to create opportunities and organize cohorts of public agency staff in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties to be trained and acquire energy-related certifications. Currently, the I-REN is considering providing funding to support public agency staff with participating in a Certified Energy Auditor Training Program and a Building Operator Certification Program. The role of the Fellow is to support with researching certification programs, conducting outreach and engagement with public agencies to organize a cohort of interested public agency staff, and secure the programs to provide training and certifications here locally. The Fellow would prepare reports of potential training programs, associated costs, and eligibility criteria. The Fellow would then conduct outreach and engagement with 52+ public agencies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties to organize a cohort of staff interested in receiving this training, and secure the program to provide this training. The Fellow would support I-REN with creating a training program that supports public agencies with training their staff to help conduct energy audits at their facilities, and ensure that all building equipment and systems are opertating in an energy efficiency manner to help reduce energy consumption, costs, and make reduce GHG emissions.
WRCOG is currently developing an Energy Resilience Plan (ERP) 2.0 which is assisting 18 Cities and the County of Riverside with feasibility studies to determine if microgrids and community resilience centers can be implemented at agency-owned facilities. The Fellow would assist with coordinating with our grant partner, Grid Alternatives, with community outreach and engagement to seek public input on programs and services that can help increase community resilience in the event of a power outage or emergency event. The Fellow would coordinate with the I-REN team to encourage participation in I-REN’s Public sector as a first step towards achieving energy resilience. The Fellow would also coordinate with WRCOG’s member agencies to determine which agencies are ready to seek funding in order to implement a feasible project identified by the ERP 2.0, and assist with preparing for a grant application.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
WRCOG serves 18 Cities, the County of Riverside, and 2 water districts in western Riverside County. The geographic boundary can be identified by the western borders of Riverside County (Eastvale, Corona, Norco), south to Temecula, north to Riverside, Moreno Valley, Calimesa and Banning, and east to Hemet and San Jacinto. While we do cover a more suburban area of Riverside County, our subregion has an urban feel in the more populous cities such as Riverside, and a more rural feel in smaller cities such as Wildomar. This provides a unique challenge and opportunity for Fellows to work with agencies of various sizes and resources from the larger and more equipped cities, to the smaller and more resource-constrained agencies. As a growing region, there is a lot of opportunity to support public agencies in the energy sector due to historic underinvestment in the community and lack of knowledge. This region can also provide insights into how cities of various sizes and backgrounds work and develop.
Organization:Science & Technology Education Partnership (STEM- IREN)
Location: Riverside, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Marketing, Project Planning & Management, Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Science & Technology Education Partnership (STEP) is planning to have Energy Efficiency Projects working through the I-REN Public Sector pipeline and we will be utilizing this Fellow to manage that process. In addition, the STEM Programming Liaison (SPL) will support the STEP organization by identifying and connecting with community energy resources that would benefit STEP programming. These resources include but are not limited to potential exhibitors, presenters, and sponsorship sources. The SPL will assist in developing these resources so that they are available for STEP programs. This work will grow the STEP STEM Ecosystem in order to directly support students, teachers, and counselors in the Inland Empire so that they can have full access to all available resources.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Science & Technology Education Partnership (STEP) is planning to have Energy Efficiency Projects working through the I-REN Public Sector pipeline and we will be utilizing this Fellow to manage that process. The Science & Technology Education Partnership (STEP) needs assistance in expanding our Ecosystem in order to maximize resources available for students, teachers, and counselors in the Inland Empire. The Fellow would identify, contact, and develop potential partners. The Fellow would host these partners at STEP events and determine opportunities for increased partnerships. Project outcomes include increases in STEP partners, increased programming, and more accessible resources for the Inland Empire. With increased resources and programming, STEP can serve additional students, teachers, and counselors throughout the Inland Empire, with special focus on underserved areas.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Home to over 4 million people, the metropolitan area consists of Riverside County and San Bernardino County, making it the 12th most populous metropolitan area in the United States and the third largest in the state of California. The City of Riverside, where STEP is based is the city of Arts and Innovation with a vibrant downtown with many restaurants, museums, and theaters. Riverside is one of the most affordable locations in Southern California.
Organization: Cathedral City
Location: Cathedral City, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Public Speaking, Bilingual, Project Planning , Stakeholder & Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
This position will play a key role in updating the City’s Climate Action Plan, grants assistance, and providing leadership within the I-Ren Fellowship Program. The selected individual will also contribute to a range of environmental initiatives aimed at reducing energy use, improving air quality, preserving the local landscape and historical assets, and creating long-term benefits for the community.
As part of this role, the fellow will help develop and lead educational tours, collaborate with other fellows, and actively engage in I-Ren programs across multiple agencies. They will gain experience working on both IREN-led and Cathedral City-led initiatives, including environmental programs, grant development, local planning efforts, and community outreach—particularly in underserved, disadvantaged, and historically marginalized areas.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
I-REN Fellowship Leadership Program Responsibilities:
Program Coordination & Leadership:
Lead and support the I-REN Fellowship Leadership Program by scheduling events, coordinating with community volunteers, and serving as a liaison between I-REN program managers and the City.
Workforce, Education & Training Support:
Assist with initiatives in the workforce, education, and training sectors under the I-REN Program, including community meetings, the development of outreach and educational materials, and coordination with consultants for the City’s Climate Action Plan update.
Outreach & Event Planning:
Support the planning and execution of I-REN and City-led outreach events. Responsibilities include presenting at City Council meetings, tracking tasks and timelines, creating educational flyers, and representing the City and I-REN at external events.
Regional and Local Collaboration:
Build and maintain partnerships with regional and local agencies focused on environmental programs and funding opportunities.
Sustainability Planning & Implementation:
Contribute to key environmental planning efforts, including the Climate Action Plan, Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Plan, and citywide resiliency strategies. Assist in securing grant funding and strengthen collaboration with local agencies to advance sustainability goals.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Located in the Coachella Valley alongside nine other cities, Cathedral City has long been a regional leader in environmental conservation, sustainability, and natural resource preservation. As the second-largest city in the Valley, Cathedral City is home to a diverse population, including a large Hispanic working-class community, active local youth and a significant number of senior residents.
The City is deeply committed to environmental progress, regularly collaborating with neighboring municipalities and utility providers to develop and implement energy management and efficiency programs aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting vital resources.
Cathedral City reinforced its environmental commitment by appointing a dedicated Environmental Conservation Manager (ECM), a role currently held by Deanna Pressgrove. With over a decade of experience in the field, Deanna has led numerous successful initiatives focused on recycling, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation—significantly improving environmental conditions throughout the community.
Organization: Cucamonga Valley Water District
Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Openings: 1
Desired Skills: Graphic Design, Project Management , Stakeholder & Community Engagement
ABOUT THE PROJECT
This position with provide assistance with water use efficiency programs and messaging within CVWD’s service area and surrounding areas, and will include assisting in the implementation of new programs, promotion of existing programs, and evaluation of water savings for past, present and future programs. This individual will help identify customers who will benefit most from these programs including disadvantaged communities, high water users, and other potential groups. Additionally, the individual may seek out grant funding and other opportunities to help further build and fund CVWD’s water use efficiency programs, which is a huge challenge. Overall, this individual will help connect CVWD customers to available programs and resources while helping the community to be as water efficient as possible.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Water Savvy Parkway Transformation Program
-The goal of the program is to transform approximately 60 residential parkways (the grass area between the sidewalk and street) into water saving landscapes that set the example for the community
help promote this new program to disadvantaged customers in CVWD’s service area
-confirm eligibility and sign customers up for this program while walking them through all of the details
-help field and answer participant questions throughout the program
Water Use Efficiency Programs Promotion- Commercial, Industrial, Institutional (CII) Customers
-The goal is to connect with our CII customers to help them be more water efficient
-Implement a marketing campaign targeted towards CVWD’s non-residential customers
-Promote water saving devices and rebates available
-Educate and create awareness of a new law passed which bans the watering of non-functional grass for CII customers
Other Water Use Efficiency Marketing by using Wavelet dashboard
-the state passed a law requiring communities to save more water, and CVWD will be connecting with customers on a deeper level to work with them to make greater steps to saving water
-Connecting with the community to share water use efficiency may include social media, mailers, events, and other innovative ways to help share our message in a positive way
-CVWD is using the California Data Collaborative’s dashboard, Wavelet, to help analyze water usage amongst customers and identify water savings opportunities. Wavelet is a new dashboard and CVWD is currently exploring the tool and getting it set up with our customer data to make the tool as useful as possible for our program strategies.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
CVWD’s service area includes the City of Rancho Cucamonga, portions of the cities of Fontana, Ontario, Upland, and some unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County.
CVWD serves a population of over 200,000 people within a 47-square-mile area, which includes approximately 50,000 water connections and 38,000 sewer connections with an average daily demand of approximately 39 million gallons of water per day. Our service area consists of a booming community, including but not limited to Victoria Gardens, a large outdoor mall and place for community events, the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes minor league baseball team, and multiple highly active sports and community centers.