Central California Consortium

In 2010, the CCC added a component to its program focusing on the central valley African American community. The CCC is actively providing outreach and recruitment, environmental education, as well as resources to the community. The long term goal is to establish lasting relationships and bridge the gap between the agency and the African American community.

The CCC hired an African American Liaison to focus on maintaining relationships and establishing new partnerships in the community. She is a reliable contact for the community, as well as a positive role model for youth.

Local African American Community Events

On a local level, the CCC provides outreach in collaboration with surrounding educational institutions, churches, and other youth organizations and community groups. The CCC was awarded a Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District grant to fund an Environmental Education Day for Edison High School of West Fresno. Students participated in interactive workshops which allowed them to see firsthand, where their water comes from. Students also learned about the exciting recreational and Forest Service career opportunities, our public lands have to offer. The CCC also participated in California State University, Fresno’s 29th Annual African American High School Recruitment Conference. The CCC’s workshop provided awareness of the Forest Service and encouraged African American youth to pursue a higher education and careers in natural resources. In addition, the CCC also hosted the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Connection Workshop in West Fresno. The event highlighted Forest Service scholarships and internship programs and guided students through the application, and selection process.

Community Partners

• Fresno County Equal Opportunity Commission
• Fresno Local Conservation Corps
• Fresno Unified School District
• Edison High School
• Edison Computech Middle School
• Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District