Community Environmental Council (CEC) is now enrolling for the next session of its Climate Stewards certification course, designed to engage and empower any individual on the Central Coast to take action on climate change.

CEC is the first and only nonprofit in the region to deliver the Climate Stewards certification program in partnership with the UC Environmental Stewards program, and one of only a handful across the state.
 
“If you’ve been waiting for an opportunity to lead environmental action in your community, that time is now,” said Kathi King, course instructor and CEC director of Outreach and Education.

“Grassroots action is now more critical than ever to combat climate change and protect our communities,” she said. “Our Climate Stewards program is designed to foster connection, confidence, and inspiration for community-based environmental action.”

The Spring 2025 eight-week course will meet weekly, April 16 through June 4. Prospective participants can sign up online to join the next cohort of Climate Stewards.

For more details about the program view a webinar here.
 
Class sessions are held online via Zoom. The course also includes in-person field trips, most on Saturdays. Each cohort consists of a diverse group of about 20 individuals.

The curriculum includes online modules, peer-to-peer discussions, small group activities, hands-on and inquiry-based activities, and experiential learning.

“Participants will gain access to climate action resources and opportunities to join the movement — and will graduate with a better understanding of the psychology and science behind climate change, the tools necessary to forge greater community connections, and the knowledge to effectively communicate the climate crisis,” the CEC said.
 
The curriculum also includes a stewardship project where participants can explore a passion project. Previous projects have succeeded in adding climate programs and messaging at foundations, large nonprofits, city governments, and retirement communities.

A number of Climate Steward course graduates have gone on to integrate climate action into their professional and volunteer efforts, according to the CEC.
 
“Becoming a Climate Steward gives you ‘climate credibility’ if you want to pursue other climate-related efforts in the community,” said Maureen Ellenberger, Climate Steward alumn.
“The course also connects you to like-minded people who want to learn about climate impacts and address both adults’ and kids’ anxieties about the climate,” she said.

Ellenberger joined forces with CEC Climate Projects associate Ana Rico for their course project to develop bilingual curricula for school teachers that introduces young students (and their parents) to climate-related careers and connects local schools to climate professionals.

Through their project, Ellenberger and Rico are delivering curricula and organizing guest speakers — including some fellow Climate Steward alumni — at El Camino Elementary School in Goleta and La Colina Junior High in Santa Barbara.
 
The $350 course fee covers the cost of instructor time for classes and field trips, as well as UC Environmental Stewards program course fees.

Scholarships are available for those who express financial need, and no one will be turned away due to lack of funds.

Learn more about CEC’s Climate Stewards program and sign up here.