Artesia, CA – The City of Artesia is proud to announce it has been awarded a $430,005 Youth Community Access Grant from the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) to launch the Artesia Great Adventure Program, a new 15-month initiative that will expand opportunities for local youth to connect with California’s natural and cultural resources.
The Artesia Great Adventure Program is designed to immerse underserved youth, ages 8 to 18, in California’s natural beauty while fostering environmental stewardship and conservation values. Over the course of the program, participants will take part in 30 trips, along with 40 total days of educational camps during the winter, spring, and summer, providing immersive learning experiences. Together, these experiences will serve more than 1,200 youth participants, encouraging active conservation and deepening their appreciation of California’s environmental treasures.
“This grant allows us to create transformative opportunities for Artesia’s youth,” said Mayor Ali Taj. “The Artesia Great Adventure Program will provide hands-on learning and unforgettable outdoor experiences that inspire the next generation to care for and protect our environment.”
Funding for the Artesia Great Adventure Program comes through the California Natural Resources Agency’s Youth Community Access Grant Program, established by Proposition 68, the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018. The program funds projects that expand youth engagement with natural and cultural resources, increase recreational opportunities, and support education and prevention efforts in underserved communities.
The City anticipates receiving the formal grant agreement in October 2025, with programming scheduled to begin in 2026 and continue through March 2027. The grant will fully fund program costs, including staff, transportation, supplies, and educational programming.
For more information, please contact Edith Guerra, Parks and Recreation Manager at eguerra@cityofartesia.us.