WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Mayor Martha Guerrero announced on May 31 that West Sacramento will join Bloomberg Philanthropies’ new Youth Climate Action Fund, which will provide technical assistance and funding for 100 mayors to activate tens of thousands of young people ages of 15 – 24 years to design, produce, and govern urgent climate solutions in cities across the globe.

As part of this program, the City of West Sacramento will receive $50,000 to distribute microgrants to youth-led climate initiatives through a non-profit partner, Breathe California Sacramento Region. From mobilizing tree-planting or public education campaigns to launching recycling or waste reduction programs, this initiative will meet decarbonization commitments and reduce harmful emissions.

Those interested are encouraged to visit https://sacbreathe.org/what-we-do/ycaf to learn more about the Youth Climate Action Fund and how to submit ideas for funding.

“West Sacramento is honored to join this visionary initiative, and I extend my sincere thanks to Bloomberg Philanthropies for their unwavering commitment to addressing the defining issue of our time,” said Mayor Martha Guerrero. “I eagerly anticipate building on our city’s longstanding dedication to combating climate change through proactive environmental stewardship. Partnering with our community’s youth on this vital endeavor is particularly inspiring, and I am excited to see the innovative solutions we will create together.”

As part of the Youth Climate Action Fund, Mayor Guerrero in partnership with Breathe California Sacramento Region has launched an open call for new and ambitious climate efforts led by young people. These ideas may include youth-led awareness, education, research, and development initiatives: including youth-led climate education programs; youth-developed climate surveys and research; youth-informed clubs or curriculum; and youth-designed public art and awareness campaigns.

It will include youth-driven climate mitigation and adaptation projects: including youth-led community gardening, tree planting, reforestation, and urban farming campaigns; youth-managed recycling and waste reduction programs; and youth-produced climate resilience workshops and disaster preparedness programs.

Lastly, it will include co-governed youth climate action plans: including partnerships between city leaders and youth groups to inform climate-related policy ideas, decisions, or actions or the formation of youth climate ambassadors or advisory boards.