November was a whirlwind of activity here at ActiveSGV! From tree plantings and bike rides to community outreach and skill-building workshops, we’ve been hard at work connecting with residents, supporting environmental initiatives, and showcasing the many ways to explore and enhance the San Gabriel Valley.
Our climate team stayed busy spreading the word about water conservation and gathering community input on projects that make a difference. At Royal Oak Middle School in Covina, we helped share the vision for an exciting school greening initiative, ensuring community members had the chance to provide feedback before construction began. With nine tabling events and two canvassing sessions this month, the team has been an unstoppable force for positive change.
November also allowed us to get outside and make a tangible impact on our local environment. At the Jeff Seymour Family Center, we planted a mix of California native trees, including Big Cone pine, Desert Willows, Palo Verde Desert Museums, and an Engelmann Oak. Our staff has even adopted these young trees to give them the care they need to thrive. Later in the month, we partnered with TreePeople to plant ten trees at Baldwin Mini Park in El Monte, adding more shade and greenery to the neighborhood.
We also hosted several community rides that showcased the beauty and accessibility of the San Gabriel Valley. On November 2, we led an E-asy Access Ride to the Santa Fe Dam Nature Center, where participants enjoyed a scenic 19-mile journey and meaningful connections with fellow riders. Later in the month, our "Bike the Rivers & Hike the Mountains" adventure took riders from the South Pasadena Metro Station along the Arroyo Seco and LA River bike paths, ending at Los Angeles State Historic Park before returning by Metro.
Our Crop Swap at Lopez Urban Farm was a first for ActiveSGV and was truly a highlight of the month! This new initiative brought the community together to share seeds, fruits, vegetables, and flowers, creating a space for connection and resource-sharing. Participants also had the chance to tour the farm, learning about its history, sustainable farming practices, and seasonal crops. Harvesting fresh radishes and joining a yoga session rounded out the event, making it a unique and inspiring day. Crop Swaps like this one are a great way to foster a more robust local food system, support sustainability, and build relationships within the community. The success of our first Crop Swap has us excited to host more in the future!
Additionally, we concluded our Bike Repair Basics class series on November 9 at the Baldwin Park Teen Center. This session focused on teaching attendees how to fix a flat tire—a crucial skill for any cyclist. From removing the wheel to replacing the tube, participants gained hands-on experience to boost their confidence on the road. Offering these classes is an integral part of our mission to empower community members with the knowledge and skills they need to embrace active transportation, and we look forward to hosting more workshops in the future.
Giving Tuesday:
November was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together. From planting trees and teaching bike repair to connecting through community rides and crop swaps, the past month highlighted the transformative potential of collaboration. These efforts improve the livability of the San Gabriel Valley and strengthen the ties that bring our community closer.
Looking ahead, there’s much to be done. Expanding sustainable transportation, supporting environmental stewardship, and fostering community engagement are at the heart of our work. You can help us continue making a difference this Giving Tuesday on December 3. Donate today at www.activesgv.org/donate and be part of shaping a greener, healthier future for the San Gabriel Valley!
