Welcome to our first edition of “Active Recap,” a new monthly series where we share highlights from the many events, meetings, and community efforts that keep us moving forward. ActiveSGV’s work goes beyond the big events; it’s also the day-to-day conversations, planning sessions, and on-the-ground activities that shape our impact in the San Gabriel Valley. Each month, we’ll offer a behind-the-scenes look at our team’s efforts to foster healthier, more sustainable, and connected communities. Here’s a peek at what we’ve been up to this October!
October has been a full month at ActiveSGV, packed with community events, learning opportunities, and creative collaborations. We kicked off the month at the Clean Mobility Forum in Pasadena, where transportation and community development experts came together to share insights on sustainable transit and equity-focused design. The event reinforced the importance of building partnerships and highlighted strategies to support inclusive, environmentally friendly transportation in our region—knowledge we’re eager to bring to future initiatives across the San Gabriel Valley.
One of our favorite parts of the month was connecting with students for Walk to School Day. In partnership with El Monte and South El Monte school districts, we walked alongside students and community members, emphasizing the benefits of active transportation and safety. Starting the day on foot together was a fantastic reminder of how simple, everyday activities can strengthen connections, build healthier habits, and support safe routes for kids.
Celebrating local natural spaces, we hosted two events in honor of the San Gabriel National Monument’s 10th anniversary and its recent expansion. On the Gabrielino Trail, participants joined us for an inspiring hike that took us across rivers to reach the dam, enjoying the natural beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains. We also hosted PumpkinFest, where families painted pumpkins and made pumpkin pancakes, engaging in hands-on activities celebrating the season and our shared green spaces.
This month, we also took a meaningful trip to Atlanta to see the transformative impact of the Beltline, a 22-mile greenway loop that repurposes old railways to connect communities. Experiencing the Beltline firsthand brought up exciting possibilities for similar greenways in our area. Atlanta’s example underscored how community-centered, car-free spaces can improve mobility, foster social connection, support local businesses, and beautify neighborhoods. We look forward to exploring ways to bring these concepts back to the San Gabriel Valley.
Between these community events, we took time for team outings, including the Santa Barbara 100, a challenging and scenic bike ride along the coast and through the hills of Santa Barbara. Our team members took on the 100 KM and 34-mile rides, with one teammate completing the entire course on a folding bike! It was a memorable day of camaraderie, fitness, and breathtaking views.
In addition to these events, October was also a time for gathering community input, which remains central to our mission. In preparation for the Ana Montenegro Mini Park development in Baldwin Park, we reached out to residents for their ideas and feedback to ensure the space reflects the community’s needs and vision. At Pomona’s Trunk or Treat event, we put a sustainable spin on Halloween by decorating a cargo bike and sharing information on GoSGV, water conservation, and ITIN—connecting with residents in a festive, eco-friendly way. These efforts are just a glimpse of the Climate Team’s work this month, including fourteen tabling events and four canvassing sessions.
We capped off October with a well-deserved team outing to Bonelli Park, where we took to the water on kayaks and paddle boards. The break offered time to recharge, reflect on a busy month, and connect as a team. With these experiences and insights, we’re looking forward to building on this month’s momentum. We are ready to engage even more deeply with our community and push forward on projects that support an equitable, accessible, and sustainable San Gabriel Valley.
We’re grateful for the community’s support and everyone who joined us this October. With fresh insights, new connections, and a shared commitment to a sustainable San Gabriel Valley, we’re ready for what’s next. Thank you for following along, and stay tuned for more updates in the following Active Recap! To participate in our events in November, be sure to sign up for the ActiveSGV newsletter!
