On a brisk evening in November 2024, dozens of our South Bay supporters gathered at the cozy San Jose home of our 2024 Hidden Hero, Michael Brilliot, and his wife, Reena, for our South Bay Happy Hour. This annual event aims to bring together both new and longtime local supporters to receive updates about Greenbelt Alliance’s work and learn ways to plug in. This year, board members, staff, local government officials, and residents mingled over wine and hors d’oeuvres and discussed visions for a climate resilient South Bay. Scroll through our photos below!
We heard from Victorina Arvelo, our South Bay Resilience Manager, who updated us on our work in Gilroy and East San José. She shared exciting news about two planned resilience hubs as part of our ongoing efforts through the California Strategic Growth Council’s Community Resilience Centers program.
These resilience hubs will serve as year-round gathering spots to host programs that prepare residents for climate hazards and build climate resilience, provide refuge and aid during climate emergencies, and strengthen community bonds.
As Victorina discussed at the Happy Hour, we’re still in the early stages of the project, with our primary focus on gathering a broad coalition of stakeholders who can support the creation and long-term sustainability of the resilience hubs. This can be anywhere from child care resources to climate adaptation plans to strengthening community ties. If you know of a South Bay organization interested in getting involved, please reach out to Victorina at varvelo@greenbelt.org.
We are grateful for everyone who came out to this event to hear updates about our work and how to get more involved. We could not do this work without our supporters who help us build a climate resilient future—not only for the South Bay Area but for all nine counties.
We hope to see you at the next annual gathering! If you would like to get more involved with Greenbelt Alliance and support our mission, please don’t hesitate to reach out to varvelo@greenbelt.org.
Photo courtesy of Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority.
