Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Pajaro Valley supports a vibrant agricultural community facing increasing threats from climate change and environmental hazards. Many families here deal with extreme heat, wildfire smoke, flooding, and poor air quality – problems made worse by high poverty and housing insecurity. The region ranks in the 90th percentile for poverty, and in the Pajaro community, 80% of residents live in overcrowded conditions. Since 2016, Regeneración has worked to address these urgent challenges by centering the people most affected. The name “Regeneración” means renewal, a fitting vision for restoring both environmental balance and community well-being. The group gathers input through local research, hosts the Climate of Hope forum, helps families access EV rebates up to $14,000, and partners with residents as they share their perspectives in city meetings. Those most impacted are now leading the way toward a healthier, thriving community for generations to come.
Regeneración – Pajaro Valley Climate Action at Watsonville Plaza, June 2019
Nancy Faulstich founded Regeneración after realizing that the people most affected by climate change in Watsonville were rarely included in local decisions about the environment. With a small staff and a strong group of volunteers, she has built an organization rooted in listening, relationship-building, and steady, hands-on work. Regeneración believes that real solutions come from within the community, not from the top down. Having authentic conversations and learning what matters to residents, Regeneración turns concerns into action. Programs like the Mother Earth film series with the Watsonville Film Festival and youth-led mural projects have created opportunities for cultural expression and local storytelling. Regeneración has partnered with Ecology Action to gather data on clean mobility needs and connect families to electric vehicle incentives. Their initiatives such as the Frontline Allies Affinity Group and Young Environmental Justice Activists are expanding opportunities for youth leadership and long-term involvement.