ConocoPhillips’ Santa Maria facility recently donated $30,000 to the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center.
The center provides in-class and after-school environmental science education focused on the delicate Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes ecosystem, which stretches from Pismo Beach to Point Sal. The center also offers after-school and summer programs to local youth through the Boys and Girls Club.
In addition, the Dunes Center guides Oso Flaco Lake field trips that satisfy California K-12 science education requirements through hands-on approaches to science.
The contribution is part of an ongoing partnership between ConocoPhillips and the Dunes Center. In addition to financial support, ConocoPhillips has provided the center with staff volunteers to help with activities and special events.
“ConocoPhillips’ contributions provide direct support to the Dunes Center in the implementation of our mission,” said Mario Castellanos, executive director for the Dunes Center. “With these funds, we will increase our efforts to educate underserved youth in the local Central Coast community through our after-school and summer education programs.”
Part of the mission of the Dunes Center is to promote the conservation and restoration of the dunes ecosystem through education, research, and the support of cooperative stewardship.
Anyone interested in the Dunes Center and its educational programs may call 343-2455 or visit dunescenter.org.
Intern Henry Houston compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at intern@santamariasun.com..
This article appears in Sep 10-17, 2009.