California Coastal Cleanup Day

On Saturday, September 21, 2024, we joined 190 volunteers from across Southern California to take part in the annual California Coastal Cleanup Day in Long Beach, hosted by the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Our gathering spot—72nd Place and East Ocean Blvd.—offered stunning views, a salty breeze, and unfortunately, plenty of trash. This stretch of the Long Beach Peninsula is known to collect both large debris and microplastics due to storm runoff and tides. But thanks to the collective effort of our group and other volunteers, over 1,000 pounds of trash were removed from the shoreline.

Families in our group collected 8 bags, filled mostly with microplastics and small bits of Styrofoam. Kids worked side by side with their moms, carefully picking up pieces and asking thoughtful questions. For many, it became a deeper lesson about the ocean, responsibility, and the power of small acts done with love.

We even had a magical moment when a seal popped up near the shore—a sweet reminder of the wildlife we're helping to protect.

The event wasn't just a cleanup—it was a catalyst for conversations between parents and children about creation care, stewardship, and being present in their community. It was also a joyful day of togetherness under the California sun.

We’re grateful to Shauna Badheka and the entire team at the Aquarium of the Pacific for allowing us to be part of something so meaningful. Your organization made every participant feel welcomed and valued, and the impact was tangible.

If you’d like to make an even greater difference, check if your employer offers volunteer hour matching—many companies will donate financially based on your time spent giving back!

We hope to return next year with even more families, bigger hearts, and an even stronger desire to serve.