Perspectives

Sprouting Seeds of Change: A Reflection on Our Time in Orange County

Our time in Orange County came at a critical juncture, a moment when the stakes feel especially high and the challenges facing our communities are mounting. And yet, what we witnessed was not accidental. It was the result of years of community-driven investment, vision, and organizing. We saw the fierce determination and steadfast leadership of grassroots organizers, many of whom began as youth leaders, now guiding multiracial, intersectional movements that are transforming systems and reimagining what is possible. We showed up not just to observe, but to be fully present—to listen, to learn, and to let our path forward be shaped by the wisdom and brilliance of community.

From our community reception to the site visits in Little Saigon and Santa Ana, one truth was clear: the solutions to our challenges already exist within community. Philanthropy must meet this moment with courage—to break down silos, blur the lines between institution and movement, and bring all our tools in service of a better future. That means stepping into the moment and showing up not as gatekeepers, but as partners and co-conspirators in the fight for justice.

In a time marked by deep uncertainty and renewed attacks on racial equity and justice, our time in Orange County was a powerful reminder of both what is at stake and what is possible. Standing in community with our board, staff, and partners, we witnessed the brilliance and resilience of those leading transformative change. We left not only inspired, but with renewed clarity and a deeper resolve to bring every resource and our full voice to this work.

What we heard from community leaders in Orange County was both sobering and galvanizing. During our first panel, we listened to organizers from across the region— Arab American Civic Council, Chispa, Orange County Civic Engagement Table, and Viet Rainbow OC—who spoke about the long-term work of building a multiracial democracy in the face of growing backlash. They reminded us that cross-racial solidarity is not a theory; it’s a daily practice that requires deep relationship, trust, and the courage to confront systemic harm together.

At La Colmena, leaders from Community Hub de Santa Ana, Cooperación Santa Ana, CRECE Urban Farms, SALSA (Santa Ana Locally Supported Agriculture) Cooperative, and THRIVE Santa Ana Community Land Trust, shared powerful examples of community ownership and regenerative economic models that center immigrant voices, land stewardship, worker cooperatives, local self-determination, and intergenerational leadership. These aren’t just innovations; they are blueprints for the just future we know is possible when resources are entrusted to those closest to the work.

As we look forward to the next chapter of our work in Orange County, we’re proud to mark two milestones that will deepen our presence and sharpen our impact. We welcomed Katie Nguyen Kalvoda, Founder and CEO of G3 Ventures, as our first Orange County-based board member in July 2023. Her deep roots and bold leadership bring invaluable insight to our governance and reinforce our long-standing commitment to the region.

We also welcomed Nancy Mejia as our Program Officer for Orange County last year. Nancy brings two decades of experience in grassroots advocacy and systems change, and an unwavering dedication to equity. Her leadership will help refine our strategy, strengthen our partnerships, and carry forward the powerful legacy of organizing in the region.

Weingart Foundation has long believed that those closest to the challenges are closest to the solutions. Our work in Orange County reflects that truth. We remain committed to resourcing community organizing and racial justice work in the region and will continue to walk alongside partners to advance a multiracial democracy and an economy grounded in dignity, equity, and self-determination.

In a time of darkness, we witnessed light. And with that light, we left Orange County more resolute than ever to step into the moment—with boldness, clarity, and deep love for our communities.