Through the Forgotten Voices campaign, CRPE works with residents of the San Joaquin Valley to advocate for fair land use policies and the expansion of access to essential public services such as safe housing, transportation, stable jobs, and reliable neighborhood infrastructure in unincorporated areas and small rural towns.
Historically, these communities have often been left out of important planning and investment. With the help of CRPE, these residents form and lead their own local organizations, some of which become incorporated nonprofits. Together, we identify community needs and use those priorities to shape proposals for General Plan updates and annual County Budget decisions. Through this process, residents advocate for the changes they want to see in their community.
The Forgotten Voices campaign is grounded in the belief that lasting change comes from within communities. By supporting residents as they organize, lead, and advocate for their own needs, the campaign helps build local power and self-determination by amplifying the voices of those too often forgotten in the San Joaquin Valley.
Projects
Infrastructure
Our infrastructure projects aim to ensure that communities have access to essential public needs and municipal services, including healthy jobs, homes and local community infrastructure. We hold space for community to assess their needs and make decisions based on what affects them and help them collectively advocate for community infrastructure projects, such as sidewalks, street lights, electricity, parks, bike paths, community gardens and more.
Healthy and Resilient Homes and Buildings
CRPE aims to achieve energy justice and clean energy transition in buildings and homes while protecting communities most affected. This includes working on utility affordability and equitable building decarbonization on a state and local level.
Land Use
CRPE aims to achieve healthy land uses in the San Joaquin Valley. We establish health-protective standards for warehousing and other industrial projects closest to disadvantaged communities in Kern, including strong and enforceable community benefits, community involvement, and strong labor standards.