Making connections in a positive light

This time last year, Manker Biah, having recently relocated to California from Atlanta, Georgia, was looking for ways to get involved with his new community. “I had been looking for opportunities to volunteer and put myself out there, to get to know people in a positive light,” he said. “I am an aircraft mechanic for United Airlines. I got a news feed from work that talked about volunteer programs United Airlines supported. When I saw the one for [California State Parks Foundation’s] Earth Day, I jumped on the opportunity.”

California State Parks Foundation’s annual Earth Day celebration is not only a time to give back to California’s amazing state parks, but as Manker learned, it’s also a great opportunity for like-minded individuals to come together and celebrate California. From climate-focused volunteer projects to enjoying each other’s company over lunch, these workdays offer a little something for everyone – especially people new to this great state!

Right away, Manker registered to volunteer. “It was a lot of fun helping out with Earth Day at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area and a great way to connect with coworkers. It was a group of pilots to [bag handlers] management to regular employees like me. It was nice to interact with other coworkers in a new environment and talk with people from different areas.”

A year after his first volunteer experience with California State Parks Foundation, Manker is still an active volunteer and continues to help at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area. “It just feels good to give back and see like-minded people who want to give back,” he said. “Also, at the end of the day, the amount of trash we help remove is impressive.” Manker has plans to continue to explore California state parks, specifically Candlestick Point State Recreation Area. “My girlfriend lived in the area and I didn’t realize a park like that existed. So, when I got a chance to see it I was really impressed. When she comes back to visit we have plans to go hangout at the park more.”

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We hope you will join us at our Earth Day Celebration on April 13 and make a difference (and new friends) at one of our open houses across California. Click here to learn more!

Wildflowers in (super)bloom

Spring came a little early this year and a super bloom is in full effect in a few California state parks! The next few weeks will be prime time to see vibrant blooms across California. We asked some of our supporters to share their favorite state parks to visit during wildflower season!

 

“I love South Yuba River State Park because it embodies the incredible natural beauty of our amazing state!”
– Candice Rogers

 

 

“Having spent some time in many spectacular wild places, my informed favorite California state park is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The geologic diversity, what I call ‘rock drama’ in the dramatic lighting of early and late daylight; the natural history; the fascinating plant and animal life, so much of it easily observed. Chuckwalla, phainopepla, peninsular desert bighorn, kangaroo rat, ocotillo, beaver tail cactus, glowing back-lighted cholla, rabbits, quail, raptors, desert ironwood, a panoply of fascinations. Visit between early December and the first week of April, of course. It’s the desert.”
– Wes Janssen

 

“I love driving down the 1 in the spring and seeing the wildflowers in bloom around Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park. It always makes it feel like summer is right around the corner!”
– Jim McGowan

 

 

“We love Saddleback Butte State Park for its convenient location, beautiful desert scenery including gorgeous spring yellow bloom, the Joshua Trees and unbelievable sun rises and sunsets from the top of the Butte, wildlife (including coyotes, lizards, rabbits, snakes), minimal crowds, nice camping area, and love the nearby Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park!”
– Michael Stadnick

 

 

“The wildflower blooms in Los Angeles State Historic State Park bring beautiful scenes for park visitors to enjoy! Spring just feels like the parks are alive as birds, insects and other wildlife are out in the park enjoying the blooms alongside you.”
– Melissa Potts

 

Have you checked out the superbloom this year? Share your photos with us at @calparks on Twitter and Instagram!