Community Soil Foundation secures STEM grant to support science education in Sonoma County

The American Water Charitable Foundation has awarded a STEM Education grant to Community Soil Foundation, benefiting students in underserved communities in Sonoma County, California, served by California American Water. 

The grant, part of the Foundation’s Keep Communities Flowing Grant Programme, will support STEM-focused education and help provide hands-on science experiences for students with limited access to such resources.

The grant aligns with the Foundation’s commitment to supporting initiatives in water, people, and communities. Kevin Tilden, President of California American Water, highlighted the importance of the grant in furthering STEM education locally: 

“California American Water is committed to supporting STEM education initiatives that create a pipeline of future leaders in the communities we serve. This grant empowers Community Soil Foundation to continue their vital work of providing hands-on science education and fresh, nutritious food to underserved communities in Sonoma County.”

The Community Soil Foundation, financially backed by the Extended Child Care Coalition, offers science-based and land-focused educational programmes in Sonoma County. A central project of the Foundation is the Larkfield Community Garden, where students from Mark West Elementary engage in science lessons aligned with Next Generation Science Standards. 

Lessons cover topics such as decomposition, pollination, and germination, allowing students to explore science through hands-on learning while also creating access to fresh produce for the community.

The Foundation expects to expand its reach to serve around 400 students each week with the new funding.

"The American Water Charitable Foundation’s generous grant is a significant boost for our organisation,” said Paolo Tantarelli, Community Farm Co-Founder and Advisor at Community Soil Foundation.

“It will enable us to expand our educational programming, reaching four hundred students per week, and inspiring a passion for science and the environment. We are deeply appreciative of American Water Charitable Foundation and California American Water’s support.”

Carrie Williams, President of the American Water Charitable Foundation, emphasised the value of partnerships with local organisations: 

“The American Water Charitable Foundation is delighted to partner with eligible nonprofit organisations across California, like Community Soil Foundation that serves Sonoma County. We are proud to support initiatives that provide access to high-quality learning students need to be successful.”