National Immunization Awareness Month

August is National Immunization Awareness Month. With back-to-school season quickly approaching, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) encourages parents and caretakers to schedule their children and teens to get recommended and required vaccines before school starts. Families can visit the CDPH Immunization Branch and Shots for School webpages for information on required vaccinations in California. Children without insurance qualify for the Vaccines for Children Program, which provides no-cost vaccines for eligible children.

Wildfire Safety 

As wildfire season continues, CDPH has released guidelines to minimize health risks and stay safe. When a wildfire is threatening your area, CDPH recommends that you monitor local area radio or television stations for the latest wildfire information, be prepared to evacuate on a moment’s notice, and make sure you have an emergency kit, complete with medications, copies of prescriptions, and medical supplies. If you are experiencing wildfire smoke, CDPH recommends staying indoors as much as possible, turning off anything that allows outdoor air to enter, setting your air conditioning to reuse indoor air, and using a HEPA filter device if possible. 

Promise Neighborhoods Grants 

The United States Department of Education recently announced that they are accepting applications for their Promise Neighborhoods Program Grants. The purpose of the Promise Neighborhoods Program Grants is to improve the academic and developmental outcomes of children and youth living in the most distressed communities of the United States. Applications are being accepted until September 10, 2024. View the application instructions for more information. 

P. Buckley Moss Foundation Arts Grant

The P. Buckley Moss Foundation for Children's Education is accepting applications for their P. Buckley Moss Foundation Arts Grant. Grants of up to $1,000 will be awarded. Funding must be used to support projects within schools that integrate the arts into educational programs. The purpose of this grant is to aid and support teachers who wish to establish or maintain an effective learning tool using the visual arts within the school day. Applications will be accepted until September 30.  

The Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair

Students in grades 6-12 from all schools are invited to participate in the 2025 Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair (GSDSEF) next March at Balboa Park in either the Junior (grades 6-8) or Senior (grades 9-12) divisions. Every student who competes wins an award, more than $30,000 is given out at the awards ceremony, and top winners have the opportunity to move on to the state and international levels. Visit the GSDSEF website to view participation information, the schedule, and resources for teachers and students. 

Health & Healing Summerfest

On Saturday, August 24, from 9 AM - 1 PM, Project New Village will be hosting their Health & Healing Summerfest at the Educational Cultural Complex at 4343 Ocean View Blvd in San Diego. This event is free to attend and connects community members to traditional and sustainable pathways for wellness. The event will feature local vendors, agrarian activities, health information and screening, mindful movement activities, guest speakers, healthy food and refreshments, music, and a free swag bag full of goodies and community resources for all attendees! Registration is open now. 

The Triple V Fellowship Program

Triple V Fellowship provides students ages 14 - 16 access to a community dedicated to improving college and career readiness. All of the fellowship's core projects and programs revolve around scholarships, mentorships, and internships across various fields. Additionally, members of the fellowship are encouraged to attend the in-person events to expand their network. Register to Join Triple V and view the flyer to learn more.