CoolOC

Climate change is already impacting Orange County communities, yet many lack the resources and knowledge to respond effectively. Cool OC is dedicated to bridging this gap by equipping residents with practical solutions to reduce their carbon footprint, strengthen climate resilience, and create a healthier, more sustainable future. Through education, advocacy, and community-driven initiatives, we empower individuals to take meaningful action and build thriving, equitable communities in harmony with the environment.

Since 2022, Cool OC has been committed to galvanizing Orange County toward carbon neutrality. This mission was sparked by the UN Environmental Programme’s call to cultivate “cool cities” that mitigate the impacts of climate change. In partnership with the City of Irvine, the organization launched the Cool Irvine pilot program to engage Irvine residents in sustainability, disaster preparedness, and community building. Following the program’s success, Cool OC has expanded this initiative to additional cities across Orange County. In recognition of its impact, Cool OC received the 2023 Beacon Leadership & Innovation Award from the Institute for Local Government and was featured at the County of Orange Climate Resiliency Investigative Hearing.

In 2025, Cool OC’s impact was driven by accessible climate education, hands-on workshops, community engagement, and vital resources that helped residents take steps toward sustainability. Across the region, we inspired action, sparked dialogue, and strengthened local resilience.

Key Achievements:
- 158 students mentored through eco-challenges and youth programs
- 1,360 participants attended our community workshops, which covered topics such as sustainable living, plant-based diets, energy savings, and climate preparedness.
- 3,323 meaningful climate conversations that equipped individuals with knowledge and tools to act on the climate crisis.

Our programs have significantly expanded, with notable growth in Irvine and an extension into new cities across Orange County. We successfully hosted impactful climate education events, hands-on sustainability initiatives, and local collaborations in cities such as Irvine, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Costa Mesa, and Huntington Beach. These efforts have increased community engagement and fostered a greater understanding of sustainability practices, inspiring collective action and strengthening community ties across the region.

In Irvine alone, participating households collectively reduced 244 tons of CO₂ emissions, saved over 297,000 gallons of water, completed 743 sustainable actions, and achieved $106,464 in collective energy savings!

In 2026, Cool OC plans to continue its growth to serve all of Orange County, starting with a focused expansion into Fullerton and Buena Park.

In order to expand this program in Irvine and scale it to other cities, the following is needed:
Program Manager: $70,000
Starting funding for our disadvantaged communities program: $50,000
Marketing and Outreach (graphic design, website, communications): $25,000

Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Buena Park and Costa Mesa. Eventually, hopefully all of Orange County!