The Tenacious Group Recognized as 2025 Climate Smart Equity Champion
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SAN JOSE, Calif. - Californer -- The Tenacious Group (TTG) has been recognized as a 2025 Climate Smart Equity Champion by Climate Smart San José for its leadership in climate education and community empowerment. Through its Air Quality Initiative, Thrive2, TTG is bridging the climate literacy gap by equipping students with the knowledge and tools to address air pollution and advocate for climate justice.

In partnership with the Santa Clara County Youth Climate Initiative, TTG is integrating climate education into 10 East San José high schools, fostering a new generation of environmental leaders. Programs like AIR CARE, immersive field trips, and hands-on learning experiences help strengthen climate resilience in frontline communities, ensuring long-term environmental and social impact.

Additionally, five students from Yerba Buena High School, participating in TTG's Raising Expectations, Standards, and Honor 180 (RESH 180) program, have also been named Climate Smart Equity Champions. As part of the Thrive2 Air Quality Initiative, they designed and built mobile plant carts for schools, featuring air-purifying snake plants to help reduce carbon dioxide levels and improve air quality. Their leadership has not only enhanced climate literacy but also boosted their academic performance—demonstrating the power of environmental engagement. Their efforts are inspiring future students to take action, creating a lasting impact on climate justice and community resilience.

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Since 2000, TTG has empowered marginalized youth of color in underserved communities across San José and Santa Clara County. By introducing students and schools to climate literacy, TTG provides meaningful entry points for climate action. Reflecting on this journey, Adam Ybarra, Former NFL Oakland Raiders Chaplain and Executive Director of The Tenacious Group, shares, "Engaging in the climate space has transformed my approach, allowing me to see people through an environmental lens. Being immersed in climate science, tools, and methodologies has enhanced my prevention and intervention strategies, empowering people to live with purpose—and, just as importantly, inspiring others to create positive climate and environmental changes in their schools, neighborhoods, and communities."

Looking ahead, TTG is committed to building an equitable regional framework for impactful climate education. Its initiatives include developing interactive classroom curricula and climate-focused videos on air quality and extreme heat, emphasizing ways to combat air pollution and promote cleaner air in homes, schools, and communities. TTG also aims to establish a resilience network by launching certified train-the-trainer programs designed to reach under-resourced communities. These trainings will equip nonprofits, government agencies, and academic institutions with tools and methodologies to implement climate solutions in their communities. Ybarra emphasizes, "We hope to lay the groundwork for awareness and understanding of climate issues, ensuring this subject becomes a priority in East San José schools. Many of our students live in low-income, historically under-invested neighborhoods, where climate challenges are more severe. Despite these barriers, students are rising to the occasion—empowering themselves to adapt and thrive in a changing environmental landscape."

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In honor of César Chávez, we share his powerful words: "We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community." This sentiment embodies TTG's mission—empowering youth and communities through climate literacy and environmental action.

Visit our website www.thetenaciousgroup.com to explore data from Thrive2 participants.

Click the link to view the award notice from the City of San Jose Climate Smart Equity Champion

If you are interested in having Dr. Adam Ybarra speak at your upcoming event or conference, we welcome your inquiries. Adam is passionate on equipping and helping people thrive in their purpose. With a passion for inspiring positive change, Adam brings a unique perspective that resonates with diverse audiences. For more information please visit www.thetenaciousgroup.com or feel free to email us at  info@thetenaciousgroup.com to discuss potential speaking engagements.