Our Initiatives
Lifers Leaving a Legacy transforms community challenges into opportunities through programs and initiatives designed to protect communities, advance community science, create opportunity, and prepare future generations.
Every initiative is connected to our mission of improving the human condition and building the Oakland future generations deserve.
Initiatives by Pillar
Protecting Communities
Community Protection Campaign
Supporting healthier neighborhoods through education, outreach, environmental stewardship, and community-driven solutions.
Legacy House
Providing stability, support, and opportunity for Returning Family Members as they transition back into the community.
Community Cleanup & Beautification
Improving neighborhood conditions while promoting environmental stewardship and community pride.
Advancing Community Science
Community Science Workshop Series
Bringing residents, youth, and partners together to learn about environmental conditions, public health, and community solutions.
Community Science Network
An ongoing network of residents and partners working together to better understand local environmental conditions and create community-led solutions.
LIFERS Tool
The Local Information for Environmental Reporting System helps residents identify, document, and report environmental concerns.
Air Monitoring & Research
Community-led monitoring and research initiatives that help residents understand local environmental conditions and cumulative impacts.
Creating Opportunity
Workforce Development Programs
Connecting residents to certifications, training, and career pathways in environmental services, transportation, construction, and emerging industries.
From Harm to Opportunity Workforce Model
Transforming illegal dumping and neighborhood blight into opportunities for employment, skill development, and community restoration.
Returning Family Member Pathways
Supporting successful reentry through workforce readiness, life skills, mentorship, and community support.
Preparing Future Generations
Youth Empowerment Academy (YEA)
Equipping youth with leadership skills, workforce readiness, financial literacy, personal development, and future-focused career exploration.
Youth Community Scientists
Providing hands-on learning opportunities that introduce youth to environmental research, data collection, and community leadership.
Youth Advisory Council (YAC)
Creating opportunities for young people to help shape initiatives, provide feedback, and develop leadership skills.
Community Air Monitoring, Air Pollution Awareness & Community Cleanups
Understanding What We Breathe. Improving Where We Live.
Lifers partnered with the California Air Resources Board (CARB), residents, technical experts, and environmental organizations to better understand neighborhood air quality while educating the community about pollution sources and environmental health.
The initiative included:
Installation of community air monitoring equipment
Air pollution awareness and education
Community science engagement
Environmental outreach
Community cleanup activities
Public health awareness
Residents learned how to identify common sources of pollution, understand potential health impacts, and participate in efforts to improve neighborhood conditions.
By combining data, education, and direct action, the initiative helps communities better understand both visible and invisible environmental challenges.
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Port of Oakland Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program
Reducing Emissions Where Communities Live and Work
The movement of goods through Oakland's freight corridors is essential to the regional economy, but it can also impact air quality in nearby neighborhoods.
Through this initiative, Lifers helps educate residents about freight-related emissions, cleaner transportation technologies, and the connection between transportation systems and community health.