Lifers presents the 2026 Community Protection Summit, a full-day convening focused on Intro to Community Science—a practical, community-led approach to protecting public health, environmental quality, and quality of life in Oakland.

Across Oakland, environmental challenges show up in everyday ways, including air quality concerns, illegal dumping, infrastructure gaps, toxic exposure, and preventable health risks. This Summit brings together residents, community advocates, public agencies, and local leaders to explore these challenges and highlight collaborative, solution-oriented approaches that move from awareness to action.

At Lifers, we believe community protection is grounded in knowledge and participation. This Summit centers community experience, data-informed insight, and practical tools—demonstrating how community science, partnership, and local engagement can strengthen accountability, improve conditions, and support healthier, more resilient neighborhoods.

Defining Environmentalism as Community Protection
A grounded conversation on how environmental issues directly affect quality of life, health outcomes, and economic stability in Oakland neighborhoods.

Community Challenges

• Air pollution & poor air quality

• Illegal dumping & environmental neglect

• Health risks tied to toxic exposure

• Infrastructure and enforcement gaps

• Cumulative impacts on Communities of Concern

Community-Driven Solutions

• Air monitoring & community science

• Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle (CHDV) Program engagement

• Public agency accountability & partnerships

• Workforce pathways & environmental training

• Resident-led reporting, prevention, and advocacy

• Community-led clean-ups

• Lunch Served – Catered meal provided for all attendees

• Giveaways & Resources

• $30 Visa Gift Card for all registered participants

• HAZMAT Training (Valued at $250)

• Interactive workshops and facilitated discussions

• Direct engagement with agencies and subject-matter experts