In 2016, the San Diego Promise Zone was designated as one of 22 federally recognized Promise Zones in the United States and one of only four in California. (Photo courtesy of the city of San Diego)

The city of San Diego and California Coast Credit Union are teaming up again to support community organizations working to improve the quality of life in some of the city’s most underserved neighborhoods.

Through their Promise Zone Community Partner Growth Fund, the City and Cal Coast are awarding a total of $109,000 in grants to 11 nonprofits, each receiving between $9,000 and $10,000.

The goal: support efforts that expand access to education, job training, healthy living, and community outreach in the federally designated Promise Zone, a 6.4-square-mile area stretching from East Village and Barrio Logan to Southeastern San Diego and Encanto.

Since the area was designated a Promise Zone in 2016, the City and more than 80 partner organizations have worked together to tackle long-standing issues—everything from housing affordability and job creation to education and health. These grants are part of that continuing effort.

“Through targeted efforts and collaboration, the City and its partners have worked hard to create better lives for San Diegans living in the Promise Zone,” said Christina Bibler, the city’s economic development director. “We’re proud to choose these partners who share our commitment to the Promise Zone’s vision—creating a clear pathway from promise to prosperity.”

This year’s grant recipients include:

  • Accessity – Microlending program ($10,000)
  • Black Tech Link – GIS training program ($10,000)
  • Classics 4 Kids – Access to music education ($10,000)
  • Computers 2 Kids – TECH UP program ($10,000)
  • In Good Company – Carbon literacy outreach ($10,000)
  • Mission Edge – Community outreach and engagement ($10,000)
  • Monarch School Project – Career readiness for unhoused youth ($10,000)
  • Travelers Aid Society of San Diego – Senior support services ($10,000)
  • Urban Collaborative Project – Transportation justice and green corridor event ($10,000)
  • United Way of San Diego County – STEAM-to-career initiative ($10,000)
  • Workshops for Warriors – Advanced manufacturing training for youth ($9,000)

The grants will help these groups continue offering support in areas like education, workforce development, and organizational growth—especially for residents facing barriers to college, careers, and stable housing.

“California Coast Credit Union is honored to continue our partnership with the City of San Diego in supporting the Promise Zone Community Partner Growth Fund,” said Cal Coast President and CEO Todd Lane. “These grants represent a strategic investment in organizations that are driving meaningful change—expanding access to education, economic opportunity, and community well-being.”

Local nonprofit leaders say the funds will go a long way.

“Thanks to this award, we can bring the Carbon Literacy certification directly to our neighbors in the Promise Zone,” said Adrienne Fusek, founder of In Good Company. “The award will directly benefit residents through outreach and full scholarships. Through the globally-recognized Carbon Literacy training, Promise Zone residents will build knowledge in climate change and leverage that knowledge to take meaningful action for a healthier, more sustainable San Diego.”

Workshops for Warriors CEO Hernán Luis y Prado said, “This grant increases our ability to train, certify, and place veterans and hardworking San Diegans into dignified lifelong careers while rebuilding America’s manufacturing force. WFW has almost two decades of investment, training, housing our neighbors, and job creation in Barrio Logan.”

He also pointed to the long-term impact. “Additional funding would allow us to train up to 7,500 San Diegans a year into advanced manufacturing careers that strengthen our nation and average $63,000 per year,” he said.

Afira DeVries, president and CEO of the Monarch School Project, called the grant more than just funding. “It’s a powerful partnership,” she said. “Together, we’re equipping unhoused K-12 students with the life skills and support they need to build pathways to college and career. Alongside other grassroots organizations in the San Diego Promise Zone, we’re working to ensure every youth has the opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances.”

This marks the third round of Promise Zone grants awarded by the city and Cal Coast. More rounds are expected in the future.