Jack London Park Partners, the nonprofit organization that funds and operates Glen Ellen’s Jack London State Historic Park, was recently awarded a $30,000 grant to support the “Rutas Y Aventuras” program, which broadens access to the park to the Sonoma Valley’s Latino population.
“While Jack London Park Partners has always welcomed all visitors, we recognize that ‘open to all’ is not the same as ‘meaningfully accessible to all,’ ” said Jack London Park Partners Executive Director Matt Leffert.
“Our goal is to make Jack London State Historic Park a beloved, familiar, and frequently used resource for Sonoma Valley’s Latinx residents,” he added.
The grant is part of a Route to Parks program from Parks California and California State Parks. The initiative helps local organizations overcome transportation challenges so historically marginalized communities can visit and enjoy California State Parks.
Launched in 2024 with ongoing support from Vadasz Family Foundation, the “Rutas Y Aventuras” program offers a free Spanish-language hike or activity each month, including free park entry.
With support from the Route to Parks grant, the organization will expand the program to include transportation assistance, supplies and three community days highlighting seasonal and watershed changes — all presented in Spanish.
Sonoma Valley’s Hispanic community, which represents nearly 30% of the population, has historically had limited access to the Park.
