Gratitude & Giving Back
Because of this community, Blackthorne continues to thrive. Giving back isn’t just something we do — it’s who we are. From charitable partnerships to wellness initiatives and special events, we’re proud to stand alongside the people who have supported us throughout the years.
The Food Bank for Monterey County is the largest and most comprehensive provider of emergency supplemental food in the region, addressing the critical issue of food insecurity affecting over 40% of local residents. Serving as the central distribution hub, it supplies high-quality food, fresh produce, and vital educational and nutritional resources to over 160 nonprofit partners. By feeding 1 in 4 residents and 1 in 3 children, the Food Bank is making a transformative impact on hunger and community health across Monterey County.
Camp McCandless, the 4-H Summer Camp program, will take place in June in the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains. This 6-day, 5-night experience is designed for 4-H enrolled youth ages 9-18, offering a range of traditional camp activities that encourage teamwork, leadership, and personal growth. Through outdoor adventures and skill-building opportunities, campers will have the chance to connect with peers and develop valuable life skills in a fun and supportive environment. The 4-H youth who attend represent a variety of communities from Aromas to Lockwood.
Tatum’s Garden is a one-of-a-kind, accessible playground in Salinas, designed to allow children of all abilities to play side-by-side, promoting empathy and inclusivity. As the first accessible park in the tri-county area, it was inspired by Tatum Bakker and is privately funded and managed by the Tatum’s Garden Foundation. The park is open to the community, with support from volunteers and donations.
Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast (GSCCC) serves over 5,700 girls and 4,500 adult volunteers across six counties from Santa Cruz to Ventura. With program centers in Castroville, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Oxnard, and Thousand Oaks, GSCCC provides welcoming spaces for girls and volunteers to connect and grow. Through troops, day camps, council events, and individual projects, girls explore leadership, outdoor adventure, and STEAM in fun and meaningful ways—building confidence and skills that last a lifetime. Learn more about us: Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast.
What is Salinas PAL?
Salinas PAL is a nonprofit organization that builds trust between youth and law enforcement through mentorship, education, and fun activities. Their mission is to empower young people with the skills, confidence, and support they need to succeed while fostering positive connections with police and the community.
Programs & Activities
Salinas PAL offers a variety of programs designed to keep kids engaged and on a positive path. These include sports like basketball, soccer, and boxing, which teach teamwork and discipline. They also provide academic support through tutoring and career workshops, as well as leadership development opportunities. Community events, summer camps, and outreach initiatives further strengthen relationships between youth, families, and law enforcement.
Why It Matters
By providing safe spaces and constructive alternatives, Salinas PAL helps prevent youth from risky behaviors while encouraging personal growth. Their programs promote trust in law enforcement, reduce crime, and give kids the tools to build brighter futures.
Partnerships & Support
Working closely with the Salinas Police Department, local schools, and volunteers, Salinas PAL delivers vital resources to underserved youth. The organization relies on community donations, grants, and volunteers to keep its programs running.
About
The County of Monterey and City of Salinas formally merged Animal Services in 2023 through a Joint Powers Agreement, creating Hitchcock Road Animal Services Agency. Many years of discussions, shared staffing and agreements and even a worldwide pandemic led up to the formation of this new agency.
While the County of Monterey serves as the Lead Agency of HRAS, the agency governed by a Board of Directors that has 2 representatives of each the County of Monterey and the City of Salinas.
Services
Core Services at HRAS include: Pet Licensing, Field Services, & Shelter Services. Other services include our spay/neuter clinic, volunteer and foster programs and a community cat program.
Shelter
Animal Services houses approximately 4,000 animals annually, mostly dogs and cats, that have been brought in from the unincorporated areas of Monterey County and City of Salinas as well as from contract cities that include Marina, Carmel, Greenfield, Del Rey Oaks, and CSUMB. programs running.
About
The Professional Women’s Network (PWN) is a national organization with a proud local presence on the Monterey Peninsula since 1983. Members across the country enjoy both online and in-person networking opportunities throughout Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. Recognized as the legacy organization for professional women—and a few outstanding businessmen—in Monterey County, PWN brings together a diverse membership of entrepreneurs, professionals, and employees.
Since its founding, the Professional Women’s Network has consistently uplifted and supported women and a select number of men in both personal fulfillment and business success. Over the decades, the organization has awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships to assist women in business and the nonprofit organizations they champion.
Each year, PWN honors one exceptional woman whose life and work have made a meaningful impact on the network and the broader community. The prestigious Woman of the Year Award is presented at the Annual Holiday Gala, which also serves as the organization’s signature fundraising event.
All In Monterey County is a grassroots, volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to supporting residents across all of Monterey County and beyond. Formed in 2020 as a community response to the COVID-19 pandemic, All In now assists over 1,000 residents each week through its Giving Drive, Giving Markets, and monthly Kindness Closet. Based in Marina, the organization also partners with the Red Cross and the County of Monterey Office of Emergency Management to provide critical, on-the-ground support during natural disasters.
To learn more or get involved, visit https://allinmonterey.org/
Salinas High School Athletics represents more than competitive sports—it’s a cornerstone of community pride, teamwork, and student growth in the heart of Salinas. With a long tradition of excellence, Salinas High offers a wide range of athletic programs that help student-athletes build confidence, discipline, leadership, and lifelong healthy habits.
From Friday night lights on the football field to the dedication of student-athletes across track, basketball, soccer, softball, baseball, volleyball, swimming, and more, Salinas High Athletics plays a vital role in shaping well-rounded young adults. The program is supported by passionate coaches, families, alumni, and the local community, all working together to help students succeed both on and off the field.
