Artists + Practitioners + Organizations

Kumeyaay Community College (KCC) aims to promote a quality education focusing on Kumeyaay studies for the community interested in a unique and supportive educational experience. KCC lives its mission by promoting Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination; preserving Indigenous values of family, respect, healing, and spiritual awareness; developing a supportive learning environment for the community; promoting cultural education by embracing cognitive development and traditional teaching methods; and designing and developing of curriculum that prepares students professionally and socially to succeed in a diverse global society.

Via International promotes sustainable development by engaging and supporting leaders in emerging communities. The organization is driven by and centered on including community voices and strengthening (“formation”) community leadership. It is committed to meeting leaders where they are and working together to identify solutions that elevate communities. Via International works through the lens of asset-based community development, which builds off already present strengths and assets. It encourages a participatory process where people identify their needs and act to improve their quality of life, families, and communities.

The Imperial County Historical Society disseminates the history of Imperial County and close geographic areas where they were impactful. The organization’s mission is to maintain current collections and continue to collect relevant future artifacts held in the extensive archives of the Pioneers' Museum for the public benefit and to facilitate educational and cultural development. To carry out this mission, the organization works to procure, restore, preserve, interpret, and protect documentary materials and artifacts to bring history to life for current and future generations.