The Junior Center of Art and Science steps into an exciting new role as host and convener for the Lake Merritt Action Coalition.

Lake Merritt is what it is because people show up for it. For years, volunteers, community groups, city staff, and residents have worked to care for and protect this shared space.

But too often, these efforts happen in isolation. The Lake Merritt Action Coalition brings people together to work in alignment—so we can share resources, strengthen advocacy, and make a greater collective impact.

Last year, the Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation (OPRF) convened a series of “Critical Conversations,” bringing together some of the most active organizations working at Lake Merritt.

What emerged was clear: while many groups are deeply committed to the lake, there is no single body to bring them together—to create a shared table, a shared voice, and a way to leverage our collective impact.Now housed within the Junior Center for Art and Science, the Lake Merritt Action Coalition (LMAC) exists to bring organizations together to take collective action and advocate for a healthier, more accessible lake for all.

Our Immediate Priority

We are raising funds to support a dedicated coordinator, a critical role that will:

Align organizations and keep priority efforts moving forward
Coordinate advocacy with the City of Oakland
Lead fundraising to sustain this work
Ensure accountability through clear plans and timelines

This role is essential to turning shared commitment into real, measurable progress.

$10,000 Matching Gift

We’re excited to share that a generous donor has committed a $10,000 matching gift.

That means every dollar you give will be doubled.

Your support will help us build the coordination and momentum needed to improve conditions at Lake Merritt. All donations are tax-deductible: Tax ID #94-1236838.

👉 Please donate today—any amount makes a difference.

The Challenge

While hundreds of volunteers work on the lake, their efforts have historically been siloed, limiting advocacy and resources.

The Solution

While prioritizing coalition-building, youth environmental education and sciences, public awareness campaigns, and coordinated advocacy, the Junior Center of Art and Science (JCAS) will serve as a trusted convening partner to strengthen stewardship, improve accessibility and infrastructure, and bring a creative lens to conservation.

The Four Pillars

Creating a shared platform for all stewardship groups.

Engaging the next generation through environmental science.

Launching creative campaigns to celebrate the lake.

Leveraging collective power to improve infrastructure.

Donate to: Lake Merritt Action Coalition

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Please mail check to:
Junior Center for Art and Science
558 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610

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