Real change doesn't happen overnight, but grassroots environmental activists are proving that ordinary people can spark extraordinary global transformations. From halting destructive oil and gas exploration along South Africa's Wild Coast to securing groundbreaking regulations limiting trucking and rail emissions in California, the 2024 <a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goldman Environmental Prize</a> winners have achieved remarkable victories through their unwavering determination and community-driven efforts.

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Real change doesn't happen overnight, but grassroots environmental activists are proving that ordinary people can spark extraordinary global transformations. From halting destructive oil and gas exploration along South Africa's Wild Coast to securing groundbreaking regulations limiting trucking and rail emissions in California, the 2024 <a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goldman Environmental Prize</a> winners have achieved remarkable victories through their unwavering determination and community-driven efforts.

Environmental heroes from around the globe gathered in San Francisco on April 29 for the 35th annual Goldman Environmental Prize ceremony at the War Memorial Opera House. The prestigious award honors grassroots environmental activists making extraordinary impacts in their communities. This year's ceremony was hosted by <a href="https://outdoorafro.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Outdoor Afro</a> founder Rue Mapp and featured a musical performance by Jazz Mafia.

Environmental heroes from around the globe gathered in San Francisco on April 29 for the 35th annual Goldman Environmental Prize ceremony at the War Memorial Opera House. The prestigious award honors grassroots environmental activists making extraordinary impacts in their communities. This year's ceremony was hosted by <a href="https://outdoorafro.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Outdoor Afro</a> founder Rue Mapp and featured a musical performance by Jazz Mafia.

The Prize was founded in 1989 in San Francisco by philanthropists and civic leaders Rhoda and Richard Goldman. Over 35 years, the Prize has had an immeasurable impact on the planet. To date, it has honored 226 winners—including 102 women—from 95 nations.

The Prize was founded in 1989 in San Francisco by philanthropists and civic leaders Rhoda and Richard Goldman. Over 35 years, the Prize has had an immeasurable impact on the planet. To date, it has honored 226 winners—including 102 women—from 95 nations.

Rirchard and Rhoda Goldman of the Goldman Environmental Prize

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/richardandrhodagoldman.png?w=2500" alt="Rirchard and Rhoda Goldman of the Goldman Environmental Prize" class="wp-image-271991"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Richard and Rhoda Goldman of the Goldman Environmental Prize</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/richardandrhodagoldman.png?w=2500" alt="Rirchard and Rhoda Goldman of the Goldman Environmental Prize" class="wp-image-271991"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Richard and Rhoda Goldman of the Goldman Environmental Prize</figcaption></figure>

"My parents loved the outdoors and nature," said John Goldman, president of the Goldman Environmental Foundation and son of Richard and Rhoda Goldman. "The impetus for this Prize was their love of the natural world and the people working to protect it through environmental action."

"My parents loved the outdoors and nature," said John Goldman, president of the Goldman Environmental Foundation and son of Richard and Rhoda Goldman. "The impetus for this Prize was their love of the natural world and the people working to protect it through environmental action."

While the ceremony had a distinctly San Francisco flair, the prize recipients represented a true global movement. The seven 2024 Goldman Prize winners hailed from six different continental regions, showcasing the widespread impact of grassroots environmentalism.

While the ceremony had a distinctly San Francisco flair, the prize recipients represented a true global movement. The seven 2024 Goldman Prize winners hailed from six different continental regions, showcasing the widespread impact of grassroots environmentalism.

The process of selecting the Prizewinners each year is extensive. Goldman explained that after a round of nominations from environmental organizations worldwide, the list is pared down to around 30 finalists through staff vetting. A jury of seven members, including representatives from the Goldman family, then thoroughly reviews each finalist and selects the winners.

The process of selecting the Prizewinners each year is extensive. Goldman explained that after a round of nominations from environmental organizations worldwide, the list is pared down to around 30 finalists through staff vetting. A jury of seven members, including representatives from the Goldman family, then thoroughly reviews each finalist and selects the winners.

"We want them to continue the work they do and collaborate with others globally working on similar issues," Goldman said. Prizewinners become part of an extended family, with opportunities for networking, grants for specific projects and a platform to raise awareness.

"We want them to continue the work they do and collaborate with others globally working on similar issues," Goldman said. Prizewinners become part of an extended family, with opportunities for networking, grants for specific projects and a platform to raise awareness.

Goldman emphasized that although the San Francisco Bay Area is ahead of many parts of the world in terms of environmental consciousness, there are still lessons to be learned from Indigenous practices of caring for the land. "We can do better by paying attention to our recycling, the products we use, and learning from our activists around the world to bring back practices that balance human life with natural life."

Goldman emphasized that although the San Francisco Bay Area is ahead of many parts of the world in terms of environmental consciousness, there are still lessons to be learned from Indigenous practices of caring for the land. "We can do better by paying attention to our recycling, the products we use, and learning from our activists around the world to bring back practices that balance human life with natural life."

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Many former winners have gone on to become government officials, heads of state, nongovernmental organization leaders and even Nobel laureates. Their victories, though local, have global impact—inspiring a growing movement of ordinary people taking extraordinary actions to protect our planet.

Many former winners have gone on to become government officials, heads of state, nongovernmental organization leaders and even Nobel laureates. Their victories, though local, have global impact—inspiring a growing movement of ordinary people taking extraordinary actions to protect our planet.

"It is consistently amazing to me that, even with our eyes wide open, understanding the threats to our planet as we do, we still march forward and postpone systemic change to our climate policies and actions," Goldman said. "So what positive message can we take from another year of bad news? For me, it is humanity's endless reserves of bravery, ingenuity, grit and determination to do good. There is no shortage of those who are doing the hard work selflessly."

"It is consistently amazing to me that, even with our eyes wide open, understanding the threats to our planet as we do, we still march forward and postpone systemic change to our climate policies and actions," Goldman said. "So what positive message can we take from another year of bad news? For me, it is humanity's endless reserves of bravery, ingenuity, grit and determination to do good. There is no shortage of those who are doing the hard work selflessly."

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-africa">Africa</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-africa">Africa</h2>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/sinegugu-zukulu-nonhle-mbuthuma/">Nonhle Mbuthuma and Sinegugu Zukulu, South Africa</a>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/sinegugu-zukulu-nonhle-mbuthuma/">Nonhle Mbuthuma and Sinegugu Zukulu, South Africa</a>

Nonhle Mbuthuma and Sinegugu Zukulu of South Africa

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/nonhle-mbuthuma-forslund_sinegugu-zukulu_image003.jpg?w=2500" alt="Nonhle Mbuthuma and Sinegugu Zukulu of South Africa" class="wp-image-271900"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nonhle Mbuthuma and Sinegugu Zukulu</figcaption></figure>

In September 2022, Indigenous activists Nonhle Mbuthuma and Sinegugu Zukulu stopped destructive seismic testing for oil and gas off South Africa's Eastern Cape, in an area known as the Wild Coast. Organizing their community, Mbuthuma and Zukulu secured their victory by asserting the rights of the local community to protect its marine environment. By halting oil and gas exploration in a particularly biodiverse area, they protected migratory whales, dolphins and other wildlife from the harmful effects of seismic testing.

In September 2022, Indigenous activists Nonhle Mbuthuma and Sinegugu Zukulu stopped destructive seismic testing for oil and gas off South Africa's Eastern Cape, in an area known as the Wild Coast. Organizing their community, Mbuthuma and Zukulu secured their victory by asserting the rights of the local community to protect its marine environment. By halting oil and gas exploration in a particularly biodiverse area, they protected migratory whales, dolphins and other wildlife from the harmful effects of seismic testing.

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/alok-shukla/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alok Shukla, India</a>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/alok-shukla/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alok Shukla, India</a>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/alok-shukla_pix_6040-1-edited.jpg" alt="Alok Shukla of India" class="wp-image-271985" style="width:671px;height:auto"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Alok Shukla</figcaption></figure>

Alok Shukla led a successful community resistance campaign that saved 445,000 acres of biodiversity-rich forests from 21 planned coal mines in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh. In July 2022, the government canceled the 21 proposed coal mines in Hasdeo Aranya, whose pristine forests—popularly known as the lungs of Chhattisgarh—are one of the largest intact forest areas in India.

Alok Shukla led a successful community resistance campaign that saved 445,000 acres of biodiversity-rich forests from 21 planned coal mines in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh. In July 2022, the government canceled the 21 proposed coal mines in Hasdeo Aranya, whose pristine forests—popularly known as the lungs of Chhattisgarh—are one of the largest intact forest areas in India.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-europe">Europe</h2>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/teresa-vicente/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Teresa Vicente, Spain</a>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/teresa-vicente/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Teresa Vicente, Spain</a>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/teresa-vincente_gep_mar-menor-20.jpg?w=2500" alt="Teresa Vicente of Spain" class="wp-image-271899"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Teresa Vicente</figcaption></figure>

Teresa Vicente led a historic, grassroots campaign to save the Mar Menor ecosystem—Europe's largest saltwater lagoon—from collapse, resulting in the passage of a new law in September 2022 granting the lagoon unique legal rights. Once pristine, the waters of the Mar Menor, considered the most important saltwater coastal lagoon in the western Mediterranean, had become polluted due to mining, rampant development of urban and tourist infrastructure and, in recent years, intensive agriculture and livestock farming.

Teresa Vicente led a historic, grassroots campaign to save the Mar Menor ecosystem—Europe's largest saltwater lagoon—from collapse, resulting in the passage of a new law in September 2022 granting the lagoon unique legal rights. Once pristine, the waters of the Mar Menor, considered the most important saltwater coastal lagoon in the western Mediterranean, had become polluted due to mining, rampant development of urban and tourist infrastructure and, in recent years, intensive agriculture and livestock farming.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-islands-and-island-nations">Islands and Island Nations</h2>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/murrawah-maroochy-johnson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Murrawah Maroochy Johnson, Australia</a>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/murrawah-maroochy-johnson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Murrawah Maroochy Johnson, Australia</a>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/murrawah-maroochy_dsc00276.jpg?w=2500" alt="Murrawah Maroochy of Australia" class="wp-image-271901"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Murrawah Maroochy</figcaption></figure>

Murrawah Maroochy Johnson blocked the development of the Waratah Coal mine, which would have accelerated climate change in Queensland, destroyed the nearly 20,000-acre Bimblebox Nature Refuge, added 1.58 billion tons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere over its lifetime and threatened Indigenous rights and culture. Johnson's case, which overcame a 2023 appeal, set a precedent that enables other First Nations people to challenge coal projects by linking climate change to human and Indigenous rights.

Murrawah Maroochy Johnson blocked the development of the Waratah Coal mine, which would have accelerated climate change in Queensland, destroyed the nearly 20,000-acre Bimblebox Nature Refuge, added 1.58 billion tons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere over its lifetime and threatened Indigenous rights and culture. Johnson's case, which overcame a 2023 appeal, set a precedent that enables other First Nations people to challenge coal projects by linking climate change to human and Indigenous rights.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-north-america">North America</h2>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/andrea-vidaurre/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrea Vidaurre, United States</a>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/andrea-vidaurre/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrea Vidaurre, United States</a>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/andrea-vidaurre_goldman_prize_600dpi_4.jpg?w=2500" alt="Andrea Vidaurre of the United States" class="wp-image-271898"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Andrea Vidaurre</figcaption></figure>

Andrea Vidaurre's grassroots leadership persuaded the California Air Resources Board to adopt, in the spring of 2023, two historic transportation regulations that significantly limit trucking and rail emissions. The new regulations—the In-Use Locomotive Regulation Rule and the California Advanced Clean Fleets Rule—include the nation's first emission rule for trains and a path to 100% zero emissions for freight truck sales by 2036. The groundbreaking regulations—a product of Andrea's policy work and community organizing—will substantially improve air quality for millions of Californians while accelerating the country's transition to zero-emission vehicles.

Andrea Vidaurre's grassroots leadership persuaded the California Air Resources Board to adopt, in the spring of 2023, two historic transportation regulations that significantly limit trucking and rail emissions. The new regulations—the In-Use Locomotive Regulation Rule and the California Advanced Clean Fleets Rule—include the nation's first emission rule for trains and a path to 100% zero emissions for freight truck sales by 2036. The groundbreaking regulations—a product of Andrea's policy work and community organizing—will substantially improve air quality for millions of Californians while accelerating the country's transition to zero-emission vehicles.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-south-and-central-america">South and Central America</h2>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/marcel-gomes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marcel Gomes, Brazil</a>

<a href="https://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/marcel-gomes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marcel Gomes, Brazil</a>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/marcelgomes.png?w=2500" alt="Marcel Gomes of Brazil" class="wp-image-271986"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Marcel Gomes</figcaption></figure>

Marcel Gomes coordinated a complex, international campaign that directly linked beef from JBS Foods, the world's largest meatpacking company, to illegal deforestation in Brazil's most threatened ecosystems. Armed with detailed evidence from his breakthrough investigative report, Gomes worked with partners to pressure global retailers to stop selling the illegally sourced meat, leading six major European supermarket chains in Belgium, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom to indefinitely halt the sale of JBS products in December 2021.

Marcel Gomes coordinated a complex, international campaign that directly linked beef from JBS Foods, the world's largest meatpacking company, to illegal deforestation in Brazil's most threatened ecosystems. Armed with detailed evidence from his breakthrough investigative report, Gomes worked with partners to pressure global retailers to stop selling the illegally sourced meat, leading six major European supermarket chains in Belgium, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom to indefinitely halt the sale of JBS products in December 2021.

As the Prize recognizes a new cohort of environmental champions, it continues the legacy envisioned by its founders. The Goldmans dreamed of drawing global attention to our planet's crisis—and proving that transformative change can be sparked by passionate grassroots activism. Thirty-five years on, that dream shines bright. The Prize's glittering alumni are beacons of hope in an era of environmental peril.

As the Prize recognizes a new cohort of environmental champions, it continues the legacy envisioned by its founders. The Goldmans dreamed of drawing global attention to our planet's crisis—and proving that transformative change can be sparked by passionate grassroots activism. Thirty-five years on, that dream shines bright. The Prize's glittering alumni are beacons of hope in an era of environmental peril.

John Goldman of the Goldman Environmental Prize

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/johngoldman2.png?w=2500" alt="John Goldman of the Goldman Environmental Prize" class="wp-image-271947"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">John Goldman of the Goldman Environmental Prize</figcaption></figure>

"These seven leaders refused to be complacent amidst adversity," Goldman said. "Alone, their achievements across the world are impressive. Together, they are a collective force—and a growing global movement—that is breathtaking and full of hope. From San Francisco to Sao Paulo to the Wild Coast of South Africa, we are a global community—and we are powerful."

"These seven leaders refused to be complacent amidst adversity," Goldman said. "Alone, their achievements across the world are impressive. Together, they are a collective force—and a growing global movement—that is breathtaking and full of hope. From San Francisco to Sao Paulo to the Wild Coast of South Africa, we are a global community—and we are powerful."

Grassroots grit, global impact: SF’s Goldman Prize salutes world environmental warriors

Partnered with <a href="https://richmondsf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Richmond Neighborhood Center&nbsp;</a>

Partnered with <a href="https://richmondsf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Richmond Neighborhood Center&nbsp;</a>

When Michelle Cusano first moved to San Francisco after graduating from college in Ohio, she found herself easily embracing life in the Richmond neighborhood: a vibrant area where languages spoken range from Cantonese and Mandarin to Spanish, Russian, Tagalog, Japanese and more.&nbsp;

When Michelle Cusano first moved to San Francisco after graduating from college in Ohio, she found herself easily embracing life in the Richmond neighborhood: a vibrant area where languages spoken range from Cantonese and Mandarin to Spanish, Russian, Tagalog, Japanese and more.&nbsp;

With a passion for social justice, Cusano accepted a job at The Richmond Neighborhood Center, a local nonprofit organization with a youth development mission, and found herself more immersed in the community, drawn to supporting her neighbors through her work at the center.&nbsp;

With a passion for social justice, Cusano accepted a job at The Richmond Neighborhood Center, a local nonprofit organization with a youth development mission, and found herself more immersed in the community, drawn to supporting her neighbors through her work at the center.&nbsp;

“When I started at The Richmond Neighborhood Center, I knew I found my place where I could make positive change in the world,” Cusano said.&nbsp;

“When I started at The Richmond Neighborhood Center, I knew I found my place where I could make positive change in the world,” Cusano said.&nbsp;

That was 20 years ago. Now, Cusano is the executive director of The Richmond Neighborhood Center, which, in addition to providing after-school and community programming, has a robust food security program as well. At least 19,000 people in the Richmond neighborhood are at risk of food insecurity, according to a 2018 Assessment of Food Security by the San Francisco Food Security Task Force.&nbsp;

That was 20 years ago. Now, Cusano is the executive director of The Richmond Neighborhood Center, which, in addition to providing after-school and community programming, has a robust food security program as well. At least 19,000 people in the Richmond neighborhood are at risk of food insecurity, according to a 2018 Assessment of Food Security by the San Francisco Food Security Task Force.&nbsp;

Michelle Cusano is the Executive Director of the Richmond Neighborhood Center. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/webiste_cover1_3000x2000.jpg?w=2500" alt="A smiling woman with curly hair, in front of a white car with the word &quot;WAYMO&quot; on it." class="wp-image-262825"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Michelle Cusano is the executive director of The Richmond Neighborhood Center. </figcaption></figure>

“That can be families who are concerned about ‘How are we going to afford to feed our children their next meal?’ And it can be a senior who's living alone who doesn't have the ability to get to and from the grocery store,” Cusano explained.&nbsp;

“That can be families who are concerned about ‘How are we going to afford to feed our children their next meal?’ And it can be a senior who's living alone who doesn't have the ability to get to and from the grocery store,” Cusano explained.&nbsp;

In addition to offering food-insecure neighbors access to a food pantry where they can pick up fresh, free groceries, The Richmond Neighborhood Center also operates an active grocery delivery program serving local seniors and adults living with disabilities. Volunteers—who play an essential role in the non-profit’s day-to-day operations—pick up the groceries and then deliver them to community members facing mobility challenges.&nbsp;

In addition to offering food-insecure neighbors access to a food pantry where they can pick up fresh, free groceries, The Richmond Neighborhood Center also operates an active grocery delivery program serving local seniors and adults living with disabilities. Volunteers—who play an essential role in the non-profit’s day-to-day operations—pick up the groceries and then deliver them to community members facing mobility challenges.&nbsp;

“We're serving a thousand people a week, and that's just scratching the surface,” Cusano said.&nbsp;

“We're serving a thousand people a week, and that's just scratching the surface,” Cusano said.&nbsp;

Cusano—who believes San Francisco has an opportunity to showcase how its cutting-edge technology can be used for good—says she can imagine how tech innovation, including Waymo’s autonomous vehicles, could help support the center’s mission.&nbsp;

Cusano—who believes San Francisco has an opportunity to showcase how its cutting-edge technology can be used for good—says she can imagine how tech innovation, including Waymo’s autonomous vehicles, could help support the center’s mission.&nbsp;

The Richmond Neighborhood Center volunteers organize food for the Center's food pantry and home-delivered groceries program.

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/daily_newsletter2_900x600.jpg" alt="People are distributing supplies from pallets on a sunny street." class="wp-image-262826"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Richmond Neighborhood Center volunteers organize food for the Center's food pantry and home-delivered groceries program.</figcaption></figure>

“When I first heard of Waymo’s autonomous vehicles, I immediately realized [that] there are so many possibilities here to make our work easier and make more access points for our youth and our seniors,” Cusano said.&nbsp;

“When I first heard of Waymo’s autonomous vehicles, I immediately realized [that] there are so many possibilities here to make our work easier and make more access points for our youth and our seniors,” Cusano said.&nbsp;

Cusano believes seniors who face mobility challenges—including those who are isolated without support systems—could use Waymo to get to and from The Richmond Neighborhood Center’s food pantry and stay to relax in the center's courtyard, laugh, and talk to their friends. Not only would this allow them to maintain a level of independence, but it would also give them the opportunity to connect with others and enjoy a greater quality of life.&nbsp;

Cusano believes seniors who face mobility challenges—including those who are isolated without support systems—could use Waymo to get to and from The Richmond Neighborhood Center’s food pantry and stay to relax in the center's courtyard, laugh, and talk to their friends. Not only would this allow them to maintain a level of independence, but it would also give them the opportunity to connect with others and enjoy a greater quality of life.&nbsp;

“Some of our seniors have had to move to the homebound senior program because they can't get to and from this space where they get to hang out with their friends as easily anymore,” Cusano explained.&nbsp;

“Some of our seniors have had to move to the homebound senior program because they can't get to and from this space where they get to hang out with their friends as easily anymore,” Cusano explained.&nbsp;

Cusano adds that Waymo’s autonomous driving technology can offer residents an additional mobility option to connect with their communities.&nbsp;

Cusano adds that Waymo’s autonomous driving technology can offer residents an additional mobility option to connect with their communities.&nbsp;

“It's all about accessibility: accessibility to community programs, accessibility to your friends,” Cusano said. “It gives you more opportunities to be joyful and to be part of your community, and be with your neighbors.”&nbsp;

“It's all about accessibility: accessibility to community programs, accessibility to your friends,” Cusano said. “It gives you more opportunities to be joyful and to be part of your community, and be with your neighbors.”&nbsp;

That’s something Mary Beth Roberts, a resident of the Richmond neighborhood, says she appreciates about The Richmond Neighborhood Center. During an extremely difficult time in her life, she turned to the center for assistance and met other people in similar situations, which helped her feel less isolated.&nbsp;

That’s something Mary Beth Roberts, a resident of the Richmond neighborhood, says she appreciates about The Richmond Neighborhood Center. During an extremely difficult time in her life, she turned to the center for assistance and met other people in similar situations, which helped her feel less isolated.&nbsp;

“You see a lot of familiar faces,” Roberts said. “It builds a community.”&nbsp;

“You see a lot of familiar faces,” Roberts said. “It builds a community.”&nbsp;

Community volunteers of the Richmond Neighborhood Center prepare to load groceries for delivery into Waymo car.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/weekly_newsletter2_900x600.jpg" alt="People wearing face masks walk along a sunny, plant-lined street with boxes nearby." class="wp-image-262827"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Through volunteer-run food pantries, The Richmond Neighborhood Center provides free produce and groceries to over 1000 Richmond District residents each week.</figcaption></figure>

Cusano said that Waymo could help the center focus on building connections between people.&nbsp;

Cusano said that Waymo could help the center focus on building connections between people.&nbsp;

“Being able to use technology to help us get food delivered would allow our staff and volunteers to focus on what we are really good at: building community,” she said.&nbsp;

“Being able to use technology to help us get food delivered would allow our staff and volunteers to focus on what we are really good at: building community,” she said.&nbsp;

Through a partnership between The Richmond Neighborhood Center and Waymo, Cusano was invited to experience a Waymo One ride firsthand in 2021. Since then, she has become a frequent rider and cites safety and convenience as two of her biggest motivating factors.&nbsp;

Through a partnership between The Richmond Neighborhood Center and Waymo, Cusano was invited to experience a Waymo One ride firsthand in 2021. Since then, she has become a frequent rider and cites safety and convenience as two of her biggest motivating factors.&nbsp;

“I have taken Waymo to and from work, to pick up friends along the way for a night out, and I have even taken out-of-town guests in a Waymo. ... I'm thankful to be living in a city that embraces technology when it can improve our lives with convenient and safe modes of transit,” Cusano said.&nbsp;

“I have taken Waymo to and from work, to pick up friends along the way for a night out, and I have even taken out-of-town guests in a Waymo. ... I'm thankful to be living in a city that embraces technology when it can improve our lives with convenient and safe modes of transit,” Cusano said.&nbsp;

Cusano says she aspires for The Richmond Neighborhood Center’s work to be seen as innovative too, especially when it comes to making San Francisco an inclusive place to live for all people and families.&nbsp;

Cusano says she aspires for The Richmond Neighborhood Center’s work to be seen as innovative too, especially when it comes to making San Francisco an inclusive place to live for all people and families.&nbsp;

Waymo provides fully autonomous rides, with no human driver behind the wheel, to the public, 24/7 across San Francisco. Waymo is building on the experience and insights it has gained from operating its&nbsp;fully autonomous ride-hailing service, Waymo One, in Metro Phoenix since 2020.

Waymo provides fully autonomous rides, with no human driver behind the wheel, to the public, 24/7 across San Francisco. Waymo is building on the experience and insights it has gained from operating its&nbsp;fully autonomous ride-hailing service, Waymo One, in Metro Phoenix since 2020.

A waitlist is available for the public to ride in LA, and testing continues in Austin, Texas.&nbsp;

A waitlist is available for the public to ride in LA, and testing continues in Austin, Texas.&nbsp;

Learn more about <a href="https://waymo.com/community/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Waymo’s work in the community</a>.

Learn more about <a href="https://waymo.com/community/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Waymo’s work in the community</a>.

Waymo’s autonomous vehicles help connect communities, SF nonprofit leader says

Meandering southward through the tree-lined streets of San Francisco, you move instinctively toward the enticing aroma of fresh tortillas.&nbsp;

Meandering southward through the tree-lined streets of San Francisco, you move instinctively toward the enticing aroma of fresh tortillas.&nbsp;

Ranchera music flows through air as you begin to see bright pops of color from wallside murals and local shops brimming with curiosities. Your senses are active as you naturally feel welcomed into your surroundings.&nbsp;

Ranchera music flows through air as you begin to see bright pops of color from wallside murals and local shops brimming with curiosities. Your senses are active as you naturally feel welcomed into your surroundings.&nbsp;

There is no mistaking it: You have found your way to the warmest portion of the city, the historic Mission district.

There is no mistaking it: You have found your way to the warmest portion of the city, the historic Mission district.

One of San Francisco's eight cultural districts, the Mission or <a href="https://www.calle24sf.org/about">Calle 24</a>, represents Latino culture and is home to more than 400 businesses and services. It is a vibrant neighborhood, renowned for its unique stores, incredible food and cultural events.

One of San Francisco's eight cultural districts, the Mission or <a href="https://www.calle24sf.org/about">Calle 24</a>, represents Latino culture and is home to more than 400 businesses and services. It is a vibrant neighborhood, renowned for its unique stores, incredible food and cultural events.

Mission Lotería guests check in for pop-up event at El Tiangue 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/dscf0664.jpg?w=2500" alt="Three people converse near a table with colorful decorations, balloons, and papers at an indoor event." class="wp-image-242428"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mission Lotería guests check in for pop-up event at El Tiangue </figcaption></figure>

In response to a <a href="https://sfbos.org/supervisor-ronen-newsletter">notice by District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen</a>, several organizations have collaborated to create an initiative titled Shop the Mission. On Dec. 7, two new marketplaces were launched: El Tiangue and La Placita. While food vending is still allowed, retail vending has now shifted to these two sites, and each hosts special events. Visit both markets and have fun playing Mission Lotería, a “shop small, support local” initiative, combining local art and small businesses with imagery inspired by the Mission. To play, simply shop at participating businesses and collect a Mission Lotería sticker with your purchase.

In response to a <a href="https://sfbos.org/supervisor-ronen-newsletter">notice by District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen</a>, several organizations have collaborated to create an initiative titled Shop the Mission. On Dec. 7, two new marketplaces were launched: El Tiangue and La Placita. While food vending is still allowed, retail vending has now shifted to these two sites, and each hosts special events. Visit both markets and have fun playing Mission Lotería, a “shop small, support local” initiative, combining local art and small businesses with imagery inspired by the Mission. To play, simply shop at participating businesses and collect a Mission Lotería sticker with your purchase.

El Tiangue 2137 Mission St. Open daily, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Large indoor retail space converted into a pulgita for vendors Managed by CLECHA | <a href="http://clecha.org">clecha.org</a>

El Tiangue 2137 Mission St. Open daily, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Large indoor retail space converted into a pulgita for vendors Managed by CLECHA | <a href="http://clecha.org">clecha.org</a>

La Placita 24th and Capp streets Open Tuesdays-Saturdays | 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Public space built for community arts, cultural events and the weekly Mission Community Market Managed by Calle24 | <a href="http://calle24sf.org">calle24sf.org</a>

La Placita 24th and Capp streets Open Tuesdays-Saturdays | 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Public space built for community arts, cultural events and the weekly Mission Community Market Managed by Calle24 | <a href="http://calle24sf.org">calle24sf.org</a>

"Postres del Corazón" Feb. 9 | 5:30 -7:30 p.m.

"Postres del Corazón" Feb. 9 | 5:30 -7:30 p.m.

Mission Lotería and Amor 100.3 FM Radio Pop-Up Feb. 17 &amp; 24 | Noon-4 p.m.

Mission Lotería and Amor 100.3 FM Radio Pop-Up Feb. 17 &amp; 24 | Noon-4 p.m.

Along with these new marketplaces, the brick-and-mortar businesses of the Mission are the very bond connecting the community. The neighborhood offers a mix of legacy businesses with long histories, and new ventures that bring a creative eye to the district.

Along with these new marketplaces, the brick-and-mortar businesses of the Mission are the very bond connecting the community. The neighborhood offers a mix of legacy businesses with long histories, and new ventures that bring a creative eye to the district.

Enjoy some of the country's best Mexican food at <a href="https://lataqueriasf.com/">La Taqueria</a> or <a href="https://elfarolitosf.com/">El Farolito</a>. Take in a movie with some truffle popcorn at the <a href="https://drafthouse.com/sf">Alamo Drafthouse</a>, or dance to live music and enjoy authentic Senegalese bites at <a href="https://www.bissapbaobab.com/">Bissap Baobab</a>, after strolling down Valencia Street's recently expanded sidewalks. Explore the handcrafted goods at boutiques like <a href="https://dcopperplus.business.site/">Dcopperplus</a>, then sip a margarita flight at <a href="https://www.tiochilos.com/">Tio Chilo's</a>. There is much to recommend this legendary district, known for the resilience of its entrepreneurs and residents.&nbsp;

Enjoy some of the country's best Mexican food at <a href="https://lataqueriasf.com/">La Taqueria</a> or <a href="https://elfarolitosf.com/">El Farolito</a>. Take in a movie with some truffle popcorn at the <a href="https://drafthouse.com/sf">Alamo Drafthouse</a>, or dance to live music and enjoy authentic Senegalese bites at <a href="https://www.bissapbaobab.com/">Bissap Baobab</a>, after strolling down Valencia Street's recently expanded sidewalks. Explore the handcrafted goods at boutiques like <a href="https://dcopperplus.business.site/">Dcopperplus</a>, then sip a margarita flight at <a href="https://www.tiochilos.com/">Tio Chilo's</a>. There is much to recommend this legendary district, known for the resilience of its entrepreneurs and residents.&nbsp;


The Mission Lotería team with street vendors at El Tiangue at a pop-up event

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/dscf0647.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of smiling people posing at a festive gathering with colorful balloons and decorative paper in the background." class="wp-image-242436"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">
The Mission Lotería team with street vendors at El Tiangue at a pop-up event</figcaption></figure>

To keep up with the latest Mission events and updates, visit <a href="http://sf.gov/shop-mission">sf.gov/shop-mission</a>. There, you can view event details and artwork, and learn more about the organizations working together on Shop the Mission. Then find your way to the neighborhood itself, taking in the many sights, sounds and flavors on offer, all while supporting the local businesses that enliven the city.

To keep up with the latest Mission events and updates, visit <a href="http://sf.gov/shop-mission">sf.gov/shop-mission</a>. There, you can view event details and artwork, and learn more about the organizations working together on Shop the Mission. Then find your way to the neighborhood itself, taking in the many sights, sounds and flavors on offer, all while supporting the local businesses that enliven the city.

Shop the Mission

Providing internet service to residents of San Francisco comes with high expectations.&nbsp;

Providing internet service to residents of San Francisco comes with high expectations.&nbsp;

Peek inside one of the city’s apartment buildings on any given evening, and you may find a software engineer working on an urgent deadline, a family preparing to settle in for a movie night or a gaggle of roommates, all logged on in their rooms with their own needs in mind. These are the customers that co-founders Rudy Rucker and Alex Menendez seek to serve with Monkeybrains.&nbsp;

Peek inside one of the city’s apartment buildings on any given evening, and you may find a software engineer working on an urgent deadline, a family preparing to settle in for a movie night or a gaggle of roommates, all logged on in their rooms with their own needs in mind. These are the customers that co-founders Rudy Rucker and Alex Menendez seek to serve with Monkeybrains.&nbsp;

Founded in 1998, the colorfully named San Francisco company’s humble origins saw the operation begin as a dial-up ISP operated out of a warehouse. Run with just a few desktop computers connected to some modems, Monkeybrains finally moved from its original home to a proper data center in the early 2000s. From its new location, the ISP was able to launch web hosting and colocation services, followed in 2009 by its bold entry into the world of providing wireless internet access.

Founded in 1998, the colorfully named San Francisco company’s humble origins saw the operation begin as a dial-up ISP operated out of a warehouse. Run with just a few desktop computers connected to some modems, Monkeybrains finally moved from its original home to a proper data center in the early 2000s. From its new location, the ISP was able to launch web hosting and colocation services, followed in 2009 by its bold entry into the world of providing wireless internet access.

Celebrating 25 years in business this year, Monkeybrains prides itself on providing affordable, hassle-free internet service to both residents and businesses in San Francisco. Available to residents for as little as $35 per month, Monkeybrains keeps things simple with month-to-month contracts and minimal wait times for installations. And of course, the service’s reliability and speed continue to remain top priorities for the local ISP.&nbsp;

Celebrating 25 years in business this year, Monkeybrains prides itself on providing affordable, hassle-free internet service to both residents and businesses in San Francisco. Available to residents for as little as $35 per month, Monkeybrains keeps things simple with month-to-month contracts and minimal wait times for installations. And of course, the service’s reliability and speed continue to remain top priorities for the local ISP.&nbsp;

During this impressive tenure, Monkeybrains has also prioritized charitable contributions to local causes. In 2023 alone, they’ve donated over $100,000 to a range of organizations, including the LatinX Democratic Club, Empower Me Academy’s youth basketball tournament, Fiesta de las Américas, the Harvey Milk Democratic Club, the Alice B. Toklas Democratic Club, SF Parks Alliance, Carnaval 2023, Folsom Street Faire, and SF PRIDE.

During this impressive tenure, Monkeybrains has also prioritized charitable contributions to local causes. In 2023 alone, they’ve donated over $100,000 to a range of organizations, including the LatinX Democratic Club, Empower Me Academy’s youth basketball tournament, Fiesta de las Américas, the Harvey Milk Democratic Club, the Alice B. Toklas Democratic Club, SF Parks Alliance, Carnaval 2023, Folsom Street Faire, and SF PRIDE.

Additionally, Monkeybrains also participates in the Vacant to Vibrant program, which provides free internet for participating "activators." In total, Monkeybrains currently operates a hybrid network of fiber optic and high-capacity wireless links that service over 20,000 locations. With over 100 new clients being added every week, the company’s goal is to “push the limits of available technology” while simultaneously overdelivering on bandwidth.

Additionally, Monkeybrains also participates in the Vacant to Vibrant program, which provides free internet for participating "activators." In total, Monkeybrains currently operates a hybrid network of fiber optic and high-capacity wireless links that service over 20,000 locations. With over 100 new clients being added every week, the company’s goal is to “push the limits of available technology” while simultaneously overdelivering on bandwidth.

Another highlight of Monkeybrains’ operations is their <a href="https://tech.sfgov.org/news/fiber-housing/">Fiber to Housing Partnership</a> with the City and County of San Francisco, which currently provides free high-speed internet to over 3,500 units of affordable housing across the city—and with many more to come soon. In the interim, San Francisco affordable housing residents are encouraged to check the FTH Partnership’s website to see if they may already have free internet.

Another highlight of Monkeybrains’ operations is their <a href="https://tech.sfgov.org/news/fiber-housing/">Fiber to Housing Partnership</a> with the City and County of San Francisco, which currently provides free high-speed internet to over 3,500 units of affordable housing across the city—and with many more to come soon. In the interim, San Francisco affordable housing residents are encouraged to check the FTH Partnership’s website to see if they may already have free internet.

According to a <a href="https://www.sfweekly.com/archives/can-san-francisco-finally-close-its-digital-divide/article_a9c60f5a-1538-5126-8386-6b9359cea542.html">2019 estimate</a>, Monkeybrains' collaboration with the City and County of San Francisco is expected to provide a service benefit of “some $400 million” over a period of 20 years. The company also rose to the challenge at the onset of the Covid pandemic, where Monkeybrains worked with the city to provide internet for essential workers at emergency Covid shelters.&nbsp;

According to a <a href="https://www.sfweekly.com/archives/can-san-francisco-finally-close-its-digital-divide/article_a9c60f5a-1538-5126-8386-6b9359cea542.html">2019 estimate</a>, Monkeybrains' collaboration with the City and County of San Francisco is expected to provide a service benefit of “some $400 million” over a period of 20 years. The company also rose to the challenge at the onset of the Covid pandemic, where Monkeybrains worked with the city to provide internet for essential workers at emergency Covid shelters.&nbsp;

Partnering with San Francisco’s Department of Technology, the company was able to build the necessary links in record time, providing internet services to an estimated six emergency hospitals in the area. That’s the big stuff. But Monkeybrains isn’t only committed to showing up for the community in large ways—it wants to be there for its customers for the small things as well.&nbsp;

Partnering with San Francisco’s Department of Technology, the company was able to build the necessary links in record time, providing internet services to an estimated six emergency hospitals in the area. That’s the big stuff. But Monkeybrains isn’t only committed to showing up for the community in large ways—it wants to be there for its customers for the small things as well.&nbsp;

In practical terms, that means a friendly local support team who will actually answer the phone when you call, speedy installation services, and no contracts obligating anyone to stay. But while many companies are leaving the city, Monkeybrains is doubling down and customers have stayed, thanks to their impeccable reputation and rare success as a locally born ISP competing against the corporate goliaths in the field.

In practical terms, that means a friendly local support team who will actually answer the phone when you call, speedy installation services, and no contracts obligating anyone to stay. But while many companies are leaving the city, Monkeybrains is doubling down and customers have stayed, thanks to their impeccable reputation and rare success as a locally born ISP competing against the corporate goliaths in the field.

Monkeybrains is a supporter of net neutrality, a neighbor to the customers it serves and perennially focused on delivering the best internet experience at an affordable price. The time’s never been better to check to see if Monkeybrains’ services are <a href="https://www.monkeybrains.net/coverage.php">available in your area</a>.

Monkeybrains is a supporter of net neutrality, a neighbor to the customers it serves and perennially focused on delivering the best internet experience at an affordable price. The time’s never been better to check to see if Monkeybrains’ services are <a href="https://www.monkeybrains.net/coverage.php">available in your area</a>.

Blazing Fast Speeds and Community Service: What Makes Monkeybrains Unique

With throngs of people stretching down Mission Street as far as the eye could see, San Francisco’s oft-forgotten Excelsior neighborhood found itself the star of the city on a fittingly warm fall afternoon. Marking the culmination of the 2023 Sunday Streets season on Sunday, the sunny scene along a 10-block stretch was filled with booths, activities and a palpably joyous energy caused by people coming together.

With throngs of people stretching down Mission Street as far as the eye could see, San Francisco’s oft-forgotten Excelsior neighborhood found itself the star of the city on a fittingly warm fall afternoon. Marking the culmination of the 2023 Sunday Streets season on Sunday, the sunny scene along a 10-block stretch was filled with booths, activities and a palpably joyous energy caused by people coming together.

Featuring a calendar booked from May to October with monthly, free celebrations of San Francisco neighborhoods, the nonprofit Livable City’s Sunday Streets program creates tangible, in-person opportunities for families, community organizations and local small businesses to congregate, play and share resources. Sunday’s activities in the Excelsior were complemented by citywide block parties held in recognition of the third annual <a href="https://www.sundaystreetssf.com/phoenixday/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phoenix Day</a>, also organized by Livable City.

Featuring a calendar booked from May to October with monthly, free celebrations of San Francisco neighborhoods, the nonprofit Livable City’s Sunday Streets program creates tangible, in-person opportunities for families, community organizations and local small businesses to congregate, play and share resources. Sunday’s activities in the Excelsior were complemented by citywide block parties held in recognition of the third annual <a href="https://www.sundaystreetssf.com/phoenixday/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phoenix Day</a>, also organized by Livable City.

Aided by a strong sun and a weak 49ers game on television, Sunday Streets Excelsior saw thousands of folks swing by and take a stroll—some native to the area, others grateful for a chance to come and explore a spot in San Francisco they often fail to visit.

Aided by a strong sun and a weak 49ers game on television, Sunday Streets Excelsior saw thousands of folks swing by and take a stroll—some native to the area, others grateful for a chance to come and explore a spot in San Francisco they often fail to visit.

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