As 2025 approaches, we reflect on a year filled with growth, connection, and environmental stewardship. At the heart of everything we do is our purpose to connect children with nature through hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity, understanding, and a lifelong love for the environment. None of this would have been possible without the support of our donors, partners, and dedicated staff. Here are some of the year’s most meaningful highlights:
Nonprofit of the Year
We were honored to be named a 2024 California Nonprofit of the Year by the California Association of Nonprofits, thanks to Assembly Member Josh Hoover’s nomination. Celebrating at the State Capitol reaffirmed our commitment to helping children understand and value our natural world.
Community Connections
- Public Tours at Mather Field Vernal Pools:
Our dedicated staff and experienced docents guided families through the wet and flowering phases of the vernal pools. Visitors explored a fascinating ecosystem, observing aquatic invertebrates such as fairy shrimp, water fleas, flatworms, and copepods, along with amazing rings of flowers around the pools. These unforgettable experiences left guests inspired and connected to the natural world. - Wildlife Wednesday on Facebook:
Each week, we spotlight the diverse wildlife found in the Sacramento region, from native species to unexpected visitors. Follow us on Facebook @sacsplash to join the fun and learn more about the creatures that call our environment home! - Distinguished Visitors:
We were honored to host several distinguished guests this year, including Karen Ross, Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture; Rich Desmond and Patrick Kenndey, Sacramento County Board of Supervisors; Assembly Member Josh Hoover; Darren Suen, Elk Grove City Council Member; Dr. Jayna Karpinski-Costa, Citrus Heights Mayor; Caity Maple and Phil Pluckebaum, City of Sacramento City Councilmembers. While this list highlights some notable visitors, we’re grateful to everyone who took the time to visit, learn about our work, and support our mission of connecting kids with nature. - Podcast Spotlight:
CEO Mackenzie Wieser was featured on The Nonprofit Podcast Network with Jeff Holden, where she shared how Sacramento Splash connects kids with nature and fosters environmental stewardship. Check it out here.
Youth Empowerment
- Youth Environmental Leadership Camp (YELC):
We empowered 60 young environmental leaders this summer and taught them about roughly 65 different jobs in sustainable careers. Twenty-six leaders reported raising $2,425 for 11 environmentally focused organizations around Sacramento. These same leaders also engaged in over 150 hours of volunteer work for other organizations. - Project AWE:
In partnership with the Sacramento Area Sewer District (SacSewer), Project AWE provides 2nd-5th grade students with hands-on learning at the historic Nicolaus Dairy in Elk Grove, CA. Through Agriculture, Water, Energy, and the Environment (AWE) lessons, students explore local history while developing environmental awareness and sustainable practices. In 2024, we educated over 7,000 students through this program, connecting over 200 classrooms to our newest sustainability-centered program.
- Splash in the Class (SITC):
Through interactive 60-minute in-class presentations, students explore the aquatic food chain, learn about pollution prevention, and discover how everyday actions impact local creeks and rivers. Using engaging visuals, videos, and hands-on experiments, Splash in the Class inspires students to become environmental stewards in their communities. - NEW PROGRAM ALERT* Waste Education Program:
In partnership with Republic Services, this new program will educate students through a 60-minute in-class presentation about the importance of proper waste sorting in their homes. Organic waste, when broken down in landfills, generates toxic methane gases that are tragic for our environment. We aim to conduct 90 presentations before June 30, 2025.
Inspiring Alumni
This year, we proudly highlighted several standout alums whose journeys were shaped by their experiences at Sacramento Splash. One such story is Mathew, who first explored environmental science as a Splash student and now works for the Sacramento County Office of Planning and Environmental Review. These inspiring paths reflect the lasting impact of our programs and the future environmental leaders they help cultivate.
Organizational Growth & Awards
- Director of Development Hired:
This year, we welcomed a Director of Development to help strengthen our fundraising efforts, build partnerships, and expand our reach. This new role positions us for long-term growth and sustainability, allowing us to deepen our impact and connect even more children with nature in the years ahead. You might be hearing from Gina Fleming very soon! - Awards & Recognition:
Sacramento Splash received several prestigious honors this year, recognizing our commitment to environmental education and leadership. We were named Best Summer Camp in Sacramento and received the Outstanding Environmental Leadership Award. CEO Mackenzie Wieser was also honored with the Visionary Award from the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) of Sacramento Valley for her innovative leadership and dedication to connecting children with nature.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
From life-changing programs to transformative partnerships, every milestone in 2024 reflects the dedication of our entire community. Thank you for being an essential part of our journey. We look forward to connecting even more children with the wonders of nature in 2025!