Ocean Discovery Institute works within the community of City Heights in central San Diego, a neighborhood of cultural and linguistic richness, but also a neighborhood in great need, where environmental, social and educational issues are closely intertwined.
Among the most diverse neighborhoods in the nation, City Heights is a densely urbanized community of nearly 80,000 people. The community has a 38% poverty rate and more than 99% of children in the community are eligible for federal free lunch programs. The residents of City Heights speak more than 30 different languages and almost half were born in another country and have immigrated to the United States. From the perspective of Ocean Discovery Institute, this diversity is an extraordinary asset.
City Heights is positioned as a key location to understand urban to coastal connections. The community abuts six canyons that are part of watersheds that lead to the Pacific Ocean. There is significant opportunity to use these canyons as an education tool and a venue for environmental stewardship.
Today Ocean Discovery Institute provides services at seven public schools in City Heights, reaching more than 4,500 young people each year.
In City Heights, canyons bisect highly urbanized neighborhoods.
Among the most diverse neighborhoods in the nation, City Heights is a densely urbanized community of nearly 80,000 people. The community has a 38% poverty rate and more than 99% of children in the community are eligible for federal free lunch programs. The residents of City Heights speak more than 30 different languages and almost half were born in another country and have immigrated to the United States. From the perspective of Ocean Discovery Institute, this diversity is an extraordinary asset.
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Meet Amina >
Amina is not unlike many young people in City Heights. This incredibly diverse and culturally rich community is home to almost 80,000 individuals... read entire story > |
Today Ocean Discovery Institute provides services at seven public schools in City Heights, reaching more than 4,500 young people each year.
In City Heights, canyons bisect highly urbanized neighborhoods.
Today Ocean Discovery Institute provides services at seven public schools in City Heights. Currently, more than 4,500 children and youth from City Heights participate in Ocean Discovery Institute programs each year.
Amina's Story - Building a Future in City Heights
NASA Astronaut, Megan McArthur
conducts island research with Amina
Became an Ocean Discovery Institute Student: 2007
Country of Origin: Born in Ethiopia, Amina spent much of her childhood growing up in a refugee camp in Kenya. Her mother, who had already been able to move to the United States, waited anxiously in City Heights for the time when her daughter would be able to join her. Amina too wished for the time to come, daily checking the board that posted the names of those selected that would be lucky enough to emigrate.
After three years, Amina's wait came to an end. "When I saw my name on the board, my eyes popped out! We saw pictures of schools and big houses and talked about hot running water. I never imagined I would have all this," says Amina.
Impact of Ocean Discovery Institute: While incredibly happy about her prospects in the U.S. and reuniting with her family, Amina struggled with school, making friends and learning the English language. She wished she could return to Ethiopia. But instead of giving in, at 14 years old, Amina made the decision to find new opportunities that would make her successful and happy. That's when she learned of the Ocean Discovery Institute and joined a science program that empowered her to gain scientific knowledge, conduct authentic research, and present her findings to scientists from across the nation. As an Ocean Leader Amina has also been able to prepare for college and explore potential career paths.
Amina's Dream for the Future:
Today, Amina wants to become the first in her family to go to college and then pursue her dream to become a marine scientist.
Amina is not unlike many young people in City Heights. This incredibly diverse and culturally rich community is home to almost 80,000 individuals; many who like Amina have faced challenges, but are taking advantage of unique opportunities to build a successful future.
"Back in Ethiopia, I never imagined I would have the opportunity to work with scientists who gave me inspiration to become the first female Ethiopian scientist in my family." - Amina Ture, 9th grade high school student
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