In 2021 the GJAOC established this Committee to acknowledge Orange County Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) that address critical community concerns raised by former Grand Juries. If you would like to suggest an organization, email the Recognition Committee Chair.
2024
This year the GJAOC recognized and honored two organizations that diligently address issues of interest to previous Grand Juries, namely protection of our environment, its flora and fauna. Representatives delivered presentations at the September 12 luncheon at the Santa Ana Elks Lodge.
OC Animal Allies began in 1984 as a small group of resolute animal lovers in Orange County who joined together to form an organization dedicated to helping Orange County residents and animals. It is an independent, volunteer-driven, non-profit and is not affiliated with any other SPCA, including the ASPCA. Kevin Marlin, Executive Director of OC Animal Allies, spoke to the group. In addition, Misty Marlin brought along two trained therapy pups. His presentation can be found here.
The Natural Communities Coalition (NCC) was established in 1996 as one of the first steps following the signing of a landscape-scale habitat planning and conservation effort to provide long-term protection for wildlife and their critical habitats, and regulatory assurances and economic benefits for participating landowners. It initially was known as the Nature Reserve of Orange County. Darin Loughrey, Outreach and Engagement Coordinator of Natural Communities Coalition, gave a presentation on his organization. His presentation can be found here.
GJAOC members are encouraged to learn more about the valuable work that these two collaborations do: https://www.ocanimalallies.org/ and https://occonservation.org/
2023
In 2023 the GJAOC recognized five 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on the overarching issue of domestic violence.
- K(her)ur: Provides education, mentorship, long-term employment, and SAVOR food service training to survivors of Orange County-based human trafficking and at-risk women.
- The Eli House: Provides shelter, counseling, and added essential services for abused children and their families.
- Caterina’s Club: Provides warm meals, affordable housing aid, and job training for homeless and low-income families.
- Radiant Futures (Formerly Women’s Transitional Living Center): Provides crisis support services for survivors of domestic violence, and education to prevent domestic violence and trafficking.
- Laura’s House: Provides shelter, counseling, life skills education and legal advocacy for abused women, men, and children.
2022
In 2022 the GJAOC recognized Robyne’s Nest. The organization provides at-risk and homeless students, who have little to no parental support, with the resources to complete high school and pursue a path to self-sufficiency. Our students are referred to us by the Huntington Beach and Newport Mesa school districts and students must be alcohol and drug-free. For more information, visit their website at robynesnest.org.
2021
In 2021 the GJAOC recognized Be Well. The organization is working to make Orange County the happiest and healthiest community in the United States—and that starts with a world-class mental health care system. The mission is to make compassionate mental health care more accessible for our community. For more information, visit their website at bewelloc.org.