Experience the Valley
“…A landscape was displayed that after all my wanderings still appears as the most beautiful I have ever beheld. At my feet lay the Great Central Valley of California, level and flowery, like a lake of pure sunshine…” –John Muir
Cleaning up a local community in Stockton
Enjoying the cool waters of the American River
Beautifying a baseball facility at a local park in Stockton
Breakfast at American River
MOVE staff waiting to depart on trips
Erosion control at American River
The Central Valley consists of the Sacramento Valley to the North and the San Joaquin Valley to the South. Measuring over 400 miles in length, it is the fastest growing region in California. The Central Valley is one of the world's most productive agricultural regions. With the increasing population and the reduction of natural habitat in place of agricultural crops, there is a great need for volunteerism. The creation of housing for families in need, the restoration of wildlife habitat and native plant species, and the need to reduce pollution in our waterways requires the hands of many citizens to make positive impact. The Valley experience of MOVE is a great opportunity to connect with your local community.
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Option 1: American River, Coloma Valley
This is a "golden" opportunity! The American River was at the heart of the California Gold Rush and now awaits you for two days of exploration. Get ready to get wet on the first day of this overnight trip as you put on a life jacket and raft down the whitewater of the South Fork of the American River! After a full day of rafting we will camp out on the shore in an established campground (tents and pads provided… you bring the sleeping bag/comforter and pillow). After experiencing the rush of the rapids on day one, you will spend day two teaming up with volunteers from the American River Conservancy to help expand the riverside trail system. This will be an exciting and refreshing adventure!
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Option 2: Cosumnes River Preserve, Central Valley
The Cosumnes River flows through one of the biologically richest regions in the Central Valley. The waters of the Cosumnes eventually merge into the San Joaquin Delta. The Preserve safeguards unique landscape that is home to more than 250 species of birds, more than 40 fish species, and some 230 plant species. Spend the day learning about the Preserve, and working to help protect this important habitat. After a rewarding day of volunteering and touring the Preserve by canoe, you will have the option to attend a Ports game at the Banner Island Ballpark (limited space available), or stay on campus for some fun, social activities. You will stay in your new residence hall that night and then have the opportunity to spend the next day at Pacific making new friendships and getting to know your campus and local community.
* Please see additional information about this location at the bottom of the page.
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Option 3: Habitat for Humanity, San Joaquin Valley
Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) is a non-profit organization that seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world. The San Joaquin County affiliate is charged with carrying out this effort. Your day with HFHI will allow you to contribute toward the building of homes in the Stockton area for deserving families. After a rewarding day of volunteering, you will have the option to attend a Ports game at the Banner Island Ballpark (limited space available), or stay on campus for some fun, social activities. You will stay in your new residence hall that night and then have the opportunity to spend the next day at Pacific making new friendships and getting to know your campus and local community.
* Please see additional information about this location at the bottom of the page.
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Option 4: Local Stockton Community, San Joaquin Valley
Become familiar with your new hometown and make your mark on the Stockton community. The day will start with exciting and inspiring opportunities to help out some local organizations in the San Joaquin Valley. Hop on the bus with your fellow students and head off campus to lend a helping hand. After a rewarding day of volunteering, you will have the option to attend a Ports game at the Banner Island Ballpark (limited space available), or stay on campus for some fun, social activities. You will stay in your new residence hall that night and then have the opportunity to spend the next day at Pacific making new friendships and getting to know your campus and local community.
* Please see additional information about this location at the bottom of the page.
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Option 5: Valley Stewardship, Central Valley
The Central Valley of California is home to the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the many tributaries that feed into the Delta waters. On this experience you will have the opportunity to learn more about the Central Valley and the parks, trails, and waterways that comprise the valley. Through participation in this service project you will make an impact on the environment by helping to restore habitat or by working to beautify trails and tributaries. After a rewarding day of volunteering, you will have the option to attend a Ports game at the Banner Island Ballpark (limited space available), or stay on campus for some fun, social activities. You will stay in your new residence hall that night and then have the opportunity to spend the next day at Pacific making new friendships and getting to know your campus and local community.
* Please see additional information about this location at the bottom of the page.
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* The majority of activities for this MOVE option will occur on Friday; additional activities are scheduled for Saturday. Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis to miss the Saturday activities. You will stay in your residence hall or at your private residence for the night. Please contact the MOVE Director at move@pacific.edu, if it is necessary for you to be excused from Saturday activities. This is a perfect choice for individuals who are unable to travel out of town in order to participate.
