I am so grateful for today. Earth Day is one of my favorite days - it is a day where people can plant a tree for the first time, try a new plant based recipe, or have the perfect excuse to plant an herb garden. Everyone on social media is doing their part to inspire and encourage one another through thoughtful reflections on current environmental events or providing simple tips to being more sustainable in daily life. 

It is a unique time. This year, Earth Day falls on a day where people are not allowed to gather yet they still want to celebrate because many of us recognize that our planet is a special gift. Our solitude and the ability to slow down during this Coronavirus pandemic has collectively shifted our perspective and allowed us to meditate on our values and priorities. Many are sitting in their backyards with their families, appreciating their home gardens. Others are taking walks outdoors on their own, sharing a moment of silence with nature. It has been reported that air quality has improved drastically in major cities around the world due to the decrease in transport and travel. Animal populations are growing due to their ability to roam freely without human interruption. 

The fast life as we knew it came to a screeching halt, and after many of us have adjusted, we are able to see so clearly how amazing the impact has been on our relationship with ourselves, each other, and the planet. These are the things which we truly depend on - we would be very limited without the support of our community and we would not survive without the resources our planet provides. Therefore, we need to strengthen and reinforce the value of connection to our neighbors, our local businesses, and our food and water systems. 

Our greatest impact is within our own community. We have seen now more than ever that we are all interconnected, which means as our community rises and thrives it is bound to have a ripple effect and extend outward. All of the Earth's biological systems are dependent on one another - that which happens on one side of the planet is bound to impact the other. As we improve our soil here in Southern California, so should it have an impact on the water systems that run through and across the nation. As we reduce the amount of waste generated here, so will it impact global carbon emissions. 

As an organization we have been able to survive because of the wonderful people we have met here in Orange County. They believe in our mission and provide us with an endless well of support. We have hugged, shaken hands, and exchanged ideas face-to-face with our neighbors and supporters. We have returned that support by investing in their businesses and advertised the good work they've done in the community. 

Today, we invite you to support your neighbor just like the Earth supports you. Nature is a beautiful example of the cycle of giving and receiving. The more you give, the more you're bound to receive. 

We would like to highlight some special people that empower our community with every thing they do. 

Backyard Bees 
Nikki is an amazing beekeeper that is so passionate about her craft and strives to provide our community with sustainably sourced local honey. Just from knowing Nikki, we know that she cares for each and every one of her beautiful bees! We would not trust anyone else with our honey cravings! Nikki cares so much about educating the community about bee-keeping practices and has helped us with our Coronavirus Crisis Support efforts! 
Support Backyard Bees here

Eco Now
Thea is a powerful female entrepreneur who has opened her own waste-free shop! She is very knowledgeable about zero-waste lifestyle and strives to give the community affordable options for items like laundry detergent, body care, and cleaning supplies! They have a storefront at the Lab in Costa Mesa as well as an online store! 
Support Eco Now here

Disorganized Depictions
Derrik is an amazing artist that has started his own socially-responsible apparel company! A percentage of the profit made from selling his clothing is donated to foster-care, homelessness, and supporting our Coronavirus Crisis Support campaign! 
Support Disorganized Depictions here

We feel so honored and excited to have Derrik Diza from Disorganized Depictions as a part of our first Art for the People event! Derrik's values very much align with the Community Consciousness vision and mission, where business is meant to benefit the community and purchases are made with a purpose! We asked Derrik what he advocates for and why he creates as an artist. 

He went on to describe why he pioneered his apparel company, and the vision he has for himself socially and professionally. He lives his life emphasizing the importance in giving back to his community. 

"Disorganized Depictions is an art & apparel company rooted in philanthropy and creativity.  The company creates original pieces and clothing that helps to support different causes.  Some causes include helping fundraise for foster homes in Orange County, refugees in Yemen, and direct relief to the homeless.  The company seeks to inspire creativity and instill awareness through its products and branding.  Being involved in Art for People is a great opportunity to help us promote the general welfare for artists and the local community here in Orange County".