We are so proud of The SAMO Youth program, who last month received the 2023 John Anson Ford (JAF) Human Relations Award. The award recognizes success in improving human relations in LA County. Specifically SAMO Youth was chosen for their work to make the outdoors and jobs in our public lands accessible to youth regardless of race/ethnicity, gender, and class.

Five of these awards are given each year for outstanding human relations projects and programs throughout the County — one for each of the five County Supervisorial Districts. Third District Supervisor Lindsey Horvath presented the award and Antonio Solorio spoke on behalf of the program.

Santa Monica Mountains Fund today welcomed the 22 outstanding young people who will be working with the National Park Service for the next eight weeks on a range of duties in the mountains.