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| Dream, Believe, ASCEND:
ASCENDtials' World of Opportunities |
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| Note from the Director
By Mika Marzette
This season is a celebration of all the effort we've poured into our goals—it’s a time when our work blossoms into meaningful opportunities for everyone involved, nurturing a deeper sense of alignment and reciprocity.
As the days grow longer and the air turns warm, we’re embracing every chance to be outdoors: hiking through trails scented with wildflowers, gathering for farmers’ markets under the open sky, rollerskating, walking and taking leisurely bike rides by the coast, or simply soaking up the sun while tending to gardens and beaches and highways. These seasonal rhythms keep us grounded, joyful, and connected to the earth—and to each other.
Let’s keep living in the moment, reveling in fresh air and golden light, with nature as our companion. See you soon. |
| | | | Welcome August & National Wellness Month at ASCENDtials
With the start of August comes the beginning of National Wellness Month. This year's theme, “Your Wealth is Your Health,” speaks directly to our mission at ASCENDtials—uplifting the community through health, education, and environmental care.
Farmers’ Markets
We’re excited to continue offering three ASCENDKemet Collective Certified (AKCC) Farmers’ Markets this month: City Heights – Every Saturday starting at 10 AM Marina District – Reopens August 1 after a short break and continues every Friday through the end of the year Oak Park – Launches August 9 and will run bi-weekly on Saturdays from 3 to 7 PM
Wellness at the Market
Each of our farmers’ markets include a one-hour yoga session. Registration is available through Eventbrite and space is limited, so be sure to sign up in advance.
Free Food Distribution – August 8
We’re hosting a free food distribution event open to all community members. Whether walking up or driving through, we welcome everyone to take part. Our goal is to promote food security and equitable access to healthy meals. You can register to participate online.
MLK Park Yoga – August 27
In partnership with Park Takeover, we will host a one-hour community yoga session at MLK Park. This is another great opportunity to engage in mindful movement while connecting with others in a beautiful outdoor space.
Environmental Wellness: Climate Cares Cleanups
At ASCENDtials, we know that wellness isn’t just about personal health—it’s also about the health of our environment. That’s why we’re continuing our Climate Cares Beach and Highway Cleanups throughout the month. These are great ways to give back, support environmental justice, and reconnect with the land. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or showing up for the first time, we’d love to have you join us.
Whether you're joining us for fresh produce, wellness activities, or community support, there's a place for you at ASCENDtials this August. Scroll below for this month’s calendar, flyers, links, and full event details. We look forward to seeing you soon. |
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| Richer than you Realize By: Esra Turhan, Graphic Design Volunteer
We often define wealth in terms of achievements, money, or material possessions, but the greatest wealth we own is our health. When we prioritize our health, we gain the energy to innovate and truly enjoy life. Healing our body, soothing our mind, and mending our spirit sets us up for a lively life full of energy, a strong mind that can face adversity with wisdom, and a livable future where we can keep growing despite age.
As great as it is to build a stock portfolio, our body is the most important resource we have, so we need to do what we can to treasure it. Simple daily choices—eating fresh, clean food, exercising, and allowing yourself recovery time—are actually investments. Just like compounding interest, these choices build over time, creating a foundation for long-term vitality. Small shifts—choosing water over soda, stretching instead of scrolling, or stepping outside for fresh air—can lead to lasting transformation. The dividends aren’t just years added to your life, but life added to your years.
At ASCENDtials, we do our part to help provide easy access to the things that truly make life rich for the whole community. We have lots of resources to help you wellness journey. With our ASCENDKemet Collective Farmers’ Market, Monthly Food Distributions, and many outdoor yoga sessions—the options are endless.
This August we honor National Wellness Month and are reminded that true wealth lies in our ability to care for ourselves and our communities—through movement, nourishment, and connection. Wellness is the foundation from which all abundance flows. So, we dare you to make your health your greatest type of wealth, because it affects everything else in your life.
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| | DON’T MISS OUT!!CLICK THE FLYERS FOR MORE DETAILS |
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| City Heights and Marina District Farmers’ Market Growth The City Heights Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday and the Marina District every Friday, offering certified fresh produce and local goods. We're working to bring in more local farmers and vendors each week, supporting community wellness and sustainability. Join us for vibrant, welcoming market days that celebrate fresh food and local connection—because everyone deserves access to healthy, nutritious food! Click the flyers to sign up!
Special Note! The City Heights Farmers’ Market is having a special promotion! Show the below flyer for 10% off your purchase! |
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| New Oak Park Market Launching August 9th!
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our newest ASCENDKemet Certified Farmers’ Market—now opening August 9th in the heart of a historically Black neighborhood, in collaboration with Fam Mart, a Black-owned shopping center.
Located at 1755 Euclid Ave, San Diego, CA 92105, this market will run bi-weekly on Saturdays from 3–7 PM, bringing fresh, affordable produce and accessible wellness resources to a community impacted by food insecurity.
Hosting a market in this area is more than just providing food—it’s about restoring access, dignity, and health in a designated food desert. We’re honored to help nourish neighbors, support Black businesses, and build a resilient, thriving community.
Although we had to push back the launch date, we’re excited to officially kick things off on August 9—and we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Help us spread the word! |
| Exciting News: East Village Farmers’ Market Coming Soon!
We’re thrilled to announce that a new East Village Farmers’ Market is on the way! While the official launch date is still to be announced, we’re gearing up to bring fresh, locally-sourced produce and community energy to downtown San Diego.
Stay tuned for launch details and updates—fresh food is coming your way soon!
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| Explore Our Amazing Vendors!
We are proud to feature a diverse selection of talented vendors offering a wide range of products and services. Whether you’re looking for unique handmade items, delicious treats, or one-of-a-kind experiences, our marketplace has something for everyone. |
| | JOIN US FOR KEMETIC YOGA SESSIONS! |
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| Join us for our Kemetic Yoga Sessions!
Kemetic Yoga is an ancient yoga practice originating from the land of Kemet—a name given to Egypt by its ancient indigenous inhabitants. The practice connects breath and slow movement, guiding the body through poses inspired by the ancient illustrations of the characteristics and qualities of the Oneness. It’s a ritual practice, moving energy through the body to connect with our higher selves and our ancestors.
Our Kemetic Yoga sessions use our Whiteness to Oneness™ and KOS-Melanin-ology™ curricula at their foundation. We work to dismantle structural inequality and foster constructive dialogue around Blackness.
We also welcome instructors to share their practice, so join if you'd like to offer volunteer yoga sessions during our market. Sessions are $10 donations and can be purchased below.
These yoga sessions occur at each farmer’s market! |
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| | | Healthy Habits, Wealthy Minds: Tips for Student Wellness By: Jhalla Edrisi, Publishing/ Editorial Intern This month marks the start of a new school year for many of us, and with it comes the perfect time to talk about the importance of healthy habits—especially when you're focused on growing your wealth of knowledge. As students, we put a lot of energy into learning, testing our skills, and pushing ourselves to succeed. That’s why it’s vital to have reliable ways to fuel your brain and stay energized. Personally, I’ve found that having something fresh and crunchy nearby helps keep me motivated and focused during study sessions. Pickles, in particular, are my go-to snack—the classic crunch and sour kick give me the boost I need to power through long nights of studying and avoid drowning myself in energy drinks. Once school starts, it can be harder to stay active. Between classes, homework, and late-night reading, it’s easy to end up glued to your seat. But there are plenty of small ways to get movement in throughout the day. One of my favorites is pairing quick workouts with study time—holding a squat while reviewing flashcards or reciting definitions. It might sound intense, but it works for me! That said, movement doesn’t have to be intense to be effective. Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking farther away from your destination, or even putting dishes away one at a time—anything to break up the stillness and keep your body engaged. With your blood flowing, you may find it focus and remember key details for your classes. As the school year begins, remember: taking care of your body helps your mind thrive. Healthy habits are a key part of academic success—and long-term wellness. We ASCENDtials are wishing you a great and successful school year! |
| | | Want to Join Us as a Farmer?
We’re always looking for new farmers. Local farmers are the backbone of our community, and we want to provide a thriving space for them to sell their fresh, high-quality produce. We can assist community members obtain certification and start at our farmers market. Learn more, fill out the sign-up form below and become part our marketplace today! |
| | Want to Join Us as a Vendor?
We’re always looking for new vendors to bring fresh ideas and exciting products to our community. If you’d like to showcase your goods or services, fill our the sign-up sheet below and become part our marketplace today! |
| | Want to Join Us as a Volunteer?
Are you interested in volunteering at an amazing local farmers’ market? If so, you’re in the right place! We’re on the hunt for folks wanting to help our vendors, elders, and customers from event set-up to videography, so fill out the form below if you’re interested. |
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| Join Us for Our Monthly Food, Clothing & Plant Swap!
Every second Friday, ASCENDtials hosts a free food distribution in San Diego—offering fresh produce, healthy meals, and essential resources to support our neighbors.
Alongside food, we host a clothing and plant swap—bring gently used clothes or plant cuttings to give, trade, and connect with your community.
No registration needed. Rain or shine. Walk up or drive through.
Show up, share love, and help build a stronger, more sustainable community.
Click here to register! |
| | Join the ASCENDtials Team! |
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| Working with ASCENDtials is an excellent opportunity for candidates to gain extensive experience in different roles and obtain letters of appreciation or references. ASCENDtials is run by volunteers, so please view our programs to see where you can plug in.
There’s something for everyone! If you are seeking impactful experience and want to learn principles that protect and preserve the health of your community and yourself, work with us. Check out our many opportunities using the link below: |
| | | Dalal Harajli Business Development Intern |
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| Thank you for all of the amazing work you do Dalal! |
| | Community Partnerships in our Programming |
| Our Environmental Programs
At ASCENDtials, we’re committed to a cleaner, greener future. Our highway and beach cleanups help protect local ecosystems, reduce pollution, and promote safety—covering nine adopted highways and two beloved beaches: Black’s Beach and Silver Strand.
Through our Garden Project, we empower families to grow their own pesticide-free produce while learning sustainable gardening practices that support both health and the environment. |
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| Volunteer in our Community Garden! Do you want access to fresh, pesticide-free fruits, vegetables, and herbs, or land to grow them? You can get started right away by joining the ASCENDtials Garden Project. Our Garden Project is a great starting point for those who want to learn more about gardening and seasonal produce. Our garden, in Bonita’s Sweetwater Summit Park, is more than a food source. It’s a vibrant space for learning, connection, and caring for the environment. The garden is open daily. |
| | | BEACH AND HIGHWAY CLEANUPS |
| | | Join Us in Caring for Our Highways and Coastlines
At ASCENDtials, we believe protecting our environment means caring for both our roads and our beaches. Whether it’s a stretch of highway or a stretch of sand, your support helps create a cleaner, safer, and more beautiful San Diego.
Highway Cleanups
We’ve adopted several sections of San Diego highways—including Highway 5 South, Highway 15 North, Highway 94 East and West, and Coronado Route 75 North and South. Join us for a weekend cleanup and help us maintain the roads that connect our communities. Safety gear, trash grabbers, and bags are all provided.
👉 Our next highway cleanup will be at Coronado Route 75 on August 17th!
Beach Cleanups
Through our Climate Cares initiative, we host monthly beach cleanups at Black’s Beach (1st Sundays) and Silver Strand Beach (2nd Sundays) at 10:15 AM. These events are open to individuals, groups, and organizations looking to make a direct impact on marine life and shoreline health.
👉 Our next beach cleanup will be at Black’s Beach on August 3rd!
Every participant receives a letter of appreciation—and leaves with a sense of accomplishment and good vibes that last all day.
Come make a difference with us! |
| Find all our highway cleanups, as well as other ASCENDtials events, on our Eventbrite, linked below. |
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| All information about July constellations comes from the wonderful MoonConections. |
| | | ASCENDtials is working hard to uplift BIPOC communities in Southern California through workshops, programs, and events that ignite real change in spaces that are not inclusive towards BIPOC people. ASCENDtials also offers many ways to cultivate a life of reciprocity—where saving yourself is inseparable from saving your community and the planet, and vice versa. This begins with shifting our mindset to prioritize living a truthful, interconnected life. Please consider donating today to support our mission. Not only will your generosity truly make a difference in the lives of others, it is an actionable step towards pursuing a life oriented towards reciprocity and justice, for yourself, for your community, and for your planet. |
| | Purchase our Kemetic Yoga Cards! |
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| If you share ASCENDtials' principles and want to show your support, make a tax-deductible gift by clicking on the button below. Donations can be made yearly, monthly, or as a one-time contribution. Any amount will be greatly appreciated. |
| | | | About ASCENDtials
Thank you for your help, ASCENDtials enhances critical consciousness by offering intelligent, all-encompassing educational tools, materials, and training courses that are preventative, prepare, inculcate, and reinforce a greater sense of self and community, a Oneness that increases capacity, and environmental care.
This newsletter is a collaborative effort by ASCENDtials' volunteers and interns. Assembled by the Publishing team. Thank you to all our contributors!
Nonprofit 501(c)(3)
Tax ID:47-2451577 |
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