| | Dream, Believe, ASCEND:
ASCENDtials' World of Opportunities |
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July Theme:
Stars Align for You |
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| Note from the Director
By Mika Marzette
July is bursting with opportunities to soak in the season’s best weather and embrace outdoor adventures. At ASCENDtials, we honor the wisdom of our ancestors by expressing gratitude and giving back. This month, we're committed to aligning our values with action—through beach and highway cleanups, revitalizing our bodies with breath-focused activities, and nurturing our garden to keep the soil thriving and weeds at bay.
There’s so much to do, and time seems to fly—but our dedication to the work keeps us grounded. It’s deeply rewarding to look back and witness our focus in full bloom.
Join us for the launch of our monthly food distribution in City Heights, happening on the second Friday of every month. Come flow with us at our Kemetic yoga sessions with the Park Takeover crew, or catch us at our weekly farmers' markets where community and culture meet.
We can’t wait to connect—see you soon. |
| | | | It’s July and we’ve got a full month of connection, community care, and summer fun at ASCENDtials!
Join us for our regular beach and highway cleanups happening throughout the month. These are great opportunities to support environmental justice while getting outside and giving back. If you're looking to get involved, we’d love to have you—just reach out or stop by!
We're also thrilled to share that our ASCENDKemet Certified Farmers’ Markets continue to grow! In addition to our two current markets, we’re launching another location on July 26! Expect fresh produce, locally made goods, and a warm community vibe. Check below for details on all three locations.
And that’s not all—expect another market coming soon to East Village! We’re excited to expand downtown and bring fresh, affordable produce and holistic goods to even more of San Diego. The official launch date for East Village will be announced soon, so stay tuned and follow us for updates!
On July 25, we’re hosting a special Children’s Day Park Takeover—a joyful day of face painting, storytelling, rock painting, and healthy snacks! Bring the kids, bring your friends, and see the flyer below for full event details.
Don't miss our Free Food Distribution on July 11. We're committed to promoting food security, community support, and providing healthy meals to nourish our neighbors. Whether you're walking up or driving through, all are welcome—no registration required, rain or shine. With your help, we’re fighting hunger, promoting equity and access, and building a more resilient community. It’s a perfect volunteer opportunity if you want to support your community and make a difference in a hands-on way.
Whether you're here for fresh food, wellness, environmental care, or family-friendly fun, there’s a place for you at ASCENDtials this July. Keep scrolling for flyers and full event details—we can't wait to see you out there! |
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| Aligning With Yourself By: Jhalla Edrisi, Publishing/Editorial Intern With the year halfway behind us and December approaching quickly, July offers a powerful opportunity to pause, realign, and move forward with intention. It's a moment to step back from the noise of the world, reconnect with yourself, and reflect on where you're headed. Time to collect your thoughts and your feelings—outside of what's happening in the world at large—and center yourself. So much has occurred this past year, think back to your intentions from the start of 2025. Are you where you wanted to be? If not, now is the perfect time to gently recalibrate and ASCENDtials will be right beside you. Here are some things you can do to adjust yourself alignment. Unplug and Reconnect Take a moment to unplug in the quiet of night amongst the stars or in the great outdoors surrounded by nature or inside in the comfort of your own room. The hustle and bustle of daily life, on top of constant social media notifications, rarely allows us to sit with our thoughts. Take a small chance to step away and breathe. Center yourself. Reflect on the past six months. Where have you been? Where are you now? Where do you want to be? Use this time to think honestly about your goals and desires—without the pressure of others’ expectations. Give yourself permission to dream freely. After even a few quiet moments, you may find a clearer sense of direction and renewed motivation. Simple But Effective Journaling is another great way to find your center and align yourself with your wants and needs. Your journal doesn’t need to be anything fancy—a simple collection of pages where you can keep track of your thoughts and goals is all you need. Writing things down helps bring your internal landscape into focus. Journaling offers a space to reflect, course-correct, and stay accountable to yourself. It doesn't need to be polished—just honest. To start, write down the things that you have already managed to do this year. No matter what size, each accomplishment is progress towards your better self. When it comes time to write what you want to achieve, remember, every small victory is still a victory. Keeping many smaller goals while working towards a big one is the best way to keep yourself motivated. Watch those goals pile up as you make more progress is a thrill all its own. Writing things down will help to solidify your intentions as you climb the path to your future. We at ASCENDtials are also taking a moment—focusing on our alignment in the community and the path we travel alongside you. We are working to continue our efforts to strengthen and build the community with our farmers’ markets and beach clean-ups, along with our many other programs. We walk this path with you—learning, growing, and aligning ourselves more deeply with the values that drive us. And we want to thank every person who supports, volunteers, and shows up. Your presence helps keep this shared mission alive. |
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| | DON’T MISS OUT!!CLICK THE FLYER FOR MORE DETAILS |
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| City Heights and Marina District Farmers’ Market Growth
The City Heights Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday and the Marina District Farmers’ Market is held every Friday, and both continue to run smoothly. Our team is dedicated to bringing in quality vendors each week, with a strong focus on recruiting more local farmers to support the community. This effort helps ensure a variety of fresh, locally sourced options for residents, aligning with our mission to empower the community and promote sustainable practices. Join us as we transform each market day into a joyful summer celebration in San Diego, where fresh flavors and welcoming faces unite in perfect harmony. Shop for certified fresh produce at our ASCENDKemet Collective Certified Farmers’ Markets—because everyone deserves access to fresh, nutritious food every day!
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 July 26!
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our newest ASCENDKemet Certified Farmers’ Market—opening July 26 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 2–6 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.
Join us for the grand opening on July 26—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Help us spread the word!
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| 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.
This weekly market will reflect the vibrancy of East Village—featuring amazing local vendors, healthy food options, and a welcoming space for all.
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. |
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| | | | 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 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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| Join Us for Our Monthly Food, Clothing & Plant Swap!
Every second Friday of the month, ASCENDtials hosts a free food distribution event in San Diego—providing fresh produce, healthy meals, and accessible resources to help nourish our neighbors. It’s more than a giveaway—it’s about fighting hunger, offering dignified service, and building real community support.
Alongside food, we host a clothing and plant propagation swap! Bring gently used clothes or a plant cutting to share the love, reduce waste, and refresh your closet or garden. It’s a fun and sustainable way to make a difference and support your community.
All are welcome—rain or shine, no registration required. Whether you walk up or drive through, this is a powerful volunteer opportunity and a chance to be part of something bigger.
Join the movement. Serve with compassion. Build community resilience.
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: |
| | | Harsha Sartandel Business Development Volunteer |
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| Esra Turhan Graphic Design Volunteer |
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| Thank you for all of the amazing work you do Harsha and Esra! |
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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. |
| | | Community Partnerships in our Programming |
| | Our Environmental Programs
Highway and beach cleanups are crucial endeavors for maintaining a clean and healthy environment. And, join our Garden Project to grow fresh, healthy foods for you and your family.
Highway cleanups allow groups or individuals to take responsibility for cleaning specific stretches of highway. This helps improve roadside aesthetics and keep drivers safe. Through programs like Adopt-A-Highway, ASCENDtials has adopted nine highways of San Diego for the cleanup mission.
Beach cleanups function similarly, enabling groups to take care of designated areas of Black’s Beach and Silver Strand Beach. This protects marine life and enhances the beach experience for visitors, all the while preventing plastic pollution from entering the ocean.
The Garden Project promotes eco-friendly gardening methods that benefit both your produce and the environment. This initiative is a program that promotes sustainable gardening practices and the joys of connecting with nature. Through our Garden Project, we encourage families to cultivate their own pesticide-free fruits, vegetables, herbs, and plants. |
| | JULY BEACH AND HIGHWAY CLEANUPS |
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| Join us as we make waves for a cleaner, happier beach! By taking part in any Climate Cares Beach Cleanup event, you not only help our coastline and the amazing marine life that calls it home, but you also earn a heartfelt letter of appreciation for good vibes that last the entire day.
We are excited to offer individuals, groups, and organizations the opportunity to help clean Black's Beach, as well as our adopted beach on Coronado Island, Silver Strand Beach. Cleanups are held once a month to clean up litter and monitor for signs of damage. You will be making a direct impact to the health and beauty of our beaches, and helping to preserve them for future generations to enjoy.
Black’s Beach Cleanups occur on the first Sunday of every month at 10:15 a.m. and Silver Strand Beach Cleanups occur on the second Sunday of every month at 10:15 a.m.
Our next beach cleanup will be at Silver Strand Beach on July 13th! |
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| Join us as we care for the nature surrounding our highways! Join us for a weekend highway cleanup. ASCENDtials has adopted spots along Highway 5 South, Highway 15 North, Highway 94 East and West, and Coronado Route 75 North and South. Help us maintain our roads and ensure the safety of our drivers.
Safety equipment, trash grabbers, and bags are provided.
Our next highway cleanup will be at Coronado Route 75 on July 13th! |
| | Find all our highway cleanups, as well as other ASCENDtials events, on our Eventbrite, linked below. |
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| | | July is a month guided by the stars—when the skies are clear, the nights are warm, and the universe invites us to look up and realign. This is the best time of year to observe some of the most fascinating deep-sky objects, like the mesmerizing Cat’s Eye Nebula, glowing in the constellation Draco. Formed by the remnants of a dying star, this nebula reminds us of the beauty that comes with transformation and release.
In many traditions, the stars serve as ancient navigators—helping us find our way when the path feels uncertain. Just like constellations connect to form patterns in the sky, we too find meaning when we align with our values, our communities, and the natural rhythms of the Earth. Here at ASCENDtials, we reflect on the stars not just for their beauty, but for their timeless wisdom—encouraging personal growth, planetary care, and cosmic connection. As you gaze skyward this month, let the stars realign you with your highest intentions. |
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| | | 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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