It takes a village to create lasting change — and it takes the right resources, relationships, collective effort, and thoughtful and intentional organization to turn community priorities into action. Through grassroots organizing and partnership-building, Vecinos del Eastside has brought the community together to advocate for a stronger, more invested Eastside.

SBCAN celebrates a major milestone alongside Vecinos del Eastside members, whose collective advocacy helped elevate Eastside priorities and secure $1 million in funding for the Eastside in June of 2026. 

Additional progress made through the network includes:

• Building a core group of engaged community members who meet weekly, strengthen relationships, and help bring new voices into the network.
• Advocating for neighborhood improvements by helping secure deep cleaning efforts under the pedestrian bridges connecting Cabrillo Boulevard and Milpas Street.
• Building relationships with local elected officials to elevate Eastside priorities and strengthen community representation.
• Developing ideas and recommendations that can inform future city efforts and advance community-centered solutions.
• Connecting the Milpas Eastside Business Association with the South Coast Chamber of Commerce to strengthen support and collaboration for local businesses.
• Bringing Eastside-specific issues and priorities to two SBCAN Roundtables to create space for broader community dialogue and awareness.