Meet Trace Club | Nonprofit Organization

We had the good fortune of connecting with Trace Club and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Trace, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Trace Club was founded on the core idea that each individual and their actions leaves a mark on the world around them. Socially, this means the way we speak to and interact with others, as well as how we care for our communal spaces such as parks, recreational areas, and local neighborhoods. Environmentally, the way we treat the Earth has lasting impacts felt long after we’re gone, so we strive to educate and inspire our community members and plant ‘seeds’ of conscious responsibility and mindfulness that will have a truly positive impact on the world.

Trace Club is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and interconnectedness among its members. We believe that by promoting positive communication and interactions, we contribute to the creation of a more compassionate and supportive society. Our initiatives include organizing community events, workshops, and discussion forums that encourage open dialogue on topics such as empathy, inclusivity, and active listening.

In addition to interpersonal relationships, Trace Club is deeply committed to the well-being of communal spaces. Through organized clean-up drives, beautification projects, and maintenance efforts, we actively work to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of parks, recreational areas, and local neighborhoods. We believe that by taking collective responsibility for our shared spaces, we not only create a more pleasant environment for current residents but also leave a legacy for future generations.

On the environmental front, Trace Club recognizes the urgent need for sustainable practices to safeguard our planet. We conduct educational programs and workshops that focus on eco-friendly living, waste reduction, and conservation. By instilling a sense of environmental responsibility in our community, we aspire to create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our immediate reach. Through these efforts, we aim to contribute to a global movement towards a more sustainable and ecologically conscious world.

Moreover, Trace Club is actively engaged in initiatives that empower individuals to make informed choices in their daily lives. We promote practices such as reducing single-use plastic, adopting renewable energy sources, and supporting local and sustainable businesses. By equipping our community members with the knowledge and tools needed to make environmentally conscious decisions, we believe we can collectively make a significant impact on the health of our planet.

In summary, Trace Club’s social impact extends beyond interpersonal relationships and community spaces to encompass a holistic approach that addresses environmental sustainability and conscious living. Through education, collaboration, and empowerment, we aim to leave a positive and enduring mark on the community and the world at large.

What should our readers know about your business?
Trace Club stands out in the non-profit landscape by not only advocating for change but actively engaging individuals in meaningful ways. What sets us apart is our hands-on approach to creating a connection between people and the environment, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement from the grassroots level. Our emphasis on tangible experiences and educational outings sets us apart from other organizations, providing participants with a unique opportunity to understand the impact of their actions on the earth and the communities they are part of.

Our journey to where we are today has been both challenging and rewarding. As a new startup, especially within the non-profit sector, gaining traction and building a supportive community has been a significant hurdle. However, our passion for the mission and the belief in the positive change we can effectuate have fueled our determination to overcome these challenges. We view every obstacle as an opportunity for growth and improvement, pushing us to continuously refine our strategies and enhance our impact.

The road to success has not been easy, but it has been a transformative journey. One of the key lessons we’ve learned is the importance of adaptability. In the dynamic landscape of community engagement and environmental advocacy, being open to adjusting our approach based on feedback and evolving circumstances has been crucial. We’ve also learned the power of collaboration—forging partnerships with like-minded organizations and individuals has allowed us to amplify our reach and impact.
What we are most proud of is the community we are building. Seeing individuals from diverse backgrounds come together under the Trace Club banner, actively participating in initiatives, and taking ownership of their impact on the environment is incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about what Trace Club does, but about the collective effort and enthusiasm of our community members.

We want the world to know that Trace Club is more than just a non-profit; it’s a movement. It’s a call to action for everyone to be part of something bigger, to contribute to a positive change in the world. Our story is one of resilience, passion, and the unwavering belief that every individual has the power to make a difference. We invite the world to join us on this journey, to connect with the earth, build stronger communities, and leave a lasting trace of positive impact for generations to come.

Trace Club’s mission isn’t just to appeal to people to make a difference, we want to get everyone involved from the ground up (no pun intended). We’re proud to provide hands-on experiences and educational outings that make participants feel connected to the earth and the community members around them. We’re still a new start-up, and a nonprofit at that, so the hurdles are bigger for us to gain traction. Thankfully we aren’t ones to shy away from challenges and see the work we are doing as a reward in itself.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Absolutely, let’s expand on the LA experience and provide a detailed itinerary for a week-long trip, incorporating the diverse range of outdoor activities, dining options, and unique spots that make the city so vibrant:

Day 1 – Outdoor Adventure:
Start the week with an exhilarating outdoor adventure. Take your friend to Stoney Point Park, a renowned spot for outdoor climbing enthusiasts. Explore the rugged terrain and stunning rock formations that make this park a haven for climbers of all levels. For those seeking a different kind of climb, Malibu Creek State Park offers not only scenic trails but also opportunities for rock climbing amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Day 2 – Indoor Climbing and Arts District Exploration:
For a change of pace, head to one of LA’s diverse indoor climbing gyms, such as Stronghold Climbing Gym or Cliffs of Id. These gyms cater to climbers of varying skill levels and provide a fantastic indoor climbing experience. After a thrilling day of climbing, unwind at Propaganda Wine Bar in the Arts District. This cozy spot offers a curated selection of wines and a relaxed ambiance, making it an ideal place to recap the day’s adventures.

Day 3 – Culinary Delights: Indulge in LA’s rich culinary scene. Start your day with a visit to Monty’s for mouthwatering plant-based burgers that will satisfy any craving. In the evening, explore the Arts District further and discover unique vegan options at local eateries like Sage Plant Based Bistro. For craft beer enthusiasts, cap off the night at one of the city’s numerous breweries, like Arts District Brewery, known for its exceptional IPAs.

Day 4 – Outdoor Gear Shopping:
For those keen on outdoor gear and activities, a visit to Hatchet Supply Co in the Arts District is a must. This specialty store not only offers a wide range of high-quality outdoor gear but also serves as a hub for adventure enthusiasts looking to gear up for their next exploration. Spend the day exploring the Arts District’s vibrant street art and eclectic shops.

Day 5 – Community Engagement:
Visit Community Made, a unique space dedicated to fostering creativity, collaboration, and community building. Learn about their initiatives and connect with like-minded individuals passionate about making a positive impact. Engage in workshops or events that align with Trace Club’s mission of environmental responsibility and community involvement.

Day 6 – Nature Retreat:
Escape the city buzz for a day at Runyon Canyon, a popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of Los Angeles. Explore the diverse trails and recharge amidst nature. In the evening, head to a local vegan hotspot like Crossroads Kitchen for a fine dining experience featuring innovative plant-based dishes.

Day 7 – Coastal Relaxation:
Wrap up the week with a trip to the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea while exploring the pier’s attractions. For a memorable farewell dinner, dine at the Malibu Farm Pier Cafe, offering a farm-to-table experience with a stunning ocean backdrop.

This itinerary provides a well-rounded experience, combining outdoor adventures, culinary delights, community engagement, and exploration of LA’s unique spots, catering to diverse interests and preferences.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Certainly! Let’s elaborate on the individuals, groups, and organizations that have played a crucial role in Trace Club’s journey:

First and foremost, our shoutout goes to Keep Nature Wild. Their unwavering support and collaboration have been instrumental in shaping Trace Club’s initiatives. From participating in our events to generously supporting our park cleanups, Keep Nature Wild has been a true partner in our shared mission of environmental stewardship. Their commitment to preserving nature aligns seamlessly with our values, and we’re grateful for the inspiration and camaraderie they bring to the table.

Parks Project has also been a key ally in our journey. Through their dedication to elevating local park cleanups to a national scale, we found a kindred spirit. We’ve not only drawn inspiration from their impactful work but have also directly collaborated with Parks Project. Their generous donation of cleaning kits has empowered us to make a tangible difference in our local parks. Our shared vision of making a positive impact on a larger scale fuels our collective efforts.

Hatchet Supply Company deserves a special mention for being a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts. Drawing inspiration from their commitment to providing high-quality outdoor gear, we’ve been able to enhance our activities and adventures. Their support goes beyond supplying gear; it’s a testament to the tight-knit community that exists among those who are passionate about outdoor exploration.
A heartfelt thanks goes out to the Friends of Griffith Park, a local non-profit that has allowed us to adopt and care for a native species garden. Their collaboration has been essential in the preservation and maintenance of this precious green space, and we appreciate their ongoing support in our environmental endeavors.

The Friends of Elysian, another local non-profit, has played a pivotal role in our “Parks Are Home Tour” cleanup series. Their volunteers joined us in making a positive impact on Elysian, offering valuable insights into its history during our cleanups. Their dedication to community engagement and environmental conservation mirrors our own, and we’re grateful for the shared commitment to making our parks better places for all.

Sama Wellness holds a special place in our journey, as good friends and partners in our wellness events. From journaling sessions to various forms of yoga, sound baths, and meditation, our collaborative events at the Elysian School Garden have brought a holistic approach to well-being. The garden, serves as a testament to the transformative power of community collaboration in education and environmental consciousness.

In summary, the success of Trace Club is intricately woven with the support, mentorship, and collaboration of Keep Nature Wild, Parks Project, Hatchet Supply Company, Friends of Griffith Park, Friends of Elysian, and Sama Wellness. Together, we are working towards a more sustainable and interconnected future, leaving a positive trace on the environment and the communities we serve

Website: https://www.thetraceclub.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trace.club/

Image Credits
Jeremy Aquino, Blake Wright, Phillip Gadrow, Monica Henriquez, Carly Hildebrant