Press Kit
Mission Shorthand
Southern Oregon Climate Action Now (SOCAN) is a grassroots organization promoting awareness of climate science and advocating for actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We collaborate with individuals, communities, and institutions—locally and beyond—to drive climate solutions that also address social and environmental justice.
SOCAN FAQ
We seek a reduction in the global atmospheric greenhouse gas concentration to 350 parts per million Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e).
What is Climate in the Classroom?
SOCAN works directly with educators to strengthen climate science education. We offer curriculum resources, support for integrating climate content, and in-classroom workshops led by trained team members. We also co-teach a university-level course—Living with Climate Change in the Rogue Valley—in partnership with Southern Oregon University.
What kinds of Workshops & Presentations does SOCAN offer?
We host accessible, science-informed public workshops for adults on key climate topics—from wildfire smoke to energy resilience. These events are free or low-cost, grounded in the latest research, and designed to help the public understand and act on climate issues.
What happens at SOCAN’s General Meetings?
Our monthly general meetings are open to the public and feature guest experts sharing insights on everything from local water systems to national energy policy. These sessions are educational, dialogue-based, and a core part of how we build climate literacy in Southern Oregon.
What is ‘Sustaining Climate Activists’?
It’s a support group for climate activists facing burnout, anxiety, or grief. We provide a space to process the emotional toll of this work—because building a livable future shouldn’t mean sacrificing your mental health.
How does SOCAN approach Community Collaboration?
We work directly with partner organizations across sectors impacted by climate change—land conservation, forestry, water management, waste systems, and more. Our role is to support, connect, and amplify efforts already happening throughout the region.
What is the Science Advisory Panel?
Currently in development, this panel will bring together local experts to provide science-based input on climate issues. From ecosystem impact assessments to policy recommendations, the goal is to embed local knowledge into high-level decision-making.
What are SOCAN’s Climate Action Teams?
We currently operate four Climate Action Teams across Jackson and Curry counties. These being Ashland – ACAT, Brookings – CCAT, Medford – MCAT, and Talent – TCAT. These teams work directly within their communities to address local climate priorities—collaborating with city officials, tracking policy developments, and activating grassroots support.
What does the Policy & Programs Team do?
This team partners with other regional organizations to engage on forest and wildfire issues. Our focus is on advancing climate-resilient policy with agencies like the Oregon Department of Forestry, ensuring that land management reflects both science and community values.
What is the Green Business Program?
Still in development, this program aims to spotlight and support local businesses that are stepping up on sustainability. Our goal: recognize what’s already working, create visibility for climate-aligned practices, and help build a local economy that matches our environmental priorities.
2016:
May: PRESS-RELEASE-Health-Program
2017:
April PRESS RELEASE – KBO Alexander
2018:
2019:
2020:
2021:
2022:
2023:
2024:
2025:
