Our Current Programs

The Grant Writing Workshop is a free, six-week in-person training series developed by Director Claudia G. Corchado of Cultiva Central Valley in partnership with United Way of Merced County. Designed to strengthen the grant-seeking capacity of local nonprofits and grassroots leaders, the program offers hands-on instruction in proposal writing, budgeting, and funder engagement. Each session builds practical skills through interactive exercises and real-time feedback. The series culminates in a funder roundtable, where participants apply their learning by engaging directly with grantmakers. Supported by local partners and funders, the workshop empowers community leaders to secure and manage funding that drives lasting impact across Merced County.

As part of our Open Schools, Healthy Communities initiative, we’re transforming school spaces into vibrant wellness hubs. Through partnerships with local schools and city agencies, we offer free Zumba classes in rural Merced County—bringing joyful, culturally inclusive fitness to youth, adults, and families.

Our goal is to reduce health disparities like obesity and diabetes by making physical activity accessible and fun. Classes are held twice weekly at five school sites, with a focus on Medi-Cal members and underserved communities. We also provide bilingual materials, childcare, and transportation support to remove barriers to participation.

The UC Merced Fair Housing Justice project—led by the HOPe Lab in partnership with Cultiva Central Valley and supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation—aims to advance housing equity across Merced County through community-driven storytelling, policy advocacy, and systems change.

At the heart of the project is the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), a coalition of residents, promotoras, and institutional partners working to elevate lived experiences and shape healthier housing outcomes. All with the goal of creating equitable housing policies for renters in Merced County.

In partnerships with the Consulado de Mexico, CVIIC and the UFW Foundation, Cultiva Central Valley is proud to offer free legal immigration consultations to support our local farmworker and immigrant communities. These workshops provide assistance with DACA renewals, naturalization applications, and other essential immigration services. (some government fees may still apply)