Annabelle, a Cool Davis intern and UC Davis Community and Regional Development major with a focus on organization and management, brings together her classroom learning and real-world experience in a thoughtful and grounded way. She’s spent years working in the service industry, currently at a Caribbean restaurant in Sacramento, and sees a clear connection between serving people and building stronger, more equitable communities. Her perspective on sustainability has grown during her time at Cool Davis, especially as she’s come to recognize how everyday actions—many of which her family practiced growing up—can have a lasting impact. For Annabelle, it’s not just about big changes, but about helping others see how small, realistic steps can make a real difference.

 

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

Hi!  I am a Community and Regional Development (CRD) major with a focus on organization and management. Throughout my college career I have researched different marginalized groups and how Community Development principles could bring communities together to combat injustices. In addition to my school work and internship here at Cool Davis I work at a Caribbean bar and restaurant in Sacramento. I have spent all of my time in the workforce in the service industry so when I discovered CRD it felt like I was staying within the industry I love but being able to provide a different kind of service to my community! I enjoy reading, playing music, and spending time with my friends and family.

 

What is your sustainability story?

Before joining Cool Davis I initially thought of sustainability as something that was only achievable through big actions. Interning here has taught me that sustainability can be big or small and it’s the effort that counts. Things like using reusable bags and water bottles were things I already did that I thought of as common sense were sustainable. Looking back I realize that many of the things my family did growing up were sustainable actions even if they were just meant to save money. 

 

How do you get around town? 

I commute from Downtown Sacramento! I inherited my moms Prius Hybrid and I love it. I would absolutely buy another one and have been considering purchasing a plug in hybrid when the time comes. When I leave for Davis I make sure to pack my electric scooter to make getting around campus and downtown easier. It makes getting from Campus to the Cool Davis office much easier and more sustainable than if I were to drive that short distance. I also rarely use my car when traveling around Downtown Sacramento and it is a great alternative to a car or bus.

 

What are your future goals and how do you see sustainability playing a role?

My future holds many unknowns at the moment but I do know that the environmental state of our planet is in danger and it will impact me and my family throughout my life. I know that my future will include sustainable practices and as I grow in my career I will make some of the sustainability choices that I haven’t been able to yet like buying an EV vehicle or installing solar panels if I own a home. I hope to take the lessons I have learned from Cool Davis and not only practice them myself but inform family and friends of what they could be doing to make sustainable choices. 

 

Why did you want to intern with Cool Davis? What have you enjoyed most in your time with Cool Davis so far?

I was inspired to intern with Cool Davis after going through their web page and seeing all the programs and initiatives they take to help Davis be “cool!” So far I have enjoyed doing community outreach at the farmers market in Downtown Davis on Saturday mornings. It gives me the chance to connect with all different kinds of people who live in Davis. My favorite is speaking with fellow students who feel stuck and unable to make any sustainable choices in their lives because they rent or don’t have the financial means to do so. I am able to tell them the small but important ways they can make a difference.

 

How do you approach making environmentally conscious decisions when it comes to eating, commuting, shopping, etc?

I try my hardest to make environmentally conscious decisions when it comes to shopping. I am finding most of my clothing at the thrift store. Any other objects I want to buy I try to buy second hand. Facebook marketplace has been where I have gotten most of my furniture in my home and even my new bass guitar. I do my best to be conscious in my shopping because when it comes to commuting and eating, my options are more limited. 

 

What knowledge have you gained in your time so far with Cool Davis?

So far I have learned great information about sustainability as well as the way non-profit organizations operate. It has been great first hand experience in some of the concepts taught in my Community and Regional Development courses. This internship has given me a taste of the field I have considered entering after graduation and I am thankful for the opportunity to learn and grow from this experience. 

 

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