On Tuesday, July 8, the Penny Lane Centers leadership team traded in meetings for movement during a meaningful Day of Service at Santa Monica Beach. Partnering with Heal the Bay, we came together just north of the Santa Monica Pier to help preserve one of our community’s most treasured natural spaces.
It was a beautiful sunny day at the beach—the breeze blew gently, the water refreshed, and the energy was high. We were greeted by Felipe and Pedro from Heal the Bay’s Beach Programs Team, who kicked things off with an icebreaker to get us warmed up and connected. Then, armed with buckets, gloves, and trusty “grabby things,” we broke into teams and set off to tackle the trash.
And let’s just say—when you add a little competition, motivation rises with the tide. The challenge? Collect as much debris as possible. Within no time, our buckets were brimming with plastics, soaked paper, abandoned sandals, wet socks, bottles, and—shockingly—over 232 cigarette butts. In all, our group collected more than 54 pounds of debris.
But the day didn’t end there.
Following the clean-up, we kept the momentum going with a playful relay race, this time forming new teams for even more camaraderie. There was sandcastle building, hula hooping, and even digging for buried treasure. Whether cleaning the beach or racing through the sand, one thing was clear: collaboration and team spirit were at the heart of everything we did.
What was evident on the sand is also true in our offices—when we work together, team up with others, and keep our eyes on a shared purpose, we can accomplish great things.
A special thank you goes out to Graciela Canela and Erica Hernandez for delivering lunch to the beach. We shared those meals not only with each other but also with Felipe and Pedro from Heal the Bay, our lifeguard, and several individuals in need. Because at Penny Lane, when we see a need—we respond. Whether it’s through social services, acts of kindness, or simply sharing a meal, we show up.
For over 55 years, Penny Lane has been serving our community—but on this special day, we served in a different way. We stepped into the community not only to care for our neighbors, but to care for our beaches and the marine life that calls them home.
It was a Day of Service that will be remembered—not just for the sunshine and sand—but for the reminder of the impact we all have when we band together.
Together, we rise with the tide!
“Not only did you help restore the shoreline, but you also contributed valuable data to scientific research that helps drive sustainable policies and behavioral change. You should all be so proud!" — Felipe, Heal the Bay
See you next year!
Check out some more photos below!
