About Sonoma CAN

Transforming Lives In Sonoma County

A woman with short blonde hair, wearing a light pink blazer, glasses, and a watch, is holding a microphone and a sheet of paper while hugging an older woman with short brown hair in a white shirt. They are outside a building, smiling warmly.

At the heart of our mission is a commitment to building a brighter future for individuals and families in our community. Sonoma CAN (Community Action Network) is dedicated to reducing poverty and enhancing the quality of life through innovative programs and services that empower those in need.

Three people stand behind a table with "Sonoma CAN Community Action Network" on the front. The table is outdoors on grass under a tree, displaying pamphlets and items. A small gathering is visible in the background with tents and people.

Our Vision

We see Sonoma County transformed into an empowered community of thriving families where every child is raised with joy, justice, and connection.

Our Mission

Sonoma CAN is a catalyst of equitable transformation, aligning partners and resources to implement values-based, data-driven, community-led solutions that help families reach their full potential.

Our Impact

For over 55 years, Sonoma CAN has been a cornerstone of support and empowerment in Sonoma County. Through the dedication of our team and the generosity of our supporters, we have made a significant impact on countless lives. Our work is guided by a deep respect for the dignity of every individual and a steadfast belief in their potential.

Two adults, a woman and a man, push a child on a swing in a playground. The child is smiling and wearing a shirt with a cartoon character. Trees and playground equipment are visible in the background.

What We Do

Our range of programs is designed to serve the Whole Family, meeting the needs of our community members:

    • Social Capital: Support for families and communities in crisis, including food, shelter, and financial aid.
    • Early Childhood Education: Helping our kids start strong and build towards success in school and life.
    • Employment Pathways: Programs that enhance skills, offer job training, and provide educational support to improve employment prospects.
    • Health and Mental Wellness: Access to health services, mental health support, and wellness initiatives to promote overall well-being.
    • Economic Justice: Initiatives that build equity by investing in community cohesion, local development, and active participation.

Our Story

A historical outdoor gathering with a large group of men in suits. A person is seated at a small desk in front of the crowd, signing a document. A presidential podium is nearby, and the event takes place in front of a building with columns.
1967

With the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson created what has grown to over 1,000 Community Action Agencies across the nation – together Helping People, Changing Lives.

Two children are running outside. The child in the foreground, wearing a red sweater with mouse ears, is smiling widely. The child in the background, dressed in dark clothing, is also running and appears to be laughing. They are near a playground area with trees.
2010

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Two children are running outside. The child in the foreground, wearing a red sweater with mouse ears, is smiling widely. The child in the background, dressed in dark clothing, is also running and appears to be laughing. They are near a playground area with trees.
2024

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Join Us

Two women, both with glasses, are standing side by side and smiling at the camera. One is wearing a black jacket and holding a piece of paper; the other is in a denim jacket. They appear to be in a well-lit room with tables and chairs in the background.

Careers

Join us in serving our community and advancing our mission. 

Two people standing inside a bright, indoor space. The person on the left, wearing a green vest over a blue shirt, is looking at a paper with concentration. The person on the right, with blue hair in braids, is smiling and holding a paper and pencil.

Our Team

We’re a dedicated group committed to living out our values every day.