Carlos Christiani, director of corporate and government affairs at the Fleet Science Center in San Diego, highlighted the center's significant impact on community development during a recent government meeting. The Fleet Science Center, which serves 99 residential zip codes across San Diego County, partners with over 300 schools and engages more than 400,000 people annually.

Christian emphasized the importance of inspiration in education, referencing a recent article by CEO Steve Snyder that discussed the role of documentaries in fostering social and economic prosperity. The center employs trained artists in various programs, including the "Art for Planetary Health" initiative, funded by the Pribis Foundation.

A key achievement mentioned was the successful acquisition of a $3.7 million grant from the National Science Foundation for a project aimed at building community capacity in Southeastern San Diego. This initiative involved seven partners, including the World Beat Center and the University of San Diego, and focused on empowering underrepresented communities.

The project sought to address critical questions about community development and cultural capital, aiming to reclaim ownership and foster a sense of belonging among residents. By centering the voices of local communities, the Fleet Science Center is committed to creating sustainable practices that benefit historically marginalized populations.