ABF in Action: Emily Blanchard, Education Coordinator
ABF in Action is our monthly spotlight series highlighting the people who bring Anza-Borrego Foundation’s mission to life. Each month, we introduce you to a member of our dedicated team—the people working behind the scenes (and out in the desert!) to protect the Park, inspire visitors, and connect our community to California’s largest state park.
This month, we’re featuring Emily Blanchard, Education Coordinator, whose behind-the-scenes coordination makes it possible for thousands of people each year to experience, learn from, and fall in love with Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. From logistics to lived experiences, Emily helps turn curiosity into connection—and connection into conservation.
What does your role as Education Coordinator involve day-to-day?
Everyday I’m doing at least 50 different things – answering emails & questions, calling people back, checking registration numbers for our events, sending details and follow up emails, prepping for programs, planning new programs, and more!
What do you enjoy most about working directly with the public?
I really enjoy meeting people in person and seeing them enjoy an event.
Can you share a moment where you saw someone’s perspective change during a program?
I think people are often amazed at how large our Park is – over 650,000 acres! In fact, it’s the second largest state park in the country. That blows people away.
How do you make programs accessible and welcoming to new visitors?
We try to offer scholarships for our programs to increase access, and also try to meet people where they are – some people are new to Anza-Borrego, while others have been coming here their whole lives. Whether it’s their first time or their thirtieth time, we welcome them and try to create an enjoyable experience.
How do you see your work fitting into ABF’s broader mission?
Connecting people to the Park through our education programs can create new connections or deepen people’s appreciation of and support for the Park. All visitors are potential stewards of the Park and an important part of its conservation.
What’s been your proudest moment at ABF so far?
I’m proud of managing over 120 education programs each year. It’s an incredible amount of coordination and planning and each program is an accomplishment in itself. It’s satisfying to see people enjoy a program after all of the hard work.
What inspires you to keep doing this work?
My biggest passion is conservation, especially wildlife conservation. I love when we invite guest experts that share their knowledge about how to better coexist with the Park and all its creatures and ultimately support their conservation.
If you could add a new program tomorrow, what would it be?
We try to offer a myriad of programs across different spectrums – from watercolor painting and photography workshops to astronomy programs, hikes, and guided driving tours. As an artist myself, I would probably continue to offer more art-based programs, or continue to bring in wildlife experts that can discuss human-wildlife coexistence and wildlife connectivity. I also really appreciate our partnerships with local Native and Indigenous communities and would love to continue offering programs about the incredible cultural heritage of the Park and its surrounding region.
What’s your favorite desert plant, animal, or time of year?
I have many favorite desert animals, but one of them is the coyote – I love coming to the desert and hearing them howl. It’s music to my ears.
Why does protecting Anza-Borrego matter to you personally?
I love nature and I love the peacefulness and quiet of the desert – it’s a rejuvenating reset after living in a city. I hope everyone can get to appreciate what a treasure that is.
