Turkeys & Turnout: Harvest Hopes and Casting Votes 🍗

Dear Friends and Neighbors, 

November is here — and with it comes one of the most important opportunities we share as Californians:  the chance to make our voices heard at the ballot box. Every election is a reminder that democracy thrives on collective action and participation. Whether you’ve already mailed in your ballot or plan to vote in person on November 4th, thank you for shaping the future of our state and our communities.

In the State Senate, my focus has remained on delivering results that matter. My priorities are informed by your stories, which have guided every bill I authored this session. That being said, I am honored to announce that the Governor officially signed a total of 13 of my bills this year: SB 30, SB 61, SB 400, SB 429, SB 551, SB 553, SB 597, SB 602, SB 653, SB 683, SB 693, SB 695, and SB 753. From promoting wildfire safety and expanding animal welfare, to instilling wage theft protections and reducing crime, these bills will continue to make Californians strong, safe, and secure. 

For more information and updates about my legislation this session, I urge you to watch my 2025 Virtual Legislative Update Town Hall, which I hosted on October 14th. I spoke to over 120 constituents about my work and their legislative priorities. Watch the town hall here!

My office also recently held our biggest event of the year, the 3rd Annual Picnic by the Lake: Multicultural Festival and Resource Fair, featuring dozens of resource booths, multicultural performances, free food, pumpkins, and more. Thank you to our sponsors, partners, resource booth participants, and performing groups for making this tremendous event possible. 

With Thanksgiving approaching, I am grateful for the countless people who work every day to make our neighborhoods stronger — from first responders and educators to small business owners and local volunteers. In the spirit of giving, I encourage you to stay engaged — in your community, your civic life, and with one another. Your dedication to positive change keeps California moving forward.

Finally, if you need any help navigating state services, accessing emergency resources, or participating in local events, please don’t hesitate to call my District Office at (408) 723-4154 or send an email to Senator.Cortese@sen.ca.gov. 

Wishing you all a meaningful Election Day and a season filled with gratitude!

With Appreciation, 

HERE IN DISTRICT 15

IMMERSING IN EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

Senator Cortese with Teach for America and Santee Elementary School faculty, students, and administrators.

Prioritizing educational excellence, Teach for America is leading the way in classroom innovation through its online tutoring fellowship program, Ignite. Ignite recruits, trains and partners emerging passionate education leaders with local school districts like Franklin-McKinley School District to tutor students online 3-4 hours a week. The results show improved grade outcomes, stronger belonging, and self-confidence. Thank you to FMSD Superintendent Juan Cruz for welcoming me and TFA Vice President of Schools and Community, Lorena Chavez, to Santee Elementary School to connect with students directly.

 

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UPLIFTING CHAMPIONS FOR CHANGE

Senator Cortese with WPUSA's Executive Director, Maria Noel Fernandez.

It was an honor to celebrate and uplift Champions for Change at Working Partnerships USA's Annual Gala! This year, WPUSA recognized labor leaders who made significant contributions toward improving working conditions for hotel, service, fast food, and nonprofit workers. I was also able to catch up with WPUSA's Executive Director, Maria Noel Fernandez.

 

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HOSTING MY 2025 VIRTUAL LEGISLATIVE UPDATE TOWN HALL

Screenshot of Virtual Legislative Update Town Hall with Senator Cortese

On October 14th, I hosted my 2025 Virtual Legislative Update Town Hall, where I spoke to over 120 constituents about my work and their legislative priorities. Watch the town hall here!

 

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INNOVATING AND ADAPTING FOR SUPPORTIVE HOUSING

Senator Cortese speaking to colleagues in a break-out discussion group.

I spent some time in San Antonio, Texas this past month with a delegation from the Bay Area, where I helped lead a break-out discussion on challenges in the delivery of homeless services. We also visited Haven for Hope, the city’s main homeless facility, which has secured shelter and permanent housing for an estimated 47,000 individuals over the years. The Bay Area Legislative delegation also connected with local leaders in San Antonio and Austin on successful models we can adapt for our unique needs in the Bay Area and across California. 

 

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TOURING REACH OUT FOOD PANTRY IN MORGAN HILL

Senator Cortese with members of Reach Out Food Pantry in Morgan Hill

In the world's fifth largest economy, no Californian should go to bed feeling hungry. However, an estimated 5.5 million Californians, including low-income families with children and seniors, face food insecurity as the federal government shutdown continues and CalFresh benefits are delayed.

That is why I met with Carol and Monica, co-directors of Reach Out Food Pantry, to get a better understanding of the challenges families in Morgan Hill are experiencing. I commend the state for its swift action in allocating $80 million and deploying the National Guard to assist food banks like Reach Out Food Pantry. 
 

 

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MAKING A COMMUNITY IMPACT

Senator Cortese and Trustee Pattie Cortese with member of VAO

A heartfelt thank you to the Vietnamese American Organization (VAO) for presenting me with its Community Impact Award this month. | am incredibly grateful for the recognition and for the contributions of our Vietnamese American community.

 

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CELEBRATING PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS

1) Photograph of Morgan Hill Unified School District students, faculty, and administrators with SJSU leadership and mascot. 2) Gilroy Unified School District administrators and elected officials with SJSU President Cynthia Teniente Matson and mascot.

San Jose State University has teamed up with both Morgan Hill Unified School District and Gilroy Unified School District to ensure college ready students have "Pathways to Success" to higher education! As part of the "Pathways to Success" partnership, all CSU eligible MHUSD and GUSD high school students will be granted admission to SJSU, strengthening ties with the community. Students will also benefit from being able to dual enroll at SJSU allowing them to earn college credits, thereby making a higher education more accessible and affordable for more students. Thank you to SJSU President Cynthia Teniente-Matson, GUSD Superintendent Dr. Anusha Munshi, and MHUSD Superintendent Dr. Carmen García for their forward thinking leadership.

For more information on the "Pathways to Success" partnership, please contact my District Representative, Meghan Bedi, via email at meghan.bedi@sen.ca.gov or by phone at 408-723-4154.
 

 

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COMMENDING PEOPLE ACTING IN COMMUNITY TOGETHER

: Senator Cortese presenting a Senate Resolution to Father Jon Pedigo

Congratulations to People Acting in Community Together (PACT) San Jose on 40 years of being a champion for the indigent and vulnerable among us. Thank you for everything you do to advocate for affordable housing, child health care, racial justice, immigrant's rights, and more. I had the opportunity to present PACT Executive Director, Father Jon Pedigo, with a CA Senate Resolution commemorating the occasion at their annual leadership luncheon.

Congratulations to John Sobrato, who was an honoree at the event. 

 

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FIGHTING FOOD INSECURITY

Staffer Mario Lopez with Martha’s Kitchen community leader

Congratulations to Martha's Kitchen on its Story Road kitchen facility expansion, which will enable them to increase the number of meals they serve to food insecure residents from 2.5 million meals per year to an astounding 7 million meals, once its new kitchen is fully expanded! 

Martha's Kitchen has gone above and beyond the call of service, truly living the spirit of compassion by joining us each year at my Unhoused Health Fair and providing over 600 warm meals to those experiencing homelessness. I look forward to our continued partnership to end hunger in our community.

 

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FLYING HIGH FOR CALFIRE

Staffers Mario Lopez, Suzanne Wheaton, and Zachary Contini posed with CAL FIRE in front of new Fire Hawk Helicopter

Thank you to CAL FIRE for welcoming my District staff to its station and for showing them the new Fire Hawk helicopter!

In 2022, I helped secure $99 million to buy additional Fire Hawk helicopters, along with $11.7 million in ongoing funding for four additional helicopters. I’m glad to see our hard earned tax dollars working for the safety of the community. 

The Fire Hawk services the counties of Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz, providing fire service, search and rescue, vegetation mitigation, and more. Cal FIRE has the largest aerial fleet in the country and is internationally recognized. The agency is leveraging new AI technology helping to identify wildfires as they aim for faster response times. Join me in thanking Chief Marcus Hernandez and his team for their bravery and service to the community, which includes their service during the Palisades wildfire. 

 

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DISCUSSING EDUCATION EQUITY 

Staffer Mario Lopez, photographed among community leaders, at the Ribbon Cutting ceremony.

At SVEF’s 3rd Annual Education Policy Summit, I highlighted the urgency of bringing greater equity in per pupil funding between well-off school districts and those in disadvantaged communities. I have strived to do so through my Senate Bill 743 referred to as the “Education Equalization Act: Equalization Reserve Account.”

The funding inequities between districts can sometimes exceed $16,000 per student, further disabling under-resourced children. Research shows that even a $1,000 increase in per pupil spending over three years can raise test scores by the equivalent of an entire grade level, increase high school graduation rates by 8%, and improve college readiness. 

A special thank you to Silicon Valley Education Foundation for working alongside me sponsoring SB 743, and for extending the invite to serve as a panelist with former Senator Josh Newman, and EdVoice CEO, Marshall Tuck. The panel was moderated by NBC Bay Area reporter, Damien Trujillo. 

 

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CELEBRATING CLASSIC CARS AND CULTURE

Classic cars pictured at the 10th Annual Tamal Festival and Lowrider Show in Downtown Gilroy

It was a very festive and vibrant 10th Annual Tamal Festival and Lowrider Show in Downtown Gilroy! Congratulations to CARAS South County on another successful event highlighting the rich Mexican heritage and traditions of the city through good food and mesmerizing cultural performances. The festival attracts an estimated 15,000 local residents each year. 

 

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INVESTING IN DIVERSE EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES

Senator Dave Cortese and Trustee Pattie Cortese photographed with Councilmember Michael Mulcahy, Tony Arreola, and Jaime Arreola 

For over thirty years, the Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley has held its annual gala to raise critically needed funds to then invest in STEM educational initiatives benefitting Latina/o students from under-resourced communities across the South Bay.

At a time when Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives are under attack, it is empowering to see organizations like the Hispanic Foundation continue to uphold these as our core values and assist talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

I was joined by my wife, Pattie Cortese, San Jose Councilmember Michael Mulcahy, and Tony and Jaime Arreola.

 

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MAINTAINING A QUALITY WATER SUPPLY

Senator Cortese Speaking at Joint Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture’s Annual Informational Hearing

From the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta to our South Bay Shoreline, maintaining the quality of our water supply has never been more important. It is more than just preventing pollution along our waterways or protecting the environment- it is about preserving safe, livable spaces for our families to enjoy, for our wildlife to thrive, and for future generations to inherit.

That was the focus of the Joint Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture’s annual informational hearing, where we heard public testimony from state department officials, fisheries, tribes and other experts about ongoing challenges and developing concerns such as delayed crab seasons, limited salmon runs, marine heatwaves, kelp declines, and more. I look forward to collaborating with Senate Pro Tempore, Mike McGuire, in addressing these challenges. 

 

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SUPPORTING FOOD SECURITY FOR THE UNHOUSED COMMUNITY

Senator Dave Cortese and Trustee Pattie Cortese attending annual Community Seva Gala

Since its inception over ten years ago, Community Seva has served over 400,000 warm meals to homeless and food insecure individuals across Silicon Valley. 

Named as my Senate District 15’s “2024 Nonprofit of the Year,” Community SEVA has also provided unhoused individuals with basic care packages and warm showers. That was the work highlighted at its Ray of Hope Gala this past month.

 

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PARTICIPATING IN DURGA PUJA

Staff member, Meghan Bedi, presenting Certification of Recognition to Bay Area Pabrasi commemorating Durga Puja

Happy Durga Puja! Each year, Hindus celebrate the mythological deity goddess Durga’s victory over the powerful demon, Mahishasura, by hosting a puja, a devotional worship involving offerings, prayers, and songs. It is a ritual of good overcoming evil. 

Beyond the mythology, however, the Durga Puja is celebrated as the start of the harvest season, as Durga is revered as the motherly power behind all of life and creation. My staff member, Meghan Bedi, presented a certificate of Recognition to local nonprofit, Bay Area Pabrasi, commemorating the special holiday. 

 

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SPEAKING TO FELLOW ROTARIANS

Senator Cortese presenting at Almaden Valley/Willow Glen Rotary Club

As a long-standing Rotarian, I continue to center much of my public service work in the community. Thank you to the Almaden Valley/Willow Glen Rotary Club for having me present on my year’s work in the state’s legislature, specifically authoring 15 bills which reached the Governor’s desk! Rotary clubs are composed of community and professional leaders who work to address some of the world’s most challenging issues through service projects.

 

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FIGHTING FOR DUE PROCESS

Senator Dave Cortese and Supervisor Betty Duong speaking at ‘People Acting in Community Together’ event

As a descendent of Italian immigrants, and as an attorney, I am committed to upholding the due process rights of individuals, regardless of their immigration status or lack thereof. 

At a time in which immigrants are being indiscriminately targeted for detention and deportation, efforts like Universal Legal Representation enable hardworking families with established roots to remain in their communities. I commend People Acting in Community Together for their faith-based advocacy, championing Universal Legal Representation to help keep Santa Clara County families stay together. I am committed to championing such efforts at the state level and look toward collaborating with Supervisor Betty Duong and others to do so at the local county level.

 

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WALKING TO END ALZHEIMERS

Senator Dave Cortese presenting Leigh High School rising junior, Ananya Sharma with Certificate of Recognition

What an honor to join folks at the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s! This year, I presented Certificates of Recognition to several outstanding volunteers who helped coordinate today’s walk, including Leigh High School rising junior, Ananya Sharma. 

Ananya’s grandfather suffers from the condition, which has motivated her to take biology courses at West Valley College, so that she may one day help find a cure to treat Alzheimer’s and dementia. She has also recently volunteered to become an Alzheimer’s State Champion to my office! Know the early warning signs of someone with Alzheimer’s by visiting: http://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10-signs.

 

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CELEBRATING TAIWAN’S FREEDOM

Senator Cortese picture with community members celebrating the 114th anniversary of the Wuchang Uprising

This October 10th marked the 114th anniversary of the Wuchang Uprising, a rebellion resulting in the overthrow of China’s last imperial dynasty, the Qing Dynasty. 

The anniversary is now commemorated as the National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The day is celebrated by cultural flag ceremonies, such as the one I attended at the County of Santa Clara’s James P. McEntee, Sr. Plaza. 

 

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RECOGNIZING A TIRELESS ADVOCATE

Baymec Co-Founder Wiggsy Sivertsen with Senator Dave Cortese and Trustee Pattie Cortese

Pattie and I had the opportunity to recognize the Bay Area Municipal Elections Committee co-founder Wiggsy Sivertsen at BAYMEC’s annual Progress Never Stops Brunch. She was also recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award!

Wiggsy was thrust into the world of politics after being outed and fired for being a gay counselor for the Peninsula Children’s Center in Palo Alto in the late 1960’s. That experience led her to get involved in campaigning against the Briggs Initiative during the 1978 election, which would have banned LGBTQ+ individuals from teaching at California Public Schools. In 1984, she helped co-found BAYMEC along with former Supervisor Ken Yeager to continue to champion the civil rights and visibility of LGBTQ+ community members in Santa Clara, San Mateo, Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. Thank you for your tireless advocacy over the years, Wiggsy!

 

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COUNTERACTING CENSORSHIP

Senator Cortese photographed with community leaders at Banned Books Event

At a time when freedom of speech is under attack, we must do all we can to defend our constitutional rights, including raising awareness over the banning of books. That was the focus of my conversation with former American Library Association’s President, Patty Wong, at San Jose State University, during National Banned Books Week from Oct. 5th through Oct. 11th. This year’s theme, “Censorship is so 1984,” highlighted the increase in banning of books at our libraries and schools nationwide, the harm it causes, and our duty to have an informed citizenry. Listen to our fireside chat here: http://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1526312152056757&id=100064828837336&mibextid=ZbWKwL 

 

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CELEBRATING LITTLE ITALY WITH COMMUNITY LEADERS

Senator Dave Cortese pictured with Congressman Sam Liccardo, Supervisor Betty Duong, and Councilmember Michael Mulcahy, among others from Little Italy at the Little Italy San Jose Festival 

Buon Anniversario Ottavio al festival di Little Italy San Jose! Happy 8th anniversary to Little Italy San Jose’s Festival! Held annually for the past 8 years, the festival commemorates the historic contributions, culture, roots, and traditions of Italian immigrants who started arriving to Silicon Valley during the 1880’s. 

As Italian-Americans in our state’s legislature, Assemblywomen Stefani and I are proud to reactivate the Italian Caucus in Sacramento, building upon the groundwork set by my father, Dominic Cortese, who was one of the original founders of the Italian Task Force predating the Caucus. 

Senator Wahab and I presented Little Italy San Jose with a Joint Certificate of Recognition commemorating the organization’s 8th anniversary of its festival. We presented the certificate to Josh Melander, Founder of Little Italy. 

 

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DISCUSSING COURT CHANGES & CHALLENGES

Senator Cortese photographed at Honorable Julia A. Emede’s Court Legislative Day Briefing

Thank you to Santa Clara County Superior Court Presiding Judge, Honorable Julia A. Emede, for inviting me to her Court’s Legislative Day briefing! The briefing provided an update on the status of the court and its changes. 

A special thank you also to Hon. Judge Julia Allogiamento, Assistant Presiding Judge Hon. Eric Geffon, Probate Court Hon. Judge Jacqueline Duong, Mental Health Court Hon. Judge Kelly Paul, and Criminal and Traffic Court Hon. Judge Elizabeth Peterson for coordinating the briefing. The briefing included a discussion around issues on CARE Court, post-conviction work, and the current iteration of Prop. 36. 

 

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IN OUR STATE CAPITOL

BRIDGING THE CARE GAP FOR VULNERABLE ANIMALS

Senator Cortese speaking at a podium among colleagues in the legislature and community leaders

Good news to share! My Senate Bill 602 was signed into law by Governor Newson! The bill “will help bridge the care gap for the vulnerable animals in shelters and underserved communities,” the San Diego Humane Society said in a statement. Read more here: California responds to veterinarian shortage.

 

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MAKING DIWALI AN OFFICIAL HOLIDAY

Graphic reading “wishing you a bright and joyous Diwali”

Happy Diwali to everyone! This year, I was a proud co-author of Assemblyman Ash Kalra's AB 268 which declared the celebration an official holiday in California! Popularly referred to as the "Festival of Lights," this year's Diwali festival takes on a special significance.

 

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THESE BILLS & OTHERS WERE SIGNED INTO LAW THIS MONTH!

Graphic reading “SB 400” and “Senator Cortese’s Senate Bill SB 400 signed into law by Governor Newsom” among other specifications on the bill. Graphic reading “SB 551 & SB 553” and “Senator Cortese’s Senate Bills SB 551 & SB 553 signed into law by Governor Newsom” among other specifications on the bills.

Graphic reading “SB 429” and “Senator Cortese’s Senate Bill SB 429 signed into law by Governor Newsom” among other specifications on the bill. Graphic reading “SB 30” and “Senator Cortese’s Senate Bill SB 30 signed into law by Governor Newsom” among other specifications on the bill.

Graphic reading “SB 653” and “Senator Cortese’s Senate Bill SB 653 signed into law by Governor Newsom” among other specifications on the bill. Graphic reading “SB 753” and “Senator Cortese’s Senate Bill SB 753 signed into law by Governor Newsom” among other specifications on the bill.

Above are some highlights of bills I authored this session that were signed into law by Governor Newsom, among others listed previously. Thank you to my team and colleagues in the California Legislature for making these momentous changes possible. To read more about these bills and others that reached the Governor’s desk this year, read here: 2025-2026 Legislation | Senator Dave Cortese

 

 

My Work, In the News

 

SENATE BILL 429: THE NATION’S FIRST PUBLIC WILDFIRE MODEL

SB 429 establishes the first-in-the-nation Wildfire Catastrophe Public Model to assess wildfire risk, inform insurance rates, and educate the public. This bill will ensure transparency to help homeowners understand if they’re getting a fair deal on insurance. This bill will also improve wildfire preparedness and response through better data and planning tools. Check out these recent articles to learn more: 

• The Public Citizen: California’s Public Wildfire Model will Take Climate Data out of the ‘Black Box’

• Action News Now: Three new bills aimed at enhancing fire mitigation efforts and reducing fire risks signed by Governor Newsom

• Los Angeles Times: Fire survivors to get up to $350,000 for personal property without itemized list under new state law

• The Mercury News: Check out some wildfire-related bills that Gov. Newsom signed last week

• FOX 26 News: California enacts law for transparent wildfire risk model to help homeowners

• Oakdale Leader: Wildfire safety tops Department of Insurance agenda

• Digital Insurance: Governor approves public wildfire catastrophe model

• California News Observer: Governor Newsom signs bipartisan legislation to boost ongoing Los Angeles rebuilding efforts, strengthen future disaster response and recovery
  
   

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SENATE BILL 602: EXPANDING ACCESS TO VETERINARY CARE

SB 602 makes veterinary care more accessible by expanding access to low-cost veterinary care and reducing barriers for underserved pet owners and shelter animals. A public health measure, this bill enhances disease control efforts by ensuring more pets are protected from common diseases in a timely manner. Check out these recent articles to learn more:

• Sierra Sun Times: California State Senator Dave Cortese’s Bill to Expand Animal Health Services Signed by Governor Newsom, Allows Animal Shelters to Serve More Animals and Pet Owners More Efficiently

• FOX 5 News: California addresses veterinarian shortage, expands scope of veterinary staff

East County Magazine: Governor Newsom signs groundbreaking bills expanding access to veterinary care in California

 

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SENATE BILL 30: DECOMISSIONING DIESEL LOCOMOTIVES

SB 30 ensures that diesel locomotives that are decommissioned by public agencies cannot be resold or donated for continued diesel-use, preventing harmful emissions from polluting communities in California or elsewhere. Check out these recent articles to learn more: 

• Trains Magazine: California governor signs bill banning resale of retired diesel rail equipment

• Politico E&E News: California’s Newsom signs bill to restrict the sale of old diesel trains
  
   

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SENATE BILL 753: ABANDONED SHOPPING CART RECOVERY

SB 753 modernizes state law to allow cities and counties to immediately recover and return abandoned shopping carts. This bill will reduce sidewalk obstructions, environmental pollution, and flood risks caused by abandoned carts. Check out these recent articles to learn more:

• CBS News: California bill to improve cleanup of abandoned shopping carts signed into law

• The Mercury News: Newsom signs new shopping cart law championed by San Jose politicians

 

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SENATE BILL 597: WAGE THEFT PROTECTIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

SB 597 protects workers from wage theft by ensuring general contractors remain liable for unpaid compensation owed by subcontractors on private construction projects. Check out this recent article to learn more:

• Newsbreak: California Enacts New Law to Protect Construction Workers’ Wages From Shady Bosses 
  
   

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SENATE BILL 683: REMEDIATING USE OF LIKENESS

SB 683 allows victims of unauthorized image use—including unauthorized use of another's name, voice, signature, photograph, or likeness in any manner—to seek injunctive relief for immediate removal within two business days while courts resolve disputes. This measure prevents ongoing harm and protects individuals from digital exploitation. Check out this recent article to learn more:

• The Wrap: SAG-AFTRA Praises Governor Newsom for Taking Action ‘Against AI Abuse’ With New Law: ‘California Stands With Performers’
  
   

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CHECK OUT OTHER NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

• EdSource: Inequalities grow unchecked in some wealthy counties despite funding formula reforms

• ABC7 KRCR: Newsom signs major bills on slavery reparations, firearms, AI and more

• Politico: Why Silicon Valley might start sweating the shutdown soon 

• The Mercury News: Governor signs South Bay-inspired bill to enshrine rights for families of people shot by police

• The Mercury News: San Jose interfaith group PACT honors John A. Sobrato

 

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Check out my full 2025 legislative package HERE!

 

Free Community Events

 

COMMUNITY EVENT AT EMMA PRUSCH PARK

Community members photographed at event.

Join a morning of volunteering at Emma Prusch Park (647 South King Road, San Jose) on Saturday, November 8th from 8:45AM – 12PM to help beautify the gardens, support our master gardener volunteers, and make a positive impact on our shared community spaces! For more information, see here: Community Event at Emma Prusch Park! Tickets, Sat, Nov 8, 2025 at 8:45 AM | Eventbrite.

 

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DISASTER PREPAREDNESS WORKSHIP

Photograph of woman at workshop

Join a comprehensive disaster preparedness workshop led by the City of San Jose Department of Emergency Management. Learn essential skills and strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones during natural disasters. This hands-on training session will be held at 5030 N First Street, San Jose on November 8th from 12PM – 2:30PM. For more information, see here: Disaster preparedness workshop Tickets, Sat, Nov 8, 2025 at 12:00 AM | Eventbrite.

 

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OUR CITY FOREST NURSERY WORKDAY

Photograph of Our City Forest Nursery

Volunteer at the Our City Forest Community Nursery and Training Center (1000 Spring St., San Jose) on Saturday, November 22nd from 9AM – 12PM. The event will start with a tour of the Community Nursery. Then, volunteers will work together with OCF AmeriCorps members to perform tasks around the nursery. This is a moderate-high intensity event. For more information, see here: Nursery Workday (Medium to High Intensity) Tickets, Sat, Nov 22, 2025 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite.

 

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ALUM ROCK TRAIL CREW COMMUNITY DAY EVENT

Community members volunteering at a prior Community Day event

Join SJ Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services at Alum Rock Park for a Community Day on November 8th, from 8:45AM - 12PM. For more information on parking, attire, and meeting location, see here: Alum Rock Trail Crew - Monthly Community Day Event! Tickets, Sat, Nov 8, 2025 at 8:45 AM | Eventbrite.

 

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FRIENDSGIVING GATHERING

Join the Free Friendsgiving Gathering at 284 Barnard Ave on November 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM (Pacific Time) for a day filled with delicious food and great company. Celebrate the spirit of gratitude with your neighbors and support your local vendors, while enjoying music and community environment. For more information, see here: Free Friendsgiving Gathering Tickets, Sat, Nov 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM | Eventbrite

 

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MAKERS MARKET’S LOCAL ARTIST STREET FAIR

MAKERS MARKET’s™ Local Artist Street Fair is returning to Santana Row, uniting top local artisans, makers, and small businesses for a festive, open-air shopping event just in time for Thanksgiving and early holiday gifting. Join at Santana Row from 11AM – 6 pm ON BOTH November 8th and 9th. For more information, see here: MAKERS MARKET’s™ Local Artist Street Fair @ Santana Row Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.

 

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COYOTE CREE VOLUNTEER CLEAN UP DAY

Help keep Coyote Creek watershed clean for our local wildlife and drinking water by joining our FREE Coyote Creek Volunteer Clean Up Day at Hellyer County Park on Friday November 7, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM! Coyote Creek watershed is an important water source for rare plants that grow on serpentine soils and steelhead trout that mate in its waterways. All activities will be standing up and supplies and tools are provided in addition to snacks, lunch and a bottle of water. This program is hosted in partnership with Valley Water. See here to register and for more information: https://www.bayareaolderadults.org/november. 

 

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VOTER HUB AT OPEN SAN JOSE

From October 13th to November 4th from 4PM-8PM, Latina Coalition Silicon Valley (LCSV) and LEAD Filipino are hosting a Voter Hub at Open San José (38 South Second Street San Jose) to provide weekly canvassing training on relational organizing technology, media literacy workshops, and manage direct voter engagement activities such as phone banking and door-knocking initiatives. For more information, see here: Voter Hub at Open San José Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.

 

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AVENIDA DE ALTARES CELEBRATION

Photograph of event in a prior year, including dozens of attendees in front of a lit stage.

From October 13th to November 4th from 4PM-8PM, Latina Coalition Silicon Valley (LCSV) and LEAD Filipino are hosting a Voter Hub at Open San José (38 South Second Street San Jose) to provide weekly canvassing training on relational organizing technology, media literacy workshops, and manage direct voter engagement activities such as phone banking and door-knocking initiatives. For more information, see here: Voter Hub at Open San José Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.

 

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AVENIDA DE ALTARES CELEBRATION

Photograph of event in a prior year, including dozens of attendees in front of a lit stage.

On Saturday, November 1st from 5:30PM – 10:30PM, Avenida de Altares will fill the Mexican Heritage Plaza (1700 Alum Rock Ave San Jose) with color, music, and the vibrant spirit of Día de los Muertos. Guests can explore a curated altar gallery woven through local businesses, join hands-on art activities for all ages, and see faces light up with colorful designs. For more information, see here: Avenida de Altares Tickets, Sat, Nov 1, 2025 at 5:30 PM | Eventbrite.

 

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SANTA CLARA COUNTY 2025 STAND DOWN

Santa Clara County’s 2025 Stand Down is a free 3-day event designed to provide services to support all veterans with a focus on those who are unhoused, at risk of becoming unhoused, or food insecure. 

The 2025 Stand Down will be held at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in the Pavilion and Fiesta Halls on Thursday, November 6, through Saturday, November 8, with gates open from 9 am to 4 pm. For more information, please see the 2025 Stand Down Information page. 

 

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CHECK OUT OTHER FREE EVENTS IN DISTRICT 15: 

• Free San Jose, CA Events | Eventbrite

• Free Gilroy, CA Events | Eventbrite

• Free Morgan Hill, CA Events | Eventbrite