Jay Escalante is the Children's Nature Institute Lead Animal Husbandry Volunteer. He is responsible for the care and feeding of the animals we bring to classrooms and special events.  Jay has been instrumental in establishing a welcoming, hospitable office environment.

   Arlene Aguilar loves working with young children! Her previous work experiences include helping out at various elementary schools. She also took a child development class at her high school.  Arlene has shown tremendous bravery and openness to experiences; originally, she wanted to do desk work but she has been most gracious in helping to feed and take care of the animals!

   Carlos Dominguez is a student intern. He is currently studying photography at the high school level, and will be involved in various public relations projects for CNI. Carlos helps care for the animals, and is eager to learn all of the different ways he can make an impact on our community through various CNI programs.

   Christina Cabrera is a Children's Nature Institute intern specializing in animal husbandry and educational outreach.  Her previous experiences include leading children's activities in the S.A.Y. YES program, membership in the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, and providing office support for Central City Community Outreach and the Lafayette Recreation Center.  At CNI, Christina has provided assistance with grant-writing and lesson-planning.

   Crystal Havens is an intern from Antioch University.  Her concentration is Urban Community and Environment, with a focus on urban gardening.  Crystal loves going on hikes, gardening, and camping, and her passion is reflected in the work she does at CNI.  She has helped with CNI's myriad projects - from animal care to lesson planning and writing press releases...Crystal has all the bases covered!

   Justin Martinez is a volunteer who heard about CNI by "walking into the office and being curious." He is interested in all aspects of fundraising, special events, animal care, and caring for our environment.  Although he is our youngest volunteer, Justin makes no small impact.  His limitless curiosity, enthusiasm, and encouragement for CNI projects energize staff and visitors alike!

   Elizabeth Foreman is a public relations intern at CNI.  She has helped with all aspects of publicizing events, from contacting news organizations to keeping our Facebook and Twitter accounts current.  Liz has been invaluable in bringing our staff up to speed.  She is studying to be a cosmetologist/beautician, and has added her special, stylish touch to all of the projects she has been assigned here at CNI.