CSN was founded in 2008 by the Morgan Family Foundation as a civic venture. In 2019, CSN joined California Forward, who serves as the backbone of the organization.

With more than 25 organizations throughout the state – and growing – CSN represents the state’s diverse regions. From top to bottom, east to west, coastal and inland, urban and rural – CSN is built upon a foundation of collaboration to move triple-bottom-line solutions that balance equity, the environment and the economy. While each of California’s regions are distinct, there are also many things that bind us together. It is through sharing resources, ideas, innovations and best practices that CSN lifts up solutions that can be implemented throughout the state.

To ensure stewards continue to be identified and trained to lead in each region, CSN leaders serve as mentors to emerging stewards through its Becky Morgan Steward Leadership Program.