About Breathe California Sacramento Region
We are dedicated to advocating for clean air, tobacco-free communities, and sustainable transportation. Through education, outreach, and local partnerships, we’re creating a healthier, more breathable future—one marked by cleaner air, stronger policies, and healthier lungs.
Breathe California Sacramento Region: A Century of Advocacy for Clean Air and Healthy Lungs
Since 1917, Breathe California Sacramento Region has been at the forefront of promoting lung health and clean air in our communities. Originally established as the Sacramento Society for the Prevention and Cure of Tuberculosis, the organization has evolved to address the pressing respiratory challenges of each era.
In its early years, SacBreathe operated free tuberculosis clinics, initiated school nutrition programs, and conducted mass X-ray screenings to combat the tuberculosis epidemic. As public health needs shifted, the organization expanded its focus to include anti-tobacco initiatives, clean transportation advocacy, and air quality improvement efforts.
Today, SacBreathe continues to champion a future with tobacco-free youth, accessible electric vehicles, and pedestrian-friendly communities. Through education, policy advocacy, and community engagement, we strive to ensure that everyone in the Sacramento Region can breathe clean, healthy air.
Our Team
At SacBreathe California Sacramento Region, our team is united by a shared mission: to promote clean air and healthy lungs for all. Since 1917, we've combined expertise in public health, education, and advocacy to serve the region with passion and purpose. Together, we’re working toward a future where everyone can breathe easier.
Jennifer Finton
Chief Executive Officer
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Jennifer Finton returned to Breathe in 2017 after a hiatus to advocate for improved air quality through better land use planning, guided by the Clean Air Agenda. She has over 12 years experience with Sacramento- based non-profits. She has an MS in Business Administration from UC Davis and a BA in Botany from UC Riverside. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys walking and bicycling, and leading her daughter’s Girl Scout troop.
Paige Arnett
Program Manager
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Paige is a California State University Sacramento student pursuing her B.S. in environmental studies. In 2021, she received her A.S. in environmental conservation from American River College. Throughout her education, she has developed a passion for sustainability and community outreach. In the future, she hopes to pursue a master’s degree focusing on Environmental Policy. Paige grew up in the Sacramento area and looks forward to engaging and interacting with the community while also helping the environment. In her free time, Paige loves reading, baking, hiking, and spending time with her family.
Sydney Hodge
Program Manager
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Sydney Hodge graduated in 2024 from Sacramento State with a degree in Political Science and minor in Environmental Studies. Through her work at BREATHE she hope to gain a better understanding of community needs and create a safer city through a cleaner environment. In the future, she hopes to earn her masters in environmental planning and sustainability. In her free time, she likes to spend time with family, drink coffee, and go on adventures with her dog, Reese.
Emely Vargas
Program Intern
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Emely graduated from Sacramento State University in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies. She has a strong passion for conservation, sustainability and advocating for cleaner, more sustainable practices within California. During her time with Sac Breathe, she hopes to contribute by supporting air quality initiatives and community outreach efforts that help residents access cleaner air and healthier environments in Sacramento. In her free time, she enjoys birdwatching, hiking with friends and family and exploring new coffee shops.
Sharon Kaur
Program Manager
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Sharon Kaur graduated from University of California, San Diego with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with an emphasis in Law and Society. A strong advocate for bringing environmental justice and sustainability in all communities. She previously advocated for housing rights and rental assistance for underserved communities. She is dedicated to understanding the needs of the community and the resources they may need. In her free time, Sharon volunteers with community garden organizations, tends to her own garden, and enjoys embroidery!
Kassandra Vega
Program Manager
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Kassandra recently graduated from UC Davis in 2024 with a BS in Environmental Science, with a concentration in ecology, biodiversity, and conservation. She is passionate about environmental justice and sustainability, and looks forward to contributing to these areas during her time at SacBreathe. Outside of work, she enjoys afternoon walks, drawing, and discovering new music.
Melissa Hill
Senior Program Manager
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Melissa Hill has lived in Yuba City since 2012. She joined Breathe California Sacramento Region in 2022 and currently serves as Senior Program Manager; leading school-based initiatives focused on waste reduction, food scraps recycling, and environmental education. Prior to this role, Melissa worked as a state preschool teacher, mentoring young learners in her community. She earned degrees in Social and Behavioral Science and Early Childhood Education from Yuba Community College, followed by a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development from CSU East Bay and a Master of Arts in Diverse Community Development Leadership from CSU Northridge. Her educational background reflects a strong commitment to equity, community engagement, and creating positive change in underserved communities. In her free time, Melissa enjoys spending quality time with her daughter and dog.
Nicole Grady
Executive Operations Manager
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Nicole started at SacBreathe in 2019. She obtained her Bachelor’s of Science in Public Health and her Bachelor’s of Science in Health Science from Dominican University of California. Nicole enjoys connecting with people, exploring new wineries and coffee shops, and spending time with her friends and her dog.
Elizabeth Savin
Program Director
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Elizabeth Savin received a Master’s in Public Health from University of California, Davis in addition to bachelor’s degrees in Public Health Science, and Urban Studies from University of California, Irvine. Through her professional work, she strives to ensure that the places where people live, work, and play are safe and free from environmental hazards. Liz is dedicated to advancing environmental justice in the Sacramento area through community engagement and public policy. When she is not working, she enjoys going for walks, traveling to new cities, and spending time with her family.
Explore Our Annual Reports
Breathe California Sacramento Region is committed to transparency and community engagement. Our annual reports provide insights into our initiatives, achievements, and financial stewardship. From tobacco prevention programs to air quality advocacy, these reports highlight our ongoing efforts to promote lung health and clean air. Access our most recent and past reports to learn more about our impact in the Sacramento Region.