Dervaes Institute

Practical education now for a sustainable future

Path to Freedom offers a wide range of events: classes in sustainability; film screenings; lectures and workshops.

We design our events not only as an opportunity to learn, but also as an occasion to build a community network of like-minded people who can inspire and support one another in their quest for sustainable choices and a simpler way of living.

We endeavor to make our events as "eco- friendly" as possible with solar (or other "alternative and green") electricity, oil lamps, candles, biodiesel fueled torches, and a "low or zero waste policy" by providing reusable or compostable plates, cups, and utensils to ensure there is no unnecessary waste.

All other waste (i.e., plastic wrappers, glass bottles, food containers, etc) and food scraps are recycled, reused, composted or fed to Path to Freedom's pet chickens , goats and ducks. {Read more about zero waste events }

We have successfully held events with attendance of 100+ plus and have had a simple, small grocery bag leftover of trash which is usually recyclable in the city's recycling bin.

Path to Freedom's goal is to be a real-life working model for an ecologically sustainable lifestyle and to share the skills, motivation and ideas behind that lifestyle with fellow travelers.


Our online calendar of current events and outreach programs displays all relevant information for events organized by or involving Path to Freedom.


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Our community facility

Path to Freedom is looking for skilled and knowledgeable people to give workshops, film screenings, classes or lectures.

Our unique and inviting facility (a converted 1 and 1/2 car old fashioned craftsman garage) is able to hold a maximum of 60 people (or more depending on the weather). For larger events, we are able to make arrangements other nearby neighborhood facilities that can accommodate over 125 people.

Submit lecture or workshop proposal Read More






PTF - Earth Day, Santa Monica

Since 2002, Path to Freedom has participated annually in many community events and conferences.

Our informative and colorful exhibits on urban homesteading, biodiesel production and more have been seen by thousands -- from young children to adults.

Additionally, Jules Dervaes, founder of Path to Freedom, has given illustrated lectures to a wide range of audiences.

List of appearances and community events Read More Path to Freedom has participated in.

What can Path to Freedom offer to your community event, school, fundraiser, or conference Read More (coming soon)

Interested in inviting the Dervaes Family / Path to Freedom to your event or conference? Submit your speaking / exhibitor request Read More

Invite Path to Freedom's personable, trained, and gentle 'Citified Farm Animals' to your school, event, fundraiser, etc. Our hand-raised ducks, chickens, and leash-trained miniature goats are great for education use, childrens' outings or for "Heifer International" fundraisers. read more and make a reservation Read More