History and Mission

The Sequoia Center for Holistic Studies (previously known as Fernald Center of Springville, California), was founded in 1986 according to the vision of the Center's benefactor, Edmund G. Fernald--that of a nonprofit retreat and learning Center... a place to "Teach and be Taught."

The Center's three-fold purpose is to:

 Assist in the planetary realization of human potential,

Honor and protect the earth and its abundant life,

And to envision a more compassionate future.

The Center's past is marked by exciting programs in Traditional Indian Medicine, a broad array of courses to train and empower healers, spiritual retreats, prayer and ceremony, and in the important work of inspiring mentors realize and share their messages of harmony and equanimity.

Our future is aimed toward ever greater community involvement and the promotion of cooperative efforts through the nurturing of each individual member's talents, gifts, and spirit.