I first experienced Environmental Initiative’s work while attending one of the 2019 statewide source water protection discussions. The gathering ended with a recap that included attendees’ perspectives, and it felt like we had contributed something meaningful. The care taken to truly hear everyone’s input impressed me and inspired me to learn more.

Environmental Initiative’s commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, along with its focus on both short-term progress and long-term impact, drew me further into its work. I believe work rooted in these values is essential for meaningful change, and admire the actions this organization takes to demonstrate a commitment to its values.

As an environmental studies major in college, much of my focus was on the disparate effects of environmental decisions—particularly the environmental harms suffered by most impacted communities. That experience deepened my understanding of environmental injustice and strengthened my commitment to relationship-building to advance solutions that center those most affected. My AmeriCorps work in Massachusetts and California and my time as an outreach specialist at a Minnesota watershed district further reinforced how essential relationships are to driving meaningful change for our ecosystems. I knew I wanted to continue working on relationship-based work centered at the intersection of connection and action to help create more equitable outcomes.

I’ve seen firsthand how diverse perspectives in the room lead to more creative and effective outcomes. My work has included everything from connecting scientists and artists to engage communities around water, to facilitating conversations between corporate employees and community leaders about best practices for meaningful community engagement. I deeply enjoy bringing together groups of people who might not typically collaborate and watching their relationships grow, their work influence one another, and their collective action drive stronger results.