First Steps is a guided initiative designed to help organizations implement sustainable practices. The program offers resources, support, and a framework for communities to engage in environmental stewardship.
Any faith community, nonprofit or educational institution (or club within the institution) that is interested in sustainability and stewardship is welcome to join. We tailor the program to fit organizations of various sizes.
There is no fixed cost to participate in First Steps. However, we encourage communities that can afford to contribute a donation to help sustain the program and expand its reach.
The program offers various tracks focusing on different aspects of sustainability, such as facilities, service, and capacity builder. Each track is designed to be flexible and can be customized to meet your community's specific needs.
First Steps runs alongside the academic year, starting in September and concluding in May. This timeline helps communities plan and execute their sustainability projects effectively.
Participants receive a program handbook, access to funding support, data collection tools, and regular support from the program coordinators. We also facilitate monthly check-ins and provide a platform for sharing experiences with other communities.
To sign up, contact us at missy@thesustainabilityalliance.org to express your interest, and we will guide you through the onboarding process.
Communities joining mid-year can still participate. We’ll help you integrate into the program at an appropriate point and catch up with the scheduled activities.
The main commitment is to actively participate and engage with the program activities throughout the year. We encourage consistent involvement to maximize the benefits for your community.
Yes, feedback is an integral part of the program. We provide regular assessments and support to help you monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your sustainability strategies.
