Through the Accelerator's public engagement efforts, we fostered climate awareness across the Genesee-Finger Lakes Region. Residents connected with action opportunities like educational trips to Wild Hill Farm, an organic regenerative farm in Ontario County, and Ithaca EcoVillage, a co-housing community exemplifying energy-efficient living and ecological sustainability. By improving informational materials for prospective volunteers and introducing an enhanced system for onboarding and follow-up, we achieved a 7% increase in regularly active volunteers. This success highlights our commitment to empowering the community and building capacity among those eager to make a difference.

The 2024 Climate Solutions Summit highlighted the intersection of climate challenges, public health, and equity. Participants gained insights into the health impacts of climate change and collaborated on strategies for fostering a healthier, more equitable future in the region. Keynote speakers Cecelia Sorenson, M.D., Director of the Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education at Columbia University, and Wade Norwood, CEO of Common Ground Health, shared critical information with inspiring messages from their own areas of expertise. The event also featured healthcare professionals, equity advocates, and local residents who spoke about the climate challenges they face and the effects on their communities.

We convened an intergenerational organizing committee for the Rochester Climate March, held on September 15, 2023, which gathered 250 marchers. This committee brought together passionate volunteers from various groups, including the Rochester Youth Climate Leaders, the Sunrise Movement, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, NY RENEWS, and Color Brighton Green. Their combined efforts underscored a collaborative approach to advancing climate advocacy across generations and organizations.