In order for sustainability to be successful, people have to join together and everyone has to make a contribution. Sustainability has to be inclusive and this working group strives to reach as many people as possible in all Cleveland’s neighborhoods at all socio-economic levels. ACCOMPLISHMENTS
In 2011, the Vital Neighborhoods Committee hosted “Green Your Block Energy Efficiency Challenge” to be
gin recruiting participants in block clubs citywide. Residents will take action to reduce household energy consumption by changing incandescent bulbs to CFLs, installing a programmable thermostat and by installing a low flow showerhead. In 2012, The Vital Neighborhoods Committee hosted a Local Foods Challenge for residents and organizations in Cleveland neighborhoods. The winners in each category, who achieved both local food outcomes and engaged their community, will win $550 in support of their project. Also, the committee collaborated with Neighborhood Progress Inc. on the First Annual Citywide Local Foods Potluck, held on September 29th, 2012 at Edgewater Park, Upper Pavilion. The Second Annual Citywide Local Foods Potluck was held on September 22nd, 2013 at the Historic Dunham Tavern in Midtown
In 2013, the Vital Neighborhoods group developed a skill share microgrant program. This program provides small grants of up to $75 to fund the purchase of materials and supplies for neighborhood residents to host skill share classes or workshops in their neighborhoods.
