Over the past 25 years, I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of some landmark victories to protect our environment. My very first summer I was part of the team that helped with the Bottle Bill in Massachusetts. A few years later I directed the campaign to pass the nation’s first toxics-use reduction law. Since then, I’ve worked on plenty of winning efforts (and I must admit a couple losers too) and in the process have had the privilege of training dozens of new organizers and advocates who are still out there, fighting every day for our air, water and open space. And all the while we’ve used these campaigns to help us build a strong, self-sufficient, citizen-based institution to boot.
As you think about your future, you’re probably considering the different ways in which you can make a difference on the environment – and perhaps on other issues about which you’re passionate as well. There are a few things that set Environment America apart from other organizations.
First, we are about making a difference not only in Congress but probably more important in state capitols across the nation. And not only are we pushing strong policy positions, we’re mobilizing concerned citizens and engaging constituency groups from all walks of life in the process. And this local and state-based organizing is really paying off. For just one example, look at the 25 states that passed renewable energy laws. Not only are they acting rather than waiting for the feds, but in fact the progress at the state level is what’s going to convince the congress to finally invest in renewable energy in a big way.
Second, we’re willing to take on powerful interests that stand in our way or in the way of a safer and healthier environment. More often than not we’re the only ones who won’t compromise or take a softer stance. Our citizen based funding and vision of social change grant us the independence and back bone to keep on fighting. Bottom line we don’t shy away from conflict – especially with special interests.
Finally, we’re in it for the long haul. We’re focused on advocating and winning specific and often incremental reforms but we have an eye toward how each smaller victory gets us closer to our long term vision. And we make sure that every campaign we take on – win or lose—makes us stronger and more effective for the next battle.
If you care about the environment and are looking for the kinds of challenges we’re facing, I encourage you to join our team. You’ll certainly have the opportunity to work hard and I’m quite sure sooner rather than later you’ll have the opportunity to be part of some landmark victories of your own. Along the way you’ll get a chance to expand your own horizons and find yourself in very good company too.
I look forward to working with you!
Margie Alt
Executive Director
As you think about your future, you’re probably considering the different ways in which you can make a difference on the environment – and perhaps on other issues about which you’re passionate as well. There are a few things that set Environment America apart from other organizations.
First, we are about making a difference not only in Congress but probably more important in state capitols across the nation. And not only are we pushing strong policy positions, we’re mobilizing concerned citizens and engaging constituency groups from all walks of life in the process. And this local and state-based organizing is really paying off. For just one example, look at the 25 states that passed renewable energy laws. Not only are they acting rather than waiting for the feds, but in fact the progress at the state level is what’s going to convince the congress to finally invest in renewable energy in a big way.
Second, we’re willing to take on powerful interests that stand in our way or in the way of a safer and healthier environment. More often than not we’re the only ones who won’t compromise or take a softer stance. Our citizen based funding and vision of social change grant us the independence and back bone to keep on fighting. Bottom line we don’t shy away from conflict – especially with special interests.
Finally, we’re in it for the long haul. We’re focused on advocating and winning specific and often incremental reforms but we have an eye toward how each smaller victory gets us closer to our long term vision. And we make sure that every campaign we take on – win or lose—makes us stronger and more effective for the next battle.
If you care about the environment and are looking for the kinds of challenges we’re facing, I encourage you to join our team. You’ll certainly have the opportunity to work hard and I’m quite sure sooner rather than later you’ll have the opportunity to be part of some landmark victories of your own. Along the way you’ll get a chance to expand your own horizons and find yourself in very good company too.
I look forward to working with you!
Margie Alt
Executive Director
