Grades of Green is committed to providing accessible and inclusive environmental education that acknowledges the intersectionality of climate change, including its impacts on the LGBTQ+ community. We include environmental justice awareness and opportunities in each of our programs through accessible education, mentorship from diverse programs and environmental advisors, and extensive global reach.
LAUNCH Through our innovative LAUNCH Eco-Toolkits program, we ensure that each Eco-Toolkit not only provides comprehensive project guidance but also emphasizes the project's connection to environmental justice and its potential impact, including its relevance to the LGBTQ+ individuals in underrepresented areas.
SOAR The SOAR Eco-Innovation Academy empowers future leaders dedicated to driving systemic change. Through collaboration with industry partners, aspiring student leaders explore environmental challenges and injustices. They strive to develop innovative solutions, fostering equity for marginalized communities, which include LGBTQ+ individuals.
Within our RISE Climate Solutions Campaign, we emphasize the importance of students understanding the environmental justice issues that are central to their chosen topic areas, including food, energy, waste, transportation, trees, and deforestation. This includes acknowledging the challenges experienced by underserved communities, which include the LGBTQ+ community, and promoting awareness of their specific needs and concerns.
The UPLIFT Partnership program stands alongside school districts to achieve their environmental goals. At no cost, our UPLIFT program assists school districts to meet state requirements. It empowers students in environmentally challenged communities, providing them with the necessary tools and support to create healthier living that embrace and uplift intersectionality.
Jamie Margolin
At just 15 years old, Jamie co-foundedZero Hour, an international youth-led climate organization. Through Zero Hour, Jamie has mobilized young activists worldwide to demand urgent action from policymakers and stakeholders. Jamie's efforts have been recognized by Forbes and more recently, as one of Teen Vogue's "21 Under 21" influential young people shaping the future. In addition, Jamie has authored a book titled "Youth to Power: Your Voice and How to Use It," providing guidance and empowering young activists to create meaningful change.
Ryan Berberet Ryan Berberet, a 17-year-old climate activist from San Diego, California, has been at the forefront of environmental advocacy. Ryan's dedication to tackling the climate crisis led to the start of a Green Team on her school campus. Recognizing the potential for broader impact, Ryan elevated the club's influence by enrolling them in Action for the Climate Emergency (ACE), a national initiative that provides guidance on expanding their campus-wide organization. With her advocacy, Ryan aims to generate action for stronger measures to combat climate change at a larger-scale.
Isaias Hernandez
Isaias Hernandez is an environmental educator and the visionary behindQueer Brown Vegan.Isaias creates engaging and understandable graphics about environmental subjects, making them accessible to a wide audience on various social platforms. Their dedication to promoting environmental awareness is matched by their unwavering commitment to the overall well-being of marginalized communities and the planet as a whole. More recently, Isaias was featured in Vogue alongside Billie Eilish and other youth climate activists, discussing food equity and plant-based food systems.
LGBTQ Outdoor Summit- Foster connections, community, and LGBTQ+ leadership in inclusive outdoor experiences. The Venture Out Project- Join backpacking trips and inclusive workshops for LGBTQ+ community. Out There Adventures- Outdoor programs for LGBTQ+ youth to explore nature and their identity. Queer Nature- Offers nature-based skillshares serving mostly the LGBTQ+ community. OUT for Sustainability- Creates a space for collaborative efforts in building climate resilience and environmental justice within LGBTQIA+ communities. GLSEN- Educator resources to enhance curriculum and promote LGBTQ+ visibility in the classroom.
Join us in nurturing a generation that will make a difference for our planet and future generations.
