Skip to content

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

The Changes in the Air Program: Empowering BIPOC Communities for Climate Justice

The Changes in the Air Program: Empowering BIPOC Communities for Climate Justice

The Changes in the Air program is a vital cornerstone in the journey toward a just transition.By establishing robust, long-term data infrastructure, we empower BIPOC communities in Portland to take ownership and drive action in mitigating and adapting to climate change.

Picture: Will, a mentor and now employee for ELSO guiding a student scientist how to create a air-quality monitor.

Addressing Data Gaps

Our initiative directly tackles the data void surrounding climate-change-related air pollutants prevalent in Portland’s BIPOC, and low-income neighborhoods. These pollutants include:

Addressing Data Gaps

Black Carbon (BC) Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) Particulate Matter (PM) Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) Other Emissions from Transportation and Industry

Community-Centric Approach

Through community engagement, we collaborate with Black-identifying youth and adult community members. We guide them in creating air quality monitoring sensors, installing environmental monitoring devices, and utilizing resulting data for advocacy efforts. Together, we develop a localized air quality model and implement pilot projects identified by the community.

A Holistic Impact

Beyond environmental justice, our project yields an additional benefit: a Black community-owned data platform. This platform serves as a hub for data storage, analysis, and visualization, generating revenue while amplifying community voices.

Join us in shaping a cleaner, more equitable future—one breath at a time.

Green Workforce Academy: Cultivating Environmental Leaders

The Green Workforce Academy (GWA) is a transformative paid 5-week program designed for Black and Native-identified community members aged 18 to 25. For those who may not pursue higher education, the GWA offers a unique path to family-sustaining careers.

What We Offer
What We Offer
Environmental Literacy: Dive into 120 classroom hours, equipping yourself with essential knowledge about sustainability, conservation, and green practices. Hands-On Skill Development: Spend 80 field hours immersed in practical experiences. From tree planting to sustainable construction, you’ll gain tangible skills that matter.
Our Focus
Our Focus
Equity and Opportunity: The GWA prioritizes Black and Native American young adults. We believe that everyone deserves access to meaningful work and a brighter future. Training and Apprenticeship: Prepare for success in the construction and green building sector. Our training programs lead to apprenticeship enrollment, job placement, and long-term job retention.
A Collaborative Coalition
The GWA thrives on collaboration. We proudly partner with: NAYA: Guided by their expertise, we create pathways to success. Ecotrust: Together, we build a sustainable and resilient workforce. Self Enhancement Inc.: Empowering youth through education and opportunity. Wisdom of the Elders: Honoring ancestral wisdom and fostering growth. See more: Ecotrust - Green Workforce Academy
SEE MORE

For more information, reach out to our Workforce Development Director, Ayanna Nance, at Ayanna@theblueprintfoundation.org. Join us in shaping a greener, more inclusive future—one where every individual thrives.

Connecting Canopies: Cultivating Equitable Urban Forests

The Connecting Canopies initiative unites BIPOC community members, private industry partners, and governmental representatives in a transformative effort to revolutionize tree planting and maintenance. Our mission? To ensure an equitable distribution of trees across the region, reaping the myriad public health benefits they offer.

A Collaborative Coalition

We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with esteemed partners: The Blueprint Foundation, The Nature Conservancy Oregon, and The Intertwine Alliance. Each organization brings unique expertise to the table, informing and enriching our collective impact.

Empowering the Workforce- Blueprint’s contribution

At the heart of our endeavor lies workforce development. Through a 8 month paid internship, we empower young adults to champion our cause.

Here’s what interns focus on:

*Social and Environmental Impact: By promoting urban forestry, regenerative agriculture and environmental justice in BIPOC communities, they directly address disparities in access to tree-related and planting benefits. Interns work enhances air quality, moderates temperatures, and uplifts mental well-being for residents. *Learn and Collaborate: Interns engage with cross-sector partners, immersing themselves in community engagement, urban forestry, and environmental justice. Learning from experts and fellow interns, honing science-based decision-making and policy development skills. *Hands-On Experience: Connecting Canopies offers field-based opportunities. Interns plant trees, maintain green spaces, and contribute to food cultivation. *Networking and Skill Development: They focus on forging connections with professionals and community leaders. By developing project management, communication, and environmental advocacy skills, interns are career-ready by the end of the cohort.

Get Involved

As a champion of urban forests and equity, you’re part of a movement with lasting impact. Advocate for better policies, nurture green spaces, and shape a healthier, more inclusive cityscape. For more information on getting involved with policy and engagement, contact Sergio at sergio.lopez@tnc.org.

Are you a young adult or know of someone who might be interested in becoming an intern for Connecting Canopies? Email our Workforce Development Director Ayanna at Ayanna@theblueprintfoundation.org. 

Empowering the Workforce- Blueprint’s contribution

At the heart of our endeavor lies workforce development. Through a 10 month paid internship, we empower young adults to champion our cause.

Here’s what you’ll focus on:

Social and Environmental Impact: By promoting tree planting and care in BIPOC communities, you directly address disparities in access to tree-related and planting benefits. Your work enhances air quality, moderates temperatures, and uplifts mental well-being for residents. Learn and Collaborate: Engage with cross-sector partners, immersing yourself in community engagement, urban forestry, and environmental justice. Learn from experts and fellow interns, honing science-based decision-making and policy development skills. Hands-On Experience: Connecting Canopies offers field-based opportunities. You’ll plant trees, maintain green spaces, and contribute to food cultivation. Networking and Skill Development: Forge connections with professionals and community leaders. Develop project management, communication, and environmental advocacy skills.

As a champion of urban forests and equity, you’re part of a movement with lasting impact. Advocate for better policies, nurture green spaces, and shape a healthier, more inclusive cityscape. For more information on getting involved with policy and engagement, contact Theress Huang at Theresa@theintertwine.org.

Are you a young adult or know of someone who might be interested in becoming an intern for Connecting Canopies? Email our Workforce Development Director Ayanna at Ayanna@theblueprintfoundation.org. 

As the seasons turn, we honor the past, tend to the present, and sow seeds for a resilient future. Join us in cultivating a legacy that transcends time—a legacy where trees whisper stories, air heals, and communities flourish. Visit the Connecting Canopies Coaltion web page to learn more.
LEARN MORE