Wondering what you can do to address climate change and social inequities? Are you looking to make a difference here and now?

Sustainable Tompkins is looking for several volunteers to help us over the next two months with a number of events and media outreach related to our Seal the Cracks campaign to promote the Finger Lakes Climate Fund – our local carbon offset fund.

We need your help to make a big splash! We will be hosting a variety of fun events, and doing lots of outreach to local folks. We would like to see carbon offsetting be as much a part of the Ithaca lifestyle as recycling!

We use carbon-offset donations to fund energy efficiency projects that would not otherwise be possible in lower-income households, increasing their comfort and security while providing local jobs.  These grants fund insulation, air sealing, energy efficient heating equipment, and other upgrades to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.

Created in 2010, the Climate Fund has awarded $26,384 in grants to 11 local households, 1 business, and 1 nonprofit.  Typically, these matching grants leverage about five times more investment in energy improvements by filling the gap in financing.

Through events and publicity during our focused carbon offset week, October 24-30, we have set a goal to raise $10,000 to help a minimum of five more families in need. We believe it is essential to ensure everyone in our community is able to make the transition to a clean energy future.

If you’d like to help with an event, coach a youth team, or help us reach a variety of local residents and businesses, please get in touch! Some specific jobs available:

Social Media Maven – take charge of our facebook event page and twitter feed to announce new offset commitments, event updates, and partners joining in the campaign.

Film Screening Organizer – we plan to present the Ithaca premiere of This Changes Everything with Naomi Klein, followed by a reception and party for our campaign partners.

Events Ambassador – represent the Climate Fund at various public events this fall and help us get the word out.

Volunteer Coordinator – keep the rest of us organized and showing up on time!

Email gay@sustainabletompkins.org or call 272-1720.