We want to share four upcoming opportunities (including funding!) to engage in and strengthen environmental health and justice efforts in the Greater Rochester region.

1. Participate in a Survey on Environmental Health Priorities

Are you concerned about your health and the health of the environment? Your voice matters! We are conducting a brief survey to gather insights on environmental health issues such as air, soil, and water quality, the impacts of climate change, natural disasters, and access to safe food and housing. The information will guide community-level priorities and support research and action planning.

• The survey is anonymous, and most questions are optional.
• Data will be shared with the public via rochesterenvironment.com and with the University of Rochester Environmental Health Sciences Center.

Survey Link: Complete the Survey
Learn more about this project here.

2. Join a Discussion on Resources for Organizing Around Environmental Health

We are hosting three community discussions to explore resources for community engagement and organizing efforts around environmental health. These discussions will help strengthen local initiatives by connecting people to guiding resources and building capacity in the region. Resources will be made available on the Hub.

Meeting Dates and Times:

• Tuesday, October 22nd | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM | On Zoom https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81400283363?pwd=01auMBdiBptoS99HRYo2loa8legbb6.1
• Wednesday, November 6th | 4:00-5:30 | REP Office | 224 Mount Hope Ave.
• Tuesday, November 19th | 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Flower City NOIRE House | 383 West Ave.

Join us to share ideas and collaborate on ways to enhance environmental health and justice work in our communities. Please RSVP using this link. 

3. Explore the EPA’s Thriving Communities Grant

The EPA’s Thriving Communities Grant is now open, offering an exciting opportunity to support initiatives that advance environmental and public health in under-resourced communities. Eligible projects should address climate change and environmental justice issues, develop strategic community-based plans in response to these challenges, and implement these plans to foster growth and resilience in historically disadvantaged communities. If you’re interested in applying or learning more about this opportunity, click the link below to explore eligibility, deadlines, and how your project might benefit from this funding.

Learn More: EPA Thriving Communities Grant

4. Apply for a Capacity Building Project

The University of Rochester Environmental Health Sciences Center (EHSC) Community Engagement Core (CEC) works with community partners to develop science-based solutions to environmental problems. The CEC is continuing the Capacity Building Project program in 2025 to provide funding for local organizations to grow their engagement in environmental health. The EHSC will provide up to $10,000 for one or two Capacity Building Projects in 2025. Nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply. Projects should address issues of environmental health disparities in the greater Rochester region. Learn more on the UR website.

These opportunities reflect our shared commitment to creating a healthier, more equitable environment for everyone in the Greater Rochester area. We hope you’ll join us by participating in the survey, attending a roundtable, or exploring funding opportunities available to our region.

Thank you for being part of this essential work!

Peace,
Rochester Ecology Partners
(585) 851-1648 | contact@rocecology.org