Green Umbrella

Overview

Green Umbrella is a U.S. nonprofit organization serving as the regional sustainability alliance of Greater Cincinnati. Founded in 1998, it focuses on enhancing environmental health and vitality through cross-sector collaboration.

Mission and Activities

Green Umbrella's mission is to lead collaborative efforts, incubate ideas, and catalyze solutions that create a resilient, sustainable region for all residents. The organization believes in ensuring access to trails, greenspace, healthy food, climate-safe neighborhoods, and equitable opportunities for all residents.

Green Umbrella has been instrumental in several key initiatives:

• Tri-State Trails: Since its launch, over 30 miles of trails and 63 miles of on-road bikeways have been constructed through partnerships with over 150 collaborators.
• Greater Cincinnati Regional Food Policy Council: This initiative has facilitated local food sourcing among dozens of institutional partners, with regional food hubs generating over $1.5 million in sales.
• Cincinnati 2030 District: Over 300 buildings have committed to reducing energy, water, and transportation-related emissions by 50% by 2030.

History

Green Umbrella was born out of environmental concerns in the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana region. Initially focused on preserving greenspace, it expanded its mission in 2011 to become a comprehensive sustainability alliance. Key milestones include:

• 1991: The Hamilton County Environmental Action Commission was founded by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, laying foundational efforts for Green Umbrella.
• 1995: The Hamilton County Environmental Priorities Project was initiated, leading to the formal launch of Green Umbrella in 1998.
• 2004: Developed and distributed the first regional "Greenprint Map," identifying critical corridors and habitats.
• 2010: Hosted the Great Outdoor Weekend for the first time, an annual event showcasing outdoor recreation.
• 2011: Adopted the collective impact model and formed inaugural Action Teams.
• 2013: Became the non-profit sponsor of Cincinnati's first bike-share program, precursor to Cincinnati RedBike.
• 2015: Launched Tri-State Trails and the Greater Cincinnati Regional Food Policy Council.
• 2018: Established the Cincinnati 2030 District.
• 2020: Introduced a Climate Action program focused on aiding local governments in sustainability and equity efforts.

Membership and Benefits

Green Umbrella offers membership options to nonprofits, governments, businesses, and educational institutions. Members benefit from:

• Training and Networking: Access to workshops, member directories, and networking opportunities.
• Marketing Opportunities: Highlighting successes in newsletters and social media, job recruitment support.
• Resources and Technical Support: Funding tracking, sustainability tools, collaborative grant proposals.

The organization provides financial assistance to ensure inclusivity for grassroots and equity-based organizations. While individual memberships are not offered, individuals can contribute through donations or participate in events and community initiatives.