Corvallis Sustainability Coalition

Overview

The Corvallis Sustainability Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering an ecologically, economically, and socially healthy city and county. It operates as a network of partner organizations and individuals, including businesses, nonprofit organizations, faith communities, educational institutions, and government entities. The mission is to accelerate progress toward a sustainable future by promoting environmental quality, social equity, and economic vitality through collaborative efforts.

History

Established in 2008, the Coalition developed the Community Sustainability Action Plan in response to the Corvallis City Council's initiative for a community-wide sustainability effort. This plan was a result of extensive community engagement involving several town hall meetings and volunteer contributions. The plan has undergone revisions, notably in 2013 and 2018, and was renamed "Community Sustainability: A Framework for Action."

Structure and Activities

The Coalition is structured around 12 action teams, each focusing on specific areas related to sustainability, including economic vitality. The Economic Vitality team works toward creating a sustainable economy by supporting local businesses and promoting environmentally-friendly practices. Key projects include the "Buy Local First" initiative and the "Saving Green" program, which assists small to medium-sized workplaces in adopting sustainable practices.

Community Outreach and Engagement

The Coalition engages in extensive community outreach through events like the annual Sustainability Fair and Town Hall meetings. These events serve as platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and promoting sustainability efforts among community members. The organization also supports initiatives like the Neighborhood Roots program, which aims to increase shade equity by planting native trees in residential areas. Additionally, the Coalition fosters an inclusive community by co-sponsoring cultural events that promote understanding and collaboration with local indigenous cultures.

Governance and Recognition

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition is recognized for its contributions to environmental education and community development. It provides a collaborative framework for addressing sustainability challenges through democratic decision-making processes.

NTEE Code and IRS Filing Requirements

The Coalition is classified under the NTEE code for Environmental Education and Outdoor Survival Programs (C60) and is required to file an IRS Form 990 or 990-EZ annually.

Impact and Ongoing Work

The Corvallis Sustainability Coalition continues to play a significant role in promoting sustainable practices and community engagement in Corvallis and Benton County. Its efforts aim to create a resilient and thriving community through active collaboration and innovative solutions.