By Johanna Schweiss,
USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator
As the U.S. Green Building Council -Missouri Gateway Chapter celebrated our 15 year anniversary in 2016, we had many discussions what our next 15 years of work would bring. We have big plans to continue our work to transform the built environment, but we can’t do it alone! Whatever your background or experience, I invite you to join us in 2017 as we strive to make every building a green building.
Deepen Your Knowledge
Each year in January, the USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter announces our extensive annual educational catalog. Our lineup contains something for everyone: introductory level programs, in-depth seminars that dive deep on specific sustainability topics, full-day continuing education blitzes, and LEED credential exam preparation courses.
In 2017, we’ll examine important cutting edge green topics like materials transparency and new sustainability rating systems like SITES and the WELL Building Rating System. And we’ll explore some of the important issues that can make a difference in the success of sustainable building construction and operations: maintenance, project management, and construction administration. We will tour green buildings, socialize and build relationships, and celebrate recent exceptional projects.
Those interested in beginning to learn about sustainability and green building, those interested in deepening their existing knowledge, and those looking to keep up with the latest, cutting-edge green building topics should plan to join us for educational seminars in 2017!
Get Hands-On
We have volunteer opportunities for those of all backgrounds and levels of expertise. Consider getting involved with a committee or community project, and put your passion for green practices and sustainability to work!
The Green Schools Quest challenges public and private schools to devise and implement, with the help of green mentors, the most creative, effective, and no or low cost sustainability practices for their schools. 47 schools are participating in the 2016-17 Green Schools Quest, and are currently implementing their sustainability project – from water conservation to energy reduction, from butterfly and food gardens to recycling – with the help of our green mentors. Applications for schools and mentors to participate in the 2017 – 2018 Green Schools Quest will open in April. Consider getting involved in the coming year!
Our Community Build programs support non-profit, faith-based, and local government buildings as they move along the path to sustainability. Get in touch to learn how you can help your place of worship, your city hall, or your favorite organization green their building.
We’ll be announcing our 2017 educational lineup, sharing our plans for the upcoming year, and showcasing our volunteer opportunities at our annual State of the Chapter & Social on January 10. Join us to connect with Chapter members and leaders, learn about ways you can engage with us in the year to come, and contribute to our work to create a positive, green future for our community.
Learn more and register online at www.usgbc-mogateway.org.