By Johanna Schweiss,
USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator
On Sunday, October 20th, cyclists and walkers will gather in Soulard at 9 a.m. for the USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter’s Fourth Annual ECORIDE. And while participants will enjoy a day of pedaling or touring the historic Soulard neighborhood, the impact of this event will be felt by members of our community for much longer.
Proceeds from the ECORIDE support the Chapter’s Scholarship fund, which provides green building education and training to emerging and young professionals who may not normally have access. With the help of our generous sponsors and riders, our 2012 ride raised $4,000, allowing us to fund two scholarships to the USGBC’s Greening the Heartland Conference and three scholarships covering the LEED Green Associate Exam fees and prep course.
Greening the Heartland is the Midwest’s premier conference on green building and sustainability programs. One 2012 scholarship recipient said, “I can honestly say that my experience at the Conference was amazing-it was such a great opportunity to learn so much about sustainability and meet some really interesting and knowledgeable people along the way!” This year’s conference in Chicago was co-located with the Building Chicago conference, providing scholarship recipients with additional educational opportunities.
The LEED professional credentials demonstrate an individual’s knowledge, experience, and credibility in the green building field. Becoming a LEED Green Associate signifies a solid, current understanding of green building principles and practices. Our scholarships include free admission to the Chapter’s comprehensive Exam Prep Course and cover all exam fees.
So as you plan your weekends this fall, remember the ECORIDE on Sunday, October 20th! We have several rides to choose from: 8 miles to Lafayette Square, 23 miles up the Riverfront Trail or 54 miles to Jefferson Barracks Park. For those of you who prefer two feet over two wheels, we’re also offering a walking tour of Soulard this year All will start and end at BWorks in Soulard at 2414 Menard, St. Louis, MO 63104.
For more information or to register, visit www.usgbc-mogateway.org/scholarships. Your nominal participation fee will go to support our 2014 scholarships, so grab your helmet or put on your walking shoes and join us!
After the EcoRide, you still have time to stop by the Healthy Planet Natural Living Expo at the Webster Groves Recreation Complex in Webster Groves. The Expo runs until 4 pm. Free admission after 3 pm.