Community Organizing Academy
Looking for a stronger community? Create lasting change today.
The Community Organizing Academy (COA) is a program empowering East Harris County residents to advocate for environmental justice and influence policies in their community. By getting the community involved, together, we can make a lasting difference in the places we call home.
Estimated Time
The program length is being updated. Further details will be provided soon.
Enroll By
Enrollment dates will be announced soon. Stay tuned for updates!
Skills Required
Open to individuals eager to make a positive impact on their community.
What you will learn at the Community Organizing Academy?
Course details
Embark on a transformative journey with our course that equips you to tackle environmental justice issues head-on in East Harris County. Learn the art of organizing, master the skills of advocacy, and mobilize community support for change that matters.
Course Benefits
This course provides professional development, networking, a stipend, and the opportunity to contribute to a community project for social change.
Who is the right person for this course?
Community Champion
Passionate about community-driven change and ready to champion environmental justice, embodying the power of collective effort for a better tomorrow.
Future Shaper
Excited to connect with like-minded individuals for positive impact and idea-sharing, working collaboratively towards shaping a better future for the community.
Environmental Justice Advocate
Eager to learn and contribute to a more just and sustainable East Harris County, showing dedication to the causes that protect both people and the planet.
Effective Change Agent
Motivated to gain practical skills and insights, harnessing the necessary tools and knowledge to become an influential advocate for change.
SYLLABUS
About the Course
Week 1: Introduction to Environmental Justice
Overview of environmental justice principles and historical context.
Week 2: Environmental Racism & Disproportionate Impacts
Examination of how environmental racism affects communities and the uneven distribution of environmental hazards.
Week 3: Community Organizing & Advocacy Strategies
Introduction of the Capstone Project and strategies for community organizing and advocacy.
Week 4: Climate Change and Policy Responses
Discussion on climate change and crafting policy memos for environmental policy recommendations.
Week 5: Air Pollution & Health Impacts
Exploration of the health impacts of air pollution.
Week 6: Water Quality & Access
Analysis of water quality issues and access to clean water.
Week 7: Land Use, Zoning & Displacement
Study of land use, zoning laws, and their impact on displacement.
Week 8: Engaging with Policy and Decision Makers
Strategies for engaging with policymakers and decision-makers.
Week 9: Environmental Health & Toxic Exposure
Examination of environmental health issues and toxic exposure.
Week 10: Capstone Project
Program Offerings
Class Content
Content Co-created with insight
Real-world projects
Project Reviews
Student Services
Real-Time Support
Alumni Community
Resources
Network Opportunities
Tips & Exercises
Your Journey Starts Here
What You’ll Learn
Environmental Justice
Understanding the core principles of environmental justice and its impact in East Harris County.
Community Organizing
Developing practical skills in community organizing, advocacy strategies, and effective communication.
Policy Engagement
Building a strong foundation in policy engagement and mobilizing community support.
Interactive Workshops
Engage in hands-on workshops to explore environmental justice concepts, community organizing strategies, and advocacy techniques.
Community Action Projects
Collaborate on projects to address local environmental injustices and create positive change in your community.
Mentorship and Networking
Connect with experienced advocates for mentorship and networking to enhance your environmental justice efforts.
All Our Programs Include
Real-world projects from industry experts.
In-depth workshops on environmental justice fundamentals and community organizing strategies.
Real-time support
Skill-building sessions in effective communication, policy engagement, and advocacy techniques
Networking
Build a network for advancing environmental justice in your community.
Mentorship
Connect with experienced advocates through mentorship opportunities.
Weeks 1-3: Introduction to Community Building and SDOH
Overview of SDOH, identifying community needs, and building partnerships.
Weeks 4-6: State and Local Government 101
Understanding local government, community advocacy, and civic engagement.
Weeks 7-9: Leadership and Communication Skills
Effective communication strategies, conflict resolution, and leadership development.
Weeks 10-12: Project Planning and Management
Introduction to project management, project planning, and evaluation.
Weeks 13-15: Project Budgeting
Learning budgeting techniques and resource allocation.
Weeks 16-18: Policy Advocacy and Civic Engagement
Policy advocacy (TBD) and breaks for holidays.
Weeks 19-21: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Introduction to DEI, addressing equity issues, and cultural competence.
Weeks 22-24: Community Engagement and Advocacy
Community engagement strategies, public speaking, and (TBD).
Week 25: Final Group Project and Graduation Ceremony
Contact Us
empoweru@eastharriscounty.org
Join COA and Be the Change for Your Community.
We transform lives by connecting people to resources and opportunities.
