Community Organizing Academy
Advocate for a stronger community.
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.
Estimated Time
Every Thursday (9 Weeks)
6 – 7:30 pm
Enroll By
Application Deadline Mon, Oct 8, 2023
Thanksgiving Break
Skills Required
Open to individuals eager to make a positive impact on their community.
What you will learn at Community Organizin 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.
This Course Is For You, IF…
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
Section 1: INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Understanding the fundamentals of environmental justice, its principles, and its significance in creating equitable communities.
Section 2: ENVIRONMENTAL RACISM & DISPROPORTIONATE IMPACTS
Investigating how systemic racism contributes to environmental disparities and the disproportionate effects on marginalized communities.
Section 3: COMMUNITY ORGANIZING & ADVOCACY STRATEGIES
Acquiring effective strategies for community organizing and advocating for environmental justice issues.
Section 4: CLIMATE CHANGE AND POLICY RESPONSES
Discussing the impact of climate change on communities and evaluating policies designed to address these challenges.
Section 5: AIR POLLUTION & HEALTH IMPACTS
Exploring the health and environmental consequences of air pollution and understanding related health disparities.
Section 6: WATER QUALITY & ACCESS
Delving into issues related to water quality, access, and the importance of clean water for communities.
Section 7: LAND USE, ZONING & DISPLACEMENT
Understanding the connection between land use policies, zoning regulations, and the displacement of vulnerable communities.
Section 8: ENGAGING WITH POLICY AND DECISION MAKERS
Developing skills to effectively engage with policymakers and decision-makers in advocating for environmental justice.
Section 9: ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH & TOXIC EXPOSURE
Examining the health impacts of exposure to environmental toxins and the importance of reducing such exposure.
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.
Join COA and Be the Change for Your Community.
We transform lives by connecting people to resources and opportunities.
