Green Gives Back in Georgia

USGBC Emerging Professionals from the Georgia Chapter galvanized around the idea of “Green Gives Back” this year with a fundraiser to support the Project Haiti Orphanage and Children’s Center. Using the theme of “Green Gives Back: Flavors of Haiti,” Emerging Professionals and volunteers from the chapter’s Savannah branch organized a Haitian themed gala, collaborating with ten local restaurants to provide tastings of Caribbean-inspired dishes, an art auction featuring original art by Haitian artist Alix Baptiste, and book signings of “I See Colors," a Haitian children's book by author Joan Kornblatt. A local steel drummer serenaded the crowd of more than 125 guests, who contributed over $3,600 collectively for the cause. The event was a huge success for Project Haiti and the chapter, which was able to forge new relationships in its territory around a positive mission. Visit the Project Haiti page to learn more about the orphanage and children’s center.

Pleased with the wonderful response to this Green Gives Back event, the Savannah branch has decided to make this an annual fundraiser, with future proceeds benefiting likeminded local causes. The chapter challenges other USGBC chapters to think about ways they can give back to their communities through similar events. The potential for partnerships, outreach to new members and positive media attention would benefit any chapter.

If you are interested in pursuing a similar event, USGBC Emerging Professionals may be able to help! USGBC Emerging Professionals are a dedicated group of young professionals who work to create a network of leaders in the field of sustainability. They work closely with chapter leaders to grow professionally through hands-on experience, networking opportunities and volunteer projects that improve neighborhoods, mobilize green building advocates and raise local awareness about sustainable living.

Many thanks to Jessica Pedigo, USGBC Georgia Chapter, for her contributions to this article.