Record-breaking heat, severe drought, raging wildfires, dense smoke, intense floods, devastating tornados: every part of the country – and much of the world – is being hit this summer with life-taking extreme weather of one kind or another. While no person or community is safe from its effects, “the most severe harms from climate change fall disproportionately upon underserved communities who are least able to prepare for, and recover from, heat waves, poor air quality, flooding, and other impacts,” according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Since we published an article last year urging all nonprofits, regardless of mission, to consider their action steps on climate change, there’s some reason for hope. For example, among hundreds of billions in new federal climate spending enacted since our article ran, a new federal grant program, Renew America’s Nonprofits, will provide $45 million in funding to reduce energy use in buildings owned and operated by 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Applications are due on August 3 from 501(c)(3) nonprofits to become Prime Recipients (which will receive the grant funds and subaward to other nonprofits and partners). If your nonprofit qualifies for support, it’s not too late to join the “Teaming List” on the main program page to connect with others in your community and potential Prime Recipients. You can also find FAQs there. For application information, recorded webinars, and contact information, visit the Funding Opportunity Announcement page. These funds will support nonprofit building owners in creating healthier spaces, reducing emissions, and lowering their energy bills so the savings can be redirected to their mission-critical work. |