I often talk about Sustainability. In fact, it is one of OutGrowth's five Value Pillars, meaning it drives our daily work and projects. Fully understanding the concept of sustainability is complex, however, because it is comprised of multiple layers. In a rapidly-changing reality, we as a society are looking to create a sustainable life balance in the midst of a pandemic, a sustainable economy, and even more pressing, a sustainable justice system that values the lives of black and brown communities. At OutGrowth, we have a multi-faceted approach to sustainability in the work that we do. We are deeply committed to: - Sustainability at the environmental level, as indicated through our partnerships with local farms, green spaces and outdoor projects.
- Sustainable business development. This means that we want to support local, purpose-driven businesses so that they may be successful in their missions, getting access to the resources necessary to make progress a reality.
- Personal and professional sustainability at the individual level, meaning that we structure our programs and curriculum to empower others to build lives and careers that are aligned with their values, enabling them to create their own sustainable and impact-driven futures.
- Cultural and economic sustainability, preserving and uplifting communities, projects and populations who deserve a bigger voice, and a more prominent seat at the table.
This is why we are so excited to highlight two incredible leaders in this issue, both of whom have made huge strides in our broader sustainability landscape. Atiya Wells is committed to building a sustainable non-profit to support local, natural spaces in Baltimore, all while providing opportunities for people of color. Kelsey O'Neill recently tackled a major team project to build out a mentorship program for women and girls in Puerto Rico, an initiative done in conjunction with the Friends of Puerto Rico, who also collaborates with the local agriculture scene. In addition to sharing the invaluable work of our two contributing writers, we also leave you with key resources that will help you to begin (or continue) building a sustainable life, at every level. Grow out with us. |
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OutGrowth Today Our Monthly Blogger Spotlight + OutGrowth's Top Tip for June The En Root Scoop Sustainability at Every Level Our Top Ted Talk, Podcast and Book for Taking Next Steps |
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I was born in Newark, NJ in March of 1988. In 2012, I went on my first hike in Frederick, MD. Growing up, I had preconceived notions that nature was only accessible through extended trips to far-off locations. As far as I knew, there was no nature in Newark. |
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I expected to spend part of the winter break during my MBA program changing the world. With 15 students and faculty from Carey Business School, I was going to spend a week in Puerto Rico building the next generation of women business leaders. |
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| | Monthly Blogger Spotlight Community Over Competition by Sarahbeth Ramsey 'I think that the more we lift each other up, teach, and help others grow, the more we are rewarded. Competition should really only be with ourselves. Can we be better than we were in the past? How can we help others not to make the same mistakes we did? That's how we build bridges to others.' Sarahbeth Ramsey is the Owner of a Social Media Marketing Boutique called The Boho Marketing Co. She's from Baltimore, and is a recent University of Baltimore MBA grad, who loves to travel frequently, and learn more about people and businesses. Almost equal to her love of travel is her love of dogs, particularly her dog, Ella. | | |
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| | OutGrowth's Top Tip On Sustainability: Getting Started At OutGrowth, we believe that creating a sustainable world is complex, and involves a deep commitment to keeping our eyes open, assessing the landscape, and identifying gaps. Noticing these key gaps - whether that involves identifying an opportunity to be more conscious of food waste as you live and work at home during a pandemic, or taking a more active role in our nation's pressing political and justice issues - is the first step. OutGrowth Recommends: Start Small First, identify an area of sustainability that speaks to you, and then, see how you can leverage your position, community, talents or connections to begin to make bite-sized impact. All big change begins with a small step, so begin your first one today. | | |
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"I dream of a world where geography classes teach about the climate crisis as this one great challenge that was won by people like you and me," says climate activist Luisa Neubauer. With Greta Thunberg, Neubauer helped initiate "Fridays For Future," the momentous international school strike movement that protests the lack of action on the climate crisis. She shares four first steps that anyone, regardless of age, can take to become a climate activist. "This is not a job for a single generation. This is a job for humanity," she says.' | | |
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