GVMC Welcomes New MI Healthy Climate Corps Member.

GVMC/LGROW is excited to welcome our newest team member through the MI Healthy Climate Corps program. This Americorps initiative engages young leaders in climate action projects to support Michigan's goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. We’re thrilled to have Damaris join us as Climate Action Planner, bringing her passion for sustainability and environmental justice.

Here is an introduction from Damaris:

Hello! I am honored and excited to continue the amazing work that GVMC has been doing, as their new Climate Action Planner. I chose GVMC because I believe they offer a unique opportunity to connect communities with valuable resources through their strong relationships with existing partners within the coalition. I am most excited about the ability to connect with and learn more about the hard work that community members in Kent, Ionia, Ottawa and Montcalm counties are doing as it relates to climate action, as well as learning more about their personal journeys. These relationships will help us to develop the West Michigan Healthy Climate Plan.

More about me: I am adopted from Guatemala, and I grew up in Ypsilanti, MI. I will graduate in April 2025 with a Bachelor's in Political Science and Sustainability Studies at Western Michigan University. My journey here is shaped by my strong belief in the connection between social justice and environmental sustainability. My passion for environmental justice grew out of my exposure to social justice movements I saw and was involved with during high school, like March for Our Lives and the youth climate movement. I can’t wait to apply this passion in my new role, and I look forward to making strong connections within the community!