Climate Solutions Accelerator Celebrates 10 Years of Transforming the Finger Lakes Region with Bold Climate Action
ROCHESTER, NY - The Climate Solutions Accelerator is celebrating a decade of driving climate action in the Genesee-Finger Lakes region, empowering communities, and reshaping local policies. The anniversary celebration kicked off with a high-energy event in downtown Rochester, attended by community leaders, partner organizations, and climate advocates.
“This milestone wouldn't have been possible without the deep and sustained commitment of our staff, supporters, and volunteers,” said Abby McHugh-Grifa, Executive Director of Climate Solutions Accelerator. “We have built a powerful and inclusive local climate movement and developed programs and resources that benefit our community in countless ways. It’s a testament to what’s possible when we work together and just the beginning of what we can achieve in the next decade.”
On September 21, 2014, a dedicated group of local climate activists traveled to New York City to participate in a massive climate march, returning with a renewed determination to channel their energy into meaningful action for the nine-county Genesee-Finger Lakes region. Since then, the Climate Solutions Accelerator has grown into a respected nonprofit with a staff of 17 and a $2.2 million annual budget. Today, the organization plays a pivotal role in shaping climate policy at both state and local levels, offering a range of innovative programs that empower individuals and organizations to adopt practical, locally-relevant climate solutions. As climate urgency grows globally, the Accelerator’s decade of experience offers a vital model for grassroots mobilization that can inspire communities across the country.
As part of the 10th anniversary, Climate Solutions Accelerator launched its “10 Ways to Celebrate” initiative, encouraging individuals and organizations to take meaningful climate action throughout the year. The initiative includes steps like electrifying homes or businesses, joining community solar programs, reducing car reliance, and engaging in local activities such as Color Your Community Green, volunteering, and attending events like Green Drinks and the Climate Solutions Summit. Supporters are also encouraged to share personal climate stories and testimonials to inspire others.
The 10th anniversary celebration served as an opportunity to express gratitude to the individuals and organizations that have played pivotal roles in supporting the Climate Solutions Accelerator. Recognition awards were presented to the following for their invaluable contributions to the organization’s mission:
Strategic Visionary Award: Simeon Banister, President & CEO, Rochester Area Community Foundation
Climate Media Champion Award: Evan Dawson, Host, WXXI’s Connections
Enduring Advocate Award: Sue Hughes-Smith, Monroe County Legislature
Behind the Scenes Mastermind Award: Pattie Sunwoo, Former Climate Solutions Accelerator Board Member, Co-Owner Bodymind Float Center
“Ten years ago, the Climate Solutions Accelerator said, ‘I Do!’ to taking on the challenges posed by climate change and six years ago, I made that same commitment—driven to protect the futures of my two young children,” said Akilah Banister, Board President of Climate Solutions Accelerator. “Today, I say ‘I Do’ with even greater conviction because the stakes have never been higher. As parents, leaders, and community members, we must ask ourselves: Will we say ‘I Do’ to taking action, to protecting the next generation, and to building a climate-resilient future? If we don’t, our children will hold us accountable for our inaction. This anniversary is not just a celebration—it’s a call to action. The time to act is now. Will you join us?”
The Climate Solutions Accelerator invites the media and community to join this powerful movement. Contact us today to learn more about our 10th anniversary initiatives, or to schedule an interview with Executive Director Abby McHugh-Grifa to discuss the impact of our decade-long work and future plans for a climate-resilient Finger Lakes. The celebration will continue throughout the coming year with various events and initiatives designed to engage the community and foster collaboration. For more information about the Climate Solutions Accelerator and its 10th anniversary milestone, visit climategfl.org/10years
Contact: Theresa Church, Communications Manager
Phone: 585-461-1023
Email: theresa@climategfl.org
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About the Climate Solutions Accelerator:
The Climate Solutions Accelerator is an inclusive, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and facilitating large-scale climate mobilization in the nine-county Genesee-Finger Lakes Region. Our mission is to create a healthier, more equitable, and regenerative community by catalyzing local efforts to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions and address the effects of climate change. We work with organizations and individuals to expedite climate progress by supporting the development of effective leaders, channeling their energy toward impactful local solutions, and removing barriers to progress. We bring together stakeholders across sectors to collaboratively define and advance intersectional climate action priorities for our region, using a collective impact approach. We are firmly committed to ensuring that all members of our community have opportunities to benefit from and participate in climate action at the local level.
For more information, visit climategfl.org