To ensure our WECR Caucus Core Members–many of whom have limited resources–are able to sustain their critical work for the long term and engagement with the WECR Caucus, in 2023, we distributed Alignment and Movement Building Grants of up to $25,000 each. This initiative is designed to support Core Members advancing direct impact for frontline communities and empowering communities from the ground up. Learn more about our 2023 changemakers and their work:

Giniw Collective: Giniw Collective will be welcoming their first cohort of advocates seeking to internalize and implement Indigenous-based values inside systems, outside systems and all of the in-between. Advocates will gain first-hand skills within federal policy spaces and bring a much-needed perspective from their communities.

Green Latinos: Green Latinos is developing story maps that help connect personal stories with federal policies with the aim of providing examples of systems and efforts already occurring in Latine communities that address issues of water equity and shortcomings. Included will be a call to action relevant to the local community and highlighting tangible steps to advocate for water equity and climate resilience nationally. 

Nuestra Casa: Along with student researchers, Nuestra Casa is creating a community education campaign for the Romic cleanup and groundwater education in East Palo Alto which will work with the community, as well as sharing any advocacy opportunities out to community members. Nuestra Casa will build out their existing relationship with EPA and use information gained to educate and inform the community on the state of the Romic clean up site.

Rio Grande International Study Center: Rio Grande International Study Center (RGISC) is launching the groundbreaking “Laredo Riverfront Neighborhood Alliance,” a community-centered program targeting eight historic neighborhoods along the Rio Grande. The Laredo Riverfront Neighborhood Alliance aims to empower residents and uplift marginalized neighborhoods historically burdened by heavy militarization, environmental, and socioeconomic hardships to combat the false border narrative at both the state and federal levels.

We the People of Detroit: In addition to deepening their involvement in the WECR Caucus, We the People of Detroit (WPD) will continue to develop their Water Policy Education & Engagement Program (Water PEEPs). Water PEEPs will be able to deepen their work around water, climate, and justice priorities while also building community capacity to understand/engage in opportunities. 

West Street Recovery: West Street Recovery (WSR) is organizing for equitable drainage, sewer provision, and flood control for low income BIPOC residents living in Northeast Houston and Harris County. They will work with the city to identify problem areas, co-create solutions, and support applications for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to make these projects happen as quickly as possible.