Green Apple Supply is part of a larger movement toward “Compassionate Capitalism,” a model for both nonprofit and for-profit entities that prioritizes passion over profits in order to make a more just, socially-responsible economy the norm, rather than the alternative. I’m striving to make Green Apple Supply a case study for how the healthiest, most environmentally friendly products on the market can also be the most economical. I have faith that businesses can leverage their influence to be a force for good.
Our collaboration with The 2012 Project helped recruit women from fields largely underrepresented within policymaking bodies – including health, science and technology, energy, and the environment. Efforts like The 2012 Project contributed to a record-setting year for women’s participation in races for the U.S. House and Senate.
Through a multi-year grant from Rachel’s Network, the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) was able amplify its message of creation care and climate action within the evangelical community.
The reminder: Together, we must give a face and a voice to the women and children whose decisions impact the world’s future. Currently, women are forced to walk farther for kindling and water, work harder for the same crop yield, and make choices between their children’s education or keeping them at home to assist with the burden that environmental devastation has already caused for rural households. These impacts are not isolated to rural areas; urban areas are now burgeoning with environmental migrants whose farms could no longer produce enough income due to unpredictable rainfall and desertification.
The role of investments and markets has become a primary focus for me. During my time as chair of the Sierra Club Foundation board, we’ve transitioned as much of our portfolio as possible to asset managers who are aligned with our priorities. Convincing investors that coal is a bad investment has been a key component of the Club’s campaign success. Now the Club is partnering with clean energy leaders to convince investors, policymakers, and the public that renewables and efficiency are a good bet.
In 2011, Rachel’s Network encompassed an extensive array of women from over 20 states, with outreach to educational outlets, advocacy groups, and grantmaking institutions. A retention rate of 93 percent affirmed the Network’s value as a tool for maximizing their impact. Though diverse in age, region, and political affiliation, members remained connected by a shared commitment to philanthropy, women’s leadership, and conservation. A variety of relationships also enhanced our roster, including multi-generational family ties, professional colleagues, and fellow community leaders.
