What: “Grassroots Campaigns for Biodiversity” is a six-week, virtual course on strategic campaign planning facilitated by Endangered Species Coalition. We want to empower you to run effective campaigns that advance biodiversity conservation and biodiversity justice. In the course, we will cover grassroots organizing fundamentals such as campaign goal-setting, power-mapping, strategy and tactics, and campaign storytelling. Additionally, the course will walk you through the process of crafting or refining a grassroots campaign plan that addresses a biodiversity issue of your choice. It is also an opportunity to connect with other people around the country who are working to protect biodiversity and ensure its benefits are shared equitably by all communities. 

Who: This course is open to staff, interns, and volunteers from Endangered Species Coalition member organizations AND non-member organizations that work on biodiversity conservation. We can accept up to 15 people in the fall. 

When: October 9th 2023 – November 19th, 2023.

Where: Zoom

Time commitment: During the six weeks of the course, you will: 

– Attend a one-hour workshop each week with other members of the course

– Complete one to two hours of work – such as doing readings, watching videos, or working on your grassroots campaign plan – outside of the workshops

– OPTIONAL: Participate in 1-on-1 coaching sessions

You will need to set aside two to three hours per week for this during six weeks of the course. If you are able to set aside the time, you will see your skills grow immensely and will bring valuable perspective, knowledge, and capacity to your role and organization. 

What we’re looking for: The best candidates will have a particular biodiversity issue they are hoping to address. For example, you might be currently working or intending to work on: 

– Passing an important biodiversity bill at the local, state, or federal level

– Banning a harmful pesticide or product

– Expanding access to green space in your region for communities of color 

– Updating a state agency's wildlife management plan

You can have previous grassroots organizing experience or you can be totally new to organizing. Regardless of your experience, good candidates are excited to refine or build their skills.

You can reach Sarah at sstarman@endangered.org with questions. Sign up below!!