[All] May 5th event: Connecting the Dots

[Louisette Lanteigne]

Hi folks

There is an international event being promoted by 350.org called Connecting the Dots which is encouraging communities to create events to promote awareness on localized climate change issues.  Here is the website regarding the Connect the Dots May 5th event as established by Bill McKibbon of 350.org. You can view the general info online by referencing the subcategories along the bottom tool bar as seen on the main webpage here; http://www.climatedots.org/

The event outline is very broad in scope which is nice because it allows communities the flexibility to create their own event. The core reason why I'd like to do this is to help save lives by public awareness to address climate issues that will eventually affect our community. The event can inform people of where cooling centers are, give info on sunstroke prevention, how to prepare for storms etc.  If we were to do an event specific to only emergency preparedness it may foster anxiety in the public but in using a broad scope event like 350's Connecting the Dots, we can deliver the same info using a softer approach. Not only can we provide the tools for people to cope but we can also reassure the community that our city, region and industries do care, and that many are taking measurable steps to prevent risk and support the public. 

Today's kids are seeing climate change in media being represented in a scary manner all the time, but rarely does media spin all the good work being done. A  balanced approach is by far the better way. We can showcase the successes of sustainability programs, recycling, corporate conservation efforts etc.  I ran the concept by Waterloo City Council and thanks to their support, the idea is now on the agenda for WCEAC scheduled for April 10th. I've been told they may have members who want to be involved or who would be able to reach out to their network to gather volunteers etc. 

Prior to this meeting, I would like to ask if GREN would be involved with this project and to what extent? Are we willing to spearhead the event, work in partnership or simply play a supporting roll? As an event coordinator, it's a simple format to set up. Secure an indoor space so rain or shine the event can go on. We set up display tables for information, secure guest speakers and set up a little activity centre for children. That's basically it. I've created many events like this so it's relatively easy and cost effective to do. 

Right now it's in the earliest planning stage at this point. I simply had an idea and now I'm pitching it to others to see if they would like to help manifest this vision.  I would like to see if GREN is interested in participating and if so to what extent? I can deliver this idea as a GREN representative to WCEAC if you like. Just wanted to ask the gang what they think of the concept. If I can get a response prior to the April 10th meeting that would be best. Perhaps we could use Survey Monkey to do a quick survey on the issue to see if there is concusses on how we should proceed. 

Thanks!

Lulu :0)
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