It's an exciting time of year at the City for climate action, where Kingstonians unite to advance climate initiatives, support neighbourhood projects and champion charitable efforts for a more sustainable community. Our community's spirit of collaboration and dedication to climate action defines us, and there are opportunities for you to be a part of this movement.

Join the Neighbourhood Climate Action Champion Program

If you're ready to take on a leading role in local climate action, I invite you to apply to become a 2024 Neighbourhood Climate Action Champion (NCAC). Applications are now open, and this is your opportunity to be a driving force in our community's sustainability efforts.

Returning for its second year, the NCAC program supports passionate climate champions in their efforts to inspire, motivate and encourage neighbours and friends to make changes in our community. We know that many residents in Kingston have a passion for climate action and sustainability. This program can help bring your ideas into action.

Last year, we received tremendous interest in the newly created program. Each of our champions brought forth innovative ideas and an unwavering dedication to advancing local climate action. You may have met your neighbourhood champion at an event or through an invitation to connect by phone, email or on social media. In fact, you might have already witnessed the tangible results of their efforts throughout the City!

From the creation of pollinator gardens to tree planting initiatives, the establishment of sustainability hubs, and the creation of captivating moss displays, the champions of 2023 embarked on a wide array of diverse and imaginative projects. All of these endeavours share a common goal: paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for our community.

Fourteen passionate champions spearheaded a collection of invaluable projects, and many of these champions have committed to sustaining their vital work in the coming weeks and beyond. While I encourage you to explore the complete list on our Get Involved Kingston page, I'd like to spotlight one of these remarkable projects today.

Sprouting sustainability

Meet Cherilyn Burnell, the energetic Neighbourhood Climate Action Champion making change in Trillium District. Cherilyn collaborated with the City, community partners, and residents to create space and resources for people to grow fresh, local food to feed people in our community. 

With 16 new garden plots in the west end, Cherilyn's initiative brought together neighbours of all ages, fostering a sense of community through shared gardening and harvesting experiences. Throughout the month of June, Cherilyn also collaborated with the Kingston Frontenac Public Library to offer educational programming to children aged 2 – 10.

Here's the cherry on top – the fruits (and veggies) of their labour are giving back to the community in a big way. Hundreds of pounds of fresh produce were donated to Loving Spoonful's Grow-A-Row program as well as to residents through a local pop-up food stand this fall. Cherilyn is proof that when a community comes together with a shared vision, incredible things can sprout.

Transform your passion into action

The dedication, innovation, and collaboration of our Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions demonstrate the incredible impact that can be achieved when a community works together to advance climate action.

Whether you choose to apply for the Neighbourhood Climate Action Champion program, support local initiatives, or explore other avenues for climate action, your involvement is a vital step toward creating a brighter and greener future for Kingston. Together, we can continue to sow the seeds of change, cultivate innovation, and harvest a more sustainable and resilient future for Kingston. Join us in making a difference, and let's grow a greener, more vibrant community together.

Take charge and help shape our community's climate future. Become a Neighbourhood Climate Action Champion and bring your innovative ideas to life. Apply by Nov. 16 and receive up to $2,000 to support your project. Apply at GetInvolved.CityofKingston.ca.