Day 8: Natural Resources Defense Council

About the organization

Natural Resources Defense Council is a nationwide organization that works on a wide range of environmental issues, including ocean health, air pollution, climate change and endangered species.

Why does it appeal to me?

Not only does NRDC work tirelessly to protect wildlife and natural lands, it also advocates for less obvious - but just as important - issues like how the way we build our cities and suburbs impacts health, air pollution and consumption.  I like that they do not limit their mission to what most people would expect an "environmental" organization to cover, but they really think deeply about issues that impact our daily lives, even if we're unaware of them.  If you're interested in urban planning, you might be interested in F Kaid Benfield's blog, which covers a whole host of city, economic and environmental issues in a thought provoking way.

Want to learn more?

Learn more about NRDC here.

Donate here.

Want to help in a non-financial way?  Check out this great page with ideas of how simple lifestyle changes can have big impacts.

Follow along with my challenge here on the blog or on Twitter with the hash tag #30daysofcharity.

Want me to see if your favorite organization accepts microdonations, or want me to feature it?  Post a comment below.

Day 5: Smart Growth America and a little primer on streets and pedestrian safety

About the organization

Smart Growth America is a coalition of dozens of economic, housing, transportation and housing organizations that works towards "making communities work for everyone."  They tackle a large number of issues from improving rural transportation to revitalizing industrial areas.  They've been one of the key players in getting "Complete Streets" implemented across the country as well as playing a role behind the scenes in DC, advocating for Federal laws that improve urban and rural quality of life.


Why does it appeal to me?

When we lived in DC I got to see first hand how hard Smart Growth America staff works to get better policies passed into law in Congress.  But they also do really amazing work with local governments, advocating for bicyclists, pedestrians, kids, the elderly and disabled.  These groups are called "vulnerable road users" because basically they weigh less than a car and are at risk for significant harm if they are hit by a car.  If you're interested in why these users are so at risk, check out how street design can actually create danger for vulnerable users, and an in-depth discussion here about why, in many places, it's not illegal to kill a cyclist with your car.  If your community has or is thinking of improving sidewalks, roadway designs, or bike lanes, chances are SGA influenced that decision.


Want to learn more?

To learn more about Smart Growth America, click here.

To donate, click here.

To check out Urbanful, the urban-focused blog and shop that features crafters in cities around the countries, click here.


Follow along with my challenge here on the blog or on Twitter with the hash tag #30daysofcharity.   New to the blog and want to learn about the challenge?  Click here.

Want me to see if your favorite organization accepts microdonations, or want me to feature it?  Post a comment below.