Today we’d like to introduce you to Jimmy Urciuoli.
Hi Jimmy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Green Steps is a grassroots litter mitigation nonprofit that began in 2017 as a response to the immense amount of dumping and litter across the southeast Tennessee region.
Green Steps Mission: To eradicate litter and reduce waste with education, community cleanups, and green infrastructure.
With limited funding resources, we rely heavily on donors and sponsorships to keep our efforts in motion.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Our journey has been far from smooth! Though we had a strong start with TDOT funding, those monies dried up with the onset of the pandemic. Since 2020, we have not had reliable funding to pay any full-time employees. This has stifled the growth of the organization and has led to burnout.
Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us a bit more about your work.
Changing the culture surrounding waste is the key to a cleaner planet! As the Director of Green Steps, I have led over 50 community litter cleanups, hosted dozens of educational events regarding waste, presented a TEDx Talk called “Let’s Talk Trash,” and have handled all administrative duties to keep the nonprofit afloat. I am most proud of the 15,000+ bags of trash we’ve removed from the greater Chattanooga area over the past 5 years with the help of ~2,500 volunteers. Seeing the amazing work community members have contributed to this hands-on approach to environmental activism has been incredible. My leadership style is unique in conservation because I account for the details that many others don’t. Low waste events, plant-based foods for volunteers, reused bags for litter cleanups, and an emphasis on waste reduction first & most.
We are just one of a handful queer-led environmental non profits in the region. This is SO important to me, as I want to reach LGBTQ+ people through intersectional environmentalism that gives everyone a seat at the table. The environmental conservation Realm needs more diverse leadership, and I hope to inspire forward movement foot the future.
Can you talk to us about the role of luck?
Without a doubt, I have been in the right place at the right time with every opportunity that’s come my way; while I’ve put in the work and energy to get where I am today, serendipity has carried me in many ways.
Pricing:
- Sponsor a cleanup for up to 50 Volunteers: $500
- Sponsor the maintenance of a litter station: $300 annually
- Sponsor a 90 minute presentation on waste management & reduction: $200
- Set up a one time or recurring donation via PayPal
- Submit cash or check donations to Green Steps at 1007 W 55th st, Chattanooga, TN 37409
Contact Info:
- Website: Greenstepschatt.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/greenstepschatt
- Facebook: Facebook.con/greenstepschatt
