23564 Calabasas Road, Suite 201, Calabasas, CA 91302 T: 818-225-9150

Environmental Justice Thriving Communities

Welcome to the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities, a collaborative initiative led by Social and Environmental Entrepreneurs and collaborating nonprofit partners. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aims to efficiently distribute approximately $40 million to support environmental justice projects within EPA Region 9 covering Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, the Pacific Islands, and 148 Tribal Nations.

The Thriving Communities Grantmaker Program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, signifies a crucial step towards advancing climate and environmental priorities. Our approach involves a strategic alliance of experienced, community-based grant-makers with extensive networks in the region. By leveraging the collective expertise of our partners, including SEE’s proficiency in managing government grants and contracts, we seek to streamline the distribution process and maximize the impact of environmental justice initiatives.

Join us on this journey as we work collaboratively to address environmental challenges and create thriving communities throughout EPA Region 9. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the path towards environmental justice.

Media Contact:
Trevis Bird
Chief Operating Officer
Phone: 818-225-9150
Email address: Trevis@saveourplanet.org

EPA Selects SEE to Receive $50 Million to Fund Environmental Justice Projects


EPA’s new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program partners with SEE to increase the efficiency of access for environmental justice funds.

Los Angeles, California – Social and Environmental Entrepreneurs (SEE) is pleased to announce that in partnership with International Community Foundation, Liberty Hill Foundation, Native Americans in Philanthropy, Resources Legacy Fund, and Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, the organization has been selected to serve as the EPA Region 9 Grantmaker for the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaker Program. The partnership is a strategically curated group of experienced, community-based grantmakers with extensive networks throughout the region.

Together, this Region 9 Grantmakers partnership will distribute grants to support environmental justice projects throughout EPA Region 9, which covers Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, the Pacific Islands, and 148 Tribal Nations. The partners will collaboratively design the subgrants program, leveraging each partner’s existing grantmaking expertise and connections in local communities.

The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, which passed Congress last year investing billions of dollars to advance climate and environmental priorities. This program marks a significant milestone in advancing the Biden Administration’s commitment to environmental justice.

The selection acknowledges the Grantmakers partners’ outstanding dedication to environmental equity and recognizes SEE’s experience with managing government grants and contracts as well as their expertise in Administration Management.

SEE extends its gratitude to the EPA for their support and confidence in SEE’s mission and ability to oversee this groundbreaking opportunity. The organization is appreciative of the advancements this award provides in making meaningful strides toward a more sustainable future.

About Social and Environmental Entrepreneurs (SEE)

Social and Environmental Entrepreneurs (SEE) was formed in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. SEE’s long-term vision is empowering individuals to turn their ideas of positive change in their communities into action. With experienced professionals that specialize in nonprofit management, SEE’s team of accountants, HR specialists and administrative support are able to amplify the impact of their fiscally sponsored projects and guide project leaders on best practices in nonprofit management.

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CFSA logo
International Community Foundation logo
Liberty Hill Foundation logo
Native Americans in Philanthropy logo
Resources Legacy Fund logo

Our Partners

Community Foundation for Southern Arizona

Since 1980, the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona (CFSA) has supported Southern Arizona with over $245 million in grants and scholarships, serving as a vital link between philanthropy and the community’s needs. From trust-based funding through our grant programs to professional development through the Center for Healthy Nonprofits, CFSA is committed to helping individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits work together to create an equitable and vibrant community for all Southern Arizonans.

International Community Foundation

ICF has developed unparalleled knowledge of giving across borders in Mexico and Latin America. Our efforts in the border region are advancing climate resilience and food systems that result in healthier communities, stronger civil society, and better-protected marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

Liberty Hill Foundation

Liberty Hill Foundation is a laboratory for social change philanthropy. They leverage the power of community organizers, donor activists, and allies to advance social justice through strategic investment in grants, leadership training, and campaigns.

Native Americans in Philanthropy

NAP is a Native-led organization that reshapes the philanthropic sector by applying Indigenous values to build more impactful and authentic relationships in philanthropy. Our vision is for all Native communities to be restored to full health, sustainability, and self-determination.

Resources Legacy Fund

Resources Legacy Fund (RLF) builds alliances that advance bold solutions to secure a just and resilient world for people and nature. Established in 2000, RLF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that partners with leaders in philanthropy, frontline communities, government, science, and business to promote smart policies and secure equitable public funding for the environment, climate change resilience, and healthy communities.