Programs

ALLY’s program development applies systems-based thinking to catalyze working partnerships by  exploring the relationships between natural, human, and built ecologies. 

ALLY takes inspiration from nature and believes that our fundamental challenge is a broader understanding of the dynamic relationships between the human condition and the health of all living systems.  We help to create a more resilient, lasting world through a variety of program development strategies

Green & Healthy Schools Network

Cincinnati Public Schools:

Beginning in 2004, ALLY and its Green and Healthy Schools Network, led a wide range of organizations to advocate for green and healthy schools. By working in collaboration with Cincinnati Public Schools, architects, and community leaders, ALLY was a citizen catalyst for green and healthy schools in Cincinnati, Ohio and across the nation.

Program Goals:

1. Provide guidance to community leaders and catalyze working partnerships between Cincinnati Public Schools (School Communities) and a variety of organizations to develop environmental sustainability programs that promote health, and academic performance as well as connection and appreciation for the living environment.

2. Educate the public and school community about the benefits of sustainable design.

3. Assist in the development of using green and healthy school buildings as learning tools to help young people understand all the interconnecting environmental issues.

4. Assist in the incorporation of sustainable design, environmental education and environmental health into the curriculum of a districts’ educational system.

5. Collaborate with partners to produce educational and instructional materials. (See “Growing Green and Healthy Schools ” (http://www.my.cetconnect.org/GreenHealthySchools/index.asp).

Projects

• Indoor Air Quality 

Policy development and implementation support for Cincinnati Public Schools’ Sustainable Design Initiative for Optimizing Indoor Air Quality.  Partners include: ALLY, CPS, Cincinnati Health Department, Cincinnati Federation of Teachers, Growing Well and GBBN Architects.

• Online Educational Resources:

ALLY works with CET to create on-line educational resources pertaining to Green and Healthy Schools.

• Schools As Learning Tools:

ALLY works with Eco-Mentors in afterschool programs where students learn to use their built environment (school buildings/grounds) as learning tools for environmental stewardship and sustainable, healthy living.