The Positive Confluence of Climate Change, Community Interest, and Green Jobs

A positive convergence of needs and desires is surfacing to support climate resilience in the Bay Area and beyond. Climate change and its impacts are real. Workforce development is a must in the ‘Green’ jobs industry. Black and Brown Bay Area residents have identified the desire to have access to education and skills development as a path to economic prosperity. More specifically, findings from EVITARUS in the Bay Area Urban League’s “State of the Black Bay Area” survey offers a direct community perspective: 79% of respondents “believe completing a certificate or credential-based program is a solid pathway to finding good jobs and a career.” 

We see that this positive convergence is directly aligned with BFN member interests and grantmaking strategies. Moreover as the expected Super El Niño weather patterns manifest, the Bay Area faces an urgent need for proactive emergency preparedness and a long-term need for a strong climate resilience infrastructure. 

Grantmakers focused on workforce development as well as climate resilience are clearly connected to this positive convergence. For example, investing in solar and green technology workforce development can help achieve carbon mitigation targets and generate family-sustaining wages for historically under-resourced communities. With climate mitigation philanthropy reaching an estimated $11.7 to $18.4 billion, exceeding 2% of total global philanthropic giving for the first time, strong investments in clean electricity, strategic movement building, and are rapidly growing, along with people-centered strategies in food and agriculture. 

Research on what BFN members are doing points to a growing focus on economic mobility, environmental sustainability, and BIPOC leadership. There is quite a bit of activity growing to support this positive confluence among longstanding BFN members: including the California Endowment’s Resilient Communities priority area which includes their Inclusive Community Development focus, James Irvine Foundation’s Better Careers focus, and incoming member Solano Community Foundation’s emerging Benicia Clean Mobility & Workforce Initiative that aims to prepare residents for skilled jobs that support EV adoption, public and private fleets, independent repair businesses and charging networks.. 

Effective philanthropic strategy sits at the intersection of community voice, rigorous third-party data, and leveraged public and private resources that can drive lasting impact. Below are references to support your thinking, research and future grantmaking action to maximize the positive convergence that can create greater climate resilience and expanded access to economic prosperity in communities across the Bay Area and state of California.