Reflecting on EGLE’s Inaugural Cohort

The MI Healthy Climate (MHC) Corps was designed to empower individuals and communities with the resources and capacity needed to take direct action through the MI Healthy Climate Plan, by conducting greenhouse gas emission research, promoting clean energy solutions, protecting natural resources, and fostering community health and equity. With the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s (EGLE) inaugural cohort of the MHC Corps ending their service term, we celebrate the impact they’ve had on Michigan’s climate resilience efforts.

During their eight-month term, Cohort One has logged thousands of hours tackling projects aligned with these goals within their host communities. From conducting energy audits on buildings in underserved communities to organizing local transit initiatives, their dedication has advanced Michigan’s sustainability goals and inspired meaningful community action.

Many members of Cohort One are now stepping into exciting new roles in environmental advocacy, community development, and public service: seven members are now employed at their former host site, six members are continuing their service at their host site as members of the second cohort, and more than 13 members have stepped into new positions in the field. Their stories are a testament to the power of national service and the pathways these programs open to meaningful careers, particularly in the climate sector.

Inspiring Post-Service Journeys

• Julia Cunnien is continuing her work post-service as special projects manager with Michigan Saves. Throughout her service term, Julia created a Community-based Organization Network Framework which she seeks to implement as part of Michigan Saves’ community outreach strategy within her continued role. Read more about Julia’s success story as an alumnus of the MHC Corps program.
• Avi Gurfinkel has begun his role with Barr Engineering Co. as a data management technician. His service experience conducting energy audits and developing benchmarking ordinances at Detroit 2030 District will prove most useful.
• Dionna Brown was hired full-time as the director of youth environmental justice policy and programs at Young, Gifted, and Green, a nonprofit dedicated to environmental justice through advocacy, mentorship, and training. She oversees initiatives such as the Young, Gifted, and Green Environmental Justice Camp and the Flint Youth Environmental Council. “The [MHC Corps] program gave me invaluable exposure to the intersections of environmental justice, public health, and policy, setting the stage for my current work, where I can influence policies at the national level with YGG,” Brown said.

These are just a few examples of the doors AmeriCorps service can open. We are proud to see Cohort One’s dedication to climate work rewarded in such a valuable way.

Passing the Torch: A Unified Vision

During our end-of-service year celebration, the inaugural cohort hosted lightning talk presentations to the incoming Cohort Two members, meant to ignite their passion and energize them into action for their upcoming service year. They shared their experiences and success stories from being a part of the MHC Corps program.

Cohort Two of the MI Healthy Climate Corps officially began their journey on November 13, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the program. Cohort Two inherits a strong legacy, taking on the responsibility and opportunity of continuing the critical work started by their predecessors. Their service within the MHC Corps will further advance EGLE and Michigan’s objectives by focusing on solutions that address pressing environmental challenges while engaging local communities.

Looking Ahead: Our Shared Journey

The transition from one cohort to the next is a reminder that the work of protecting our environment is ongoing and collaborative. We, along with EGLE, are grateful for the contributions of Cohort One and look forward to the continued efforts of Cohort Two. Together, they embody the spirit of service, resilience, and hope for a healthier, more sustainable Michigan.