TOOLKIT

Introduction
One solution to combating environmental injustice, including climate change, is by creating a
new generation of leaders. The purpose of this project is to engage youth as leaders on
environmental and climate justice. The 10,000 Steps to Environmental and Climate Justice
Project will build on existing strengths and passion to advance social change in their
communities, while allowing youth leaders to advocate for the three NAACP Environmental and
Climate Justice Program objectives: reduce harmful emissions, advance energy efficiency and
clean energy, and improve community livability and resilience.
As part of the project, each Youth Council/College Chapter commits to earning 10,000 steps
throughout the school year (September – May) by participating in activities that will advance the
goals of environmental and climate justice. There are three ways to get to the 10,000 step goal:
you can walk, run, or sprint. But by all means keep on moving!
WALK: The foundation for environmental and climate justice refers to activities that inspire
Youth Council/College Chapter through self-education.
RUN: Once the Youth Council/College Chapter has mastered the elements of walking, they are
encouraged to engage the community through teach-ins, workshops, and other civic
development opportunities.
SPRINT: Things are picking up pace – this is the opportunity to integrate the environmental and
climate justice tools that were learned in this Toolkit into the democratic process.
HYDRATION STATIONS: As in every marathon, runners need water and nutrients to make it to
the finish line. Throughout the Toolkit, there will be suggestions of activities the Youth
Council/College Chapter can do to fuel their campaigns to accomplish the 10,000 steps by the
end of the year.
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