Presentation at 2014 Massachusetts Sustainable Communities and Campuses Conference

1. Bolton Local
Sustainable Solutions
Laura Kischitz
Co-Founder
April 17, 2014
www.boltonlocal.org

2. Bolton Local’s Mission
To build a strong, self-reliant community of
people committed to living sustainably on
the planet, in a way that inspires, builds
friendships, and offers a hopeful vision for
the future. ~ Founded 2009
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful and
committed citizens can change the world; indeed it’s the
only thing that ever has.” ~Margaret Mead
Massachusetts Sustainable Communities & Campuses Conference
April 17, 2014

3. Current Campaigns
Residential Energy Efficiency (EE) 2014
– Partnered with Next Step Living to
promote Mass Save, Energy Efficiency
home evaluations, heat pump & solar
benefits
– Upcoming Solar Tour 2014
• Bolton Orchard Solar Farm, then visit 6 homes
with various approaches to solar
solutions.
Massachusetts Sustainable Communities & Campuses Conference
April 17, 2014

4. On-Going Initiatives
• Skill Building:
– Canning Club
– Bread & Cheese Making
– Healthy Home & Body Products
• Awareness Education Programs:
– Well Water vs. Bottled, Bee Keeping,
Gardening, Peak Oil, GMO foods, etc.
• www.boltonlocal.org and yahoo list
• Bolton Local Phone BookMassachusetts Sustainable Communities & Campuses Conference
April 17, 2014

5. Successes & Best Practices
Successes:
• Recognition in the community
• 5th Annual Townwide Yard Sale
• Community Garden
• Repair Cafe
Best Practices:
• Being sensitive to how you
market and message events
• Look for fun opportunities to
bring the community together &
get message across (reduce
waste, skill building, etc)
• Starting small with vision of
where you want to go
Massachusetts Sustainable Communities & Campuses Conference
April 17, 2014

6. 2014 Plans & Beyond
Continue Promoting EE,
Weatherization, and
Reducing Energy for Homes
Launch Buy Local Campaign
- On-line directory
- Expand Welcome Kits to
include local businesses
- Work with Economic
Development Committee
(EDC)
 Collaborate with existing
town boards and
organizations (Rotary, Lions,
Conservation Trust, EDC, etc)
Massachusetts Sustainable Communities & Campuses Conference
April 17, 2014

7. 2014 Plans & Beyond
Continue Repair Café
Continue Scholarship for High
School seniors.
 Support High School Garden
to School Program and
improved school food
initiative
 Regional Water Awareness
 Continue skill building,
promoting community
solutions, education, and
action!Massachusetts Sustainable Communities & Campuses Conference
April 17, 2014

8. Thank You!
Laura Kischitz
Lkischitz@comcast.net