How We Operate
We are a non-profit led by a community of volunteers working on projects to increase sustainability in DuPage County.
Our Model of Horizontal Leadership
The Leadership Committee
Sustain DuPage has been a 501(c)(3) nonprofit since 2016. As such, we are required to have a Board of Directors with a President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Because we value community input and active leadership, our governing body includes more than these required roles. The Leadership Committee comprises our Board of Directors, Project Organizers, and Facilitative Organizers. Our Leadership Committee makes the majority of Sustain DuPage’s decisions. The Leadership Committee usually meets virtually once a month, with the schedule posted on our Google calendar. SD members are welcome to observe these meetings, and minutes are available upon request.
Project Organizers
Project Organizers are official members of Sustain DuPage who have joined leadership to oversee an ongoing Sustain DuPage project. Examples include our Garden project or Seed Cache efforts. All Project Organizers have received a background check and values training. Anyone with a Sustain DuPage membership can apply to become a Project Organizer by filling out this application form.
Facilitative Organizers
Facilitative Organizers are official members of Sustain DuPage who have joined our leadership to help us achieve our organization’s vision by bringing a specific skill or serving in a focused role. Examples include Operations and Systems Organizer, website/tech, or community development. All Facilitative Organizers have received a background check and values training. Anyone with a Sustain DuPage membership can apply to become a Facilitative Organizer by filling out this application form.
Core Volunteers
Volunteers who want to contribute to our community without consistently serving in Leadership roles can serve as Core Volunteers. These are also SD Members who have undergone a background check and support a Project Organizer or Facilitative Organizer without attending Leadership Committee meetings. However, they may be asked to make a guest appearance at a meeting to clarify their ideas with leadership.
Subcommittees
Board, Organizers, and Core Volunteers also serve on subcommittees to meet different needs. These behind-the-scenes tasks are essential, and we truly appreciate everyone who can help further our mission in these ways! Please feel free to reach out if you are interested. You can apply for Core Volunteer status and simply contribute to one of these teams and their needs.
Finance & Membership
Messaging
Handbook
Website
(Other semi-regular meetings include):
Food Hub Organizers (Garden, Cooking Nights, & Seed Cache)
Food Hub Planning
Seed Cache Core: Seed Cache Organizer and Core Volunteers
Creators (all volunteers in a seasonal planning session)