Driving Change: The Visionaries Shaping Sustainability Through the Evenson Award
January 15, 2025
Since its founding in 1970, the Charles R. Evenson Foundation has been dedicated to advancing sustainability, equity, and collaboration. Inspired by the legacy of Charles R. Evenson—a Grand Rapids-based pioneer whose mission was founded in improving quality of life through collective action—the Foundation created the Evenson Award to honor individuals who lead transformative change through science-based solutions.
This article highlights the inspiring stories of the recent Evenson Award winners: Erica Bouldin, Greg Mankowski, and Christine Kelly. Their exceptional work in climate justice, resource recovery, and sustainability education exemplifies the Foundation’s goal to create meaningful impact. Through their dedication and innovative approaches, these changemakers are redefining what’s possible in building a sustainable and equitable future.
Erica Bouldin: Bridging Communities for Climate Justice
As a Climate Justice Organizer with the Urban Core Collective, Erica Bouldin has spent the past two years fostering connections and empowering BIPOC communities in Grand Rapids.
Her work centers on reducing disparities in access to sustainable solutions, with a focus on land preservation, food sovereignty, and nature-based education.
Erica’s leadership with the Community Collaboration on Climate Change (C4) and advocacy through the Michigan Climate Action Network have amplified voices often left out of environmental decision-making. As a 2024 Evenson Honoree, Erica’s efforts reflect the Foundation’s commitment to equity and innovation, demonstrating how collaboration can drive community resilience and climate action.
Greg Mankowski: Turning Waste Into Wealth
Greg Mankowski, Manager of Compost Operations at Organicycle, has dedicated his career to uncovering the potential in what others discard.
Through innovative composting practices, Greg transforms food waste into nutrient-rich compost that supports local agriculture and reduces landfill reliance. His early grassroots efforts with Urban Roots demonstrated how small-scale actions can drive substantial environmental benefits, while his current leadership continues to inspire sustainable resource recovery in West Michigan.
As a 2024 Evenson Honoree, Greg’s commitment to a circular economy exemplifies how innovation and community-driven solutions can create lasting environmental and economic impact.
Christine Kelly: Empowering the Next Generation of Environmental Stewards
Christine Kelly, a science teacher at Allendale Middle School, transforms classrooms into hubs of sustainability and innovation.
As a 2023 Community Sustainability Champion, Christine integrates environmental education into her curriculum, engaging students in hands-on projects like removing invasive species and experimenting with green roof systems.
Her work, supported by a $15,000 grant from the Evenson Foundation, has fostered a culture of environmental stewardship among her students. Christine’s dedication to empowering young minds highlights the Foundation’s mission to inspire future changemakers and advance sustainability through education.
Honoring Excellence Through the Evenson Award
The Evenson Award celebrates the remarkable achievements of individuals like Erica, Greg, and Christine, whose work demonstrates the power of collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. Their diverse efforts reflect the values of the Charles R. Evenson Foundation and serve as a reminder that meaningful change is possible when passionate individuals come together to address environmental challenges.
Through their dedication and leadership, these honorees continue to build a legacy of sustainability and inspire others to join in creating a more resilient and equitable future.