Community leaders plan multi-faceted training and support initiative for Overtown and Jalapata

The City of Miami's Climate Resilience Committee convened on July 7, 2025, to discuss critical initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and environmental sustainability. The meeting highlighted the importance of recruiting and training local residents to participate in climate resilience efforts, with a focus on leveraging available grants and support from institutions like Florida International University (FIU) and the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UFIFAS).

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the potential for collaboration among various organizations, including academic institutions, non-profits, and government entities. The Logos Impact Foundation, represented at the meeting, emphasized its commitment to connecting resources and stakeholders to foster community involvement in climate initiatives.

One innovative proposal discussed was the development of a "3 0 5 dashboard," designed to provide real-time data and enhance citizen science efforts. This tool aims to centralize information, allowing residents to access updates on climate-related questions and initiatives directly, thereby promoting transparency and engagement.

The committee also explored the idea of implementing community gardens and tree banking as part of broader environmental strategies. These initiatives are intended to not only improve local ecosystems but also to engage residents in hands-on activities that contribute to climate resilience.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed their commitment to revisiting these topics in future sessions, with the next meeting scheduled for early August. The committee aims to continue building momentum around its "Million Trees" goal, which seeks to enhance urban greenery and combat climate change impacts.

Overall, the discussions underscored the committee's dedication to fostering community involvement and utilizing local resources to address climate challenges effectively. The engagement of residents and organizations will be crucial as Miami navigates its path toward a more resilient future.