October 23, 2025

From the Executive Director: October momentum, people power

Friends,

October brings a season of change—and across the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter, that change feels like momentum. Across Sierra Club Ohio, members are stepping up to lead, learn, and link arms with partners statewide. This month’s newsletter is packed with ways to learn, speak up, and lead. I hope you’ll take a few minutes to scan what’s ahead and plug in where it resonates most.

First, a note for Members only: Our 2025 Executive Committee Elections run November 15–December 12, 2025. Most members will receive electronic voting instructions via our website and email; Members without an email on file will receive printed instructions by mail. Please have your membership number handy so each person in your household can access their ballot. Your vote helps chart our course for the year ahead—thank you for participating.

Please also join me in welcoming Karl Palmquist, a member of the Sierra Club’s National Board of Directors, whom our Chapter has proudly “adopted” through the new adopt-a-board-member program. We’re excited for the two-way learning and stronger bridges this will build between Ohio and the National organization.

We’re keeping learning front and center. Our recent “Forever Chemicals” & You briefing unpacked PFAS risks and actions we can take together, and our Issues Committee Open House connected members to statewide priorities. Families will also find practical resources here, including the Franklin County Public Health vaccine clinics for students.

Momentum is building across the state. Columbus residents are weighing in on the Climate Action Plan to keep the city on track for bold emissions goals. Sun Day 2025 showcased Ohio’s rain-or-shine commitment to solar energy in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, and that civic energy continues into No Kings Day on October 18. However you choose to participate, thank you for showing up for people and planet.

Looking ahead, we’re proud to partner on The Great Ohio Climate March—a 120-mile journey from Athens to the Ohio Statehouse—spotlighting both the beauty of our public lands and the urgency of transitioning off fossil fuels. Closer to home, our Chapter is growing—and we need you. We’re recruiting volunteer leaders in Compliance, Membership, Communications, Finance, and Outings. Whether you have a few hours a month or a weekend to give, there’s a meaningful place for you here.

One housekeeping note: please update our new mailing address—PO Box 37269, Cincinnati, OH 45222-0269—so your correspondence and donations reach us without delay.

Thank you for everything you do—at tables and hearings, on trails and doorsteps, and in your neighborhoods every day. Together, we’re turning October energy into year-round impact and building a cleaner, fairer, more resilient Ohio.

With gratitude and resolve,
Ericka Copeland
Executive Director, Sierra Club Ohio

Upcoming Executive Committee Elections

November 15 – December 12, 2025

Members Only: Executive Committee Elections — How to Vote

It’s almost time to choose our 2025 Executive Committee—and this note is for Members only.

How you’ll receive your ballot

• Most members: You’ll get electronic voting instructions via our website and an email notice with a link to vote via MyAccount.

• Members without email on file: You’ll receive printed instructions by mail with details on how to cast your ballot.

What you’ll need

• Your Sierra Club membership number is required to log in and access each household member’s ballot.
(Tip: It’s on your Sierra Club mailing label and member emails.)

Voting window

November 15 – December 12, 2025
You can vote through our website (and QR code where provided).

Your voice shapes the future of Sierra Club Ohio—thank you for participating.

Best regards,

Chuck McClaugherty
Elections Chair

Ohio Chapter Adopts SC Board Member

Pictured: Photo of Karl Palmquist, Sierra Club Ohio's newest board member adoptee!

Karl Palmquist is a member of the Sierra Club National Board of Directors and, as part of a new "adopt-a-board-member " program, he has been adopted by the Ohio Chapter.

We anticipate a beneficial relationship for both our Ohio chapter and the Board member!

Columbus Climate Action Plan - Your Input is Needed

The City of Columbus is proud to renew its commitment to achieving our community’s climate goals. To keep Columbus on track to reach a 45% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050, we are updating the Columbus Climate Action Plan.

In this survey, we want to learn how climate change has impacted you, how you think we should prioritize our community's climate actions to achieve our 2030 climate goal, and if there are organizations or projects taking action on climate change that we should know about.

Take the Survey Here

Pictured: Flyer promoting Franklin County Public Healths' Back-to-School Vaccine Clinic Events

Vaccine Clinic with Franklin County Public Health

Franklin County Public Health is hosting additional back-to-school clinics for vaccinations needed for Kindergarten, 7th, and 12th graders. School age children and their families are welcome to receive low or no-cost immunizations. Appointments are required

Click Here to Schedule an Appointment

Pictured: Sierra Club Ohio Members at the Sun Day Event

Ohio Lights the Way:
Sun Day 2025 Builds A Clean-Energy Movement

Bright Futures: Ohio Rallies for Solar and Climate Action: Sun Day 2025 was a statewide celebration of solar energy, community, and climate action across Ohio. In Columbus, 11 organizations and about 45 participants gathered despite gray skies and heavy rain, watching solar panels generate energy through the storm—a powerful symbol of resilience. The event reinforced participants’ determination to advance clean energy, with collaboration from groups like the Sierra Club, leaving everyone inspired and ready for future action.

In Cleveland, the Northeast Ohio Sierra Club joined Third Act Ohio at the Tremont Art and Cultural Festival on September 20–21 to mark Sun Day. Their lively table featured information about solar power, the Sierra Club, and House Bill 303, alongside creative activities. Visitors crafted “I Support Solar Energy Because” signs, helped send 40 postcards supporting HB 303 to the Ohio House Energy Committee, and kids made paper suns in a joyful display of community enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, in Cincinnati, the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter and Miami Group celebrated Sun Day at the Sun Day Song and Solar Festival. Volunteers promoted Community Solar in Ohio and shared materials highlighting the benefits of renewable energy. The weekend featured inspiring speakers, choral performances from local artists, and opportunities for activists and community members to connect and collaborate.

From Cleveland to Columbus, to Cincinnati, Sun Day 2025 showcased the power of unity, creativity, and action in building a clean-energy future. Thank you to all the volunteers, organizers, and participants who made it a bright success!

No Kings Day

On October 18, Ohioians across the state joined millions nationwide for the second No Kings Day of Action, a peaceful protest against President Trump’s authoritarian actions. Residents from all walks of life united to send a clear message: We don’t do kings in America. Did you join the day of action? If so, please share your thoughts and pictures on our social media platforms.

OCA at 50

Ohio Citizen Action recently commemorated 50 years of advancing change across the state, a milestone Sierra Club Ohio was honored to celebrate alongside many partner organizations. Our staff member, Chad Stephens, was privileged to extend congratulations to Senator Sherrod Brown and Connie Schultz on receiving their award and for their steadfast commitment to environmental protection. In her compelling remarks, Connie emphasized the generational struggle for environmental justice, noting, “We outnumber them, and we must all show up and fight.”

The Great Ohio Climate March

How familiar are you with Ohio’s beautiful state parks and public lands? Where are the largest solar arrays in Ohio? What does a fracking site or a frack-waste injection well look like?

The Great Ohio Climate March will take you to some of the most inspiring areas and some of the most environmentally devastated places in Ohio.

This 120-mile march is being organized by Third Act Ohio with the Ohio Sierra Club acting as a collaborative partner. “Climate change is real and climate change is here,” said Jess Grim of Cleveland, coordinating committee member of Third Act Ohio. "If we act quickly, we can implement the clean energy solutions that ensure we pass on a livable planet to our children and grandchildren.”

The Great Ohio Climate March will start in Athens, Ohio, travel through Salt Fork State Park, and finish by hiking into the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus to meet with our state elected officials. You’ll have opportunities to talk with local residents along the hike and to attend presentations and rallies to learn first-hand about the impact of oil and gas infrastructure and the benefits of clean renewable energy. All are welcome to join the hike for a day, a weekend, or the full route!

For more information and updates, please visit GOCM and complete an interest form.

The Athens Messenger Regarding “Forever Chemicals” Litigation

Check out this August 18 article from the Athens Messenger about an ongoing lawsuit over PFAS pollution in the Ohio River below. In the article, the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter is quoted for context about a citizen suit brought by the West Virginia Rivers Coalition against a chemical's manufacturer for illegal discharges under the federal Clean Water Act.

Learn more at our next “Forever Chemicals” & You event!

Click Here to Read the Article

“Forever Chemicals” & You —
Event Recap

Earlier this September, the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter hosted “Forever Chemicals” & You, an online briefing with Dr. Christopher Miller—Water Lead for our Ohio Chapter Issues Committee—and Chapter staff.

The session unpacked what PFAS/PFOS (“forever chemicals”) are, why they persist in water and soil, and the risks they pose to human health and ecosystems. We also covered what’s happening at the federal, state, and local levels—plus practical steps you can take to reduce exposure, support stronger protections, and advocate in your community.

Missed it? Good news—we’ll be offering this program again later this year. Stay tuned for the invitation and bring a friend who wants clear, actionable information on protecting Ohio’s water.

Issues Committee Open House — Recap

The newly constituted Ohio Chapter Issues Committee (formerly the Conservation Committee) hosted a statewide online Open House on October 8.

Participants met committee members and heard updates on key priorities across Ohio, including air quality monitoring, community solar, “forever chemicals”, and more. View the slide deck below.

Thank you to everyone who joined us! Check our online calendar for upcoming chances to engage with the Issues Committee and get involved.

Link to Slide Deck

Drive Electric in Portage Trail Revved-Up Recap

The Portage Trail Group lit up the Unitarian Universalist Church parking lot on Tuesday, September 16 with a gleaming lineup of 12+ electric vehicles and 30+ neighbors swapping stories and specs. More than half the EVs belonged to attendees!

Drivers shared candid journeys to going electric—first test drives, favorite charging tips, and the “I’ll never go back” moments—sparking real optimism that more folks will make the switch.

And because great vibes require great snacks, Drive Electric NEO, one of the partnering organizations, rolled in an EV packed with ice and ice-cream bars, turning the parking lot into a sweet spot for networking and new friendships.

Curious about EVs? Come kick the tires (gently!) at our next meetup and see what the buzz is about.

Pictured: Graphic depicting the Earth with the words "Volunteer with Us"

Help Build the Chapter

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Compliance, Membership, Communications, Finance, and Outings

Step into leadership and strengthen a just, people-powered environmental movement in Ohio.

Explore roles →

The Sierra Club Ohio Chapter is seeking passionate, committed volunteers to fill key leadership roles that will sharpen our work across the state.

If you care about clean air and water, thriving public lands, climate action, and a just, inclusive movement—we need you.

Please share these opportunities with friends, family, and your networks. Together, we’ll build a vibrant, effective Chapter for the years ahead.

Open Leadership Roles

Compliance Officer: Sierra Club Ohio Chapter - Compliance Officer Position Description

Keep our Chapter running smoothly by supporting simple systems for policy compliance and record-keeping. You’ll help ensure accuracy, transparency, and good governance.

Fundraising Chair: Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Fundraising Chair Position Description

Lead our fundraising strategy—appeals, donor stewardship, and campaigns—so we can power more wins on climate and conservation across Ohio.

Membership Chair: Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Membership Chair Position

Grow and engage our community. Build welcoming pathways for new members, strengthen retention, and support volunteer onboarding with Groups and committees.

What you’ll get: training, templates, and staff support—plus a chance to make a real, statewide impact.

How to Apply —

Sierra Club Volunteer Intake Form

Join the Communications Committee — Help Tell the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter’s Story

Committee members needed!

Are you a storyteller, designer, strategist, or social media whiz who wants to make a real impact in Ohio?

The Sierra Club Ohio Chapter’s Communications’ needs are growing—And we’d love your voice, skills, and ideas!

What you’ll do:

Grow our social channels and engage supporters

Write/edit compelling newsletter, web, and campaign copy

Create graphics, short videos, and photo stories

Support event communications (toolkits, promotion, live updates)

Lift up environmental justice and conservation wins across the state

Who you are:

A writer, designer, photographer, videographer, or organizer—or simply eager to learn

Collaborative, reliable, and excited to center community voices

All experience levels welcome; training and templates provided

Be the voice of change!

Get involved:

Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Volunteer Intake Form

erickalcopeland@gmail.com

Volunteer Finance Positions —

Help Steward Sierra Club Ohio Chapter's Resources

Support Sierra Club Ohio’s financial systems and help ensure the integrity and accuracy of our processes. We’re seeking mission-driven volunteers to strengthen our budgeting, reporting, and day-to-day bookkeeping so we can power more environmental wins across the state.

Open Roles:

Volunteer Treasurer

Provide management of chapter finances; review monthly reports
Support annual budgeting and simple internal controls
Prepare brief summaries for leadership and committees
Ideal skills: nonprofit finance familiarity, budgeting, Google Workspace/Sheets, Salesforce + QuickBooks (helpful but not required

Volunteer Bookkeeper

Enter and categorize transactions; maintain documentation
Reconcile bank/credit accounts monthly; manage chart of accounts
Generate basic reports (P&L, balance, budget vs. actual)
Ideal skills: QuickBooks Online (or similar), attention to detail, Google Workspace

Time Commitment

Treasurer: ~3–5 hrs/month (6–8 hrs during budget season)
Bookkeeper: ~4–6 hrs/month
Brief monthly check-in with staff/lead volunteers

Training and templates provided.

Ready to help?

Apply for Treasurer →

Click Here to Apply for Treasurer

Apply for Bookkeeper →

Click Here to Apply for Bookkeeper

Lead the Way Outside:
Volunteer with Outings

The Sierra Club Ohio Chapter is relaunching our Outdoors for All program—and we’re inviting you to help make nature welcoming and accessible across the state. If you care about the outdoors, equity in access, and environmental protection, this is your moment.

Two ways to get involved

Join the Outings Committee: Shape inclusive trips, support logistics and safety, help with communications, and remove barriers to participation.
Become an Outings Leader: Lead or co-lead beginner-friendly hikes, paddles, service days, and family-focused events. (No prior leading required—training, templates, and support provided.)

Why now? Rebuilding and strengthening Outings is a top priority in our strategic plan. Together, we can reduce barriers, ensure Outdoors for All, and inspire the next generation of environmental leaders—right here in Ohio. Sierra Club Membership Required

Position: Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Outings Committee Member

About the Role: The Outings Committee provides leadership, direction, and oversight to the Chapter’s outings program, as well as the outings programs of local Groups and sections.

Location: - Virtual: 1-4 hours/month

Position: Sierra Club Ohio Outings Leader

About the Role: Familiarity with the Outings Leader Training - (OLT) and all relevant Club policies and procedures. Minimize risks to safety of participants, including proper participant screening before outings. Conduct outings legally in a manner consistent with Club policies and ethics. Has the technical, first aid, and leadership experience to safely conduct the types of outings he or she leads.

Maintain current leadership and first aid certifications as required by local policies. Training to become a leader can be done virtually online or in person. Integrate conservation, advocacy, and membership recruitment into outings whenever possible.

Location: - Ohio | Hours: flexible, lead a minimum of 2 Outings a year, quarterly Outings meeting

These are great opportunities for anyone who loves nature, values inclusive access to the outdoors, and wants to make a meaningful impact statewide — all while volunteering with a flexible time commitment.

Interested in joining?

Submit your interest here:

Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Outings Committee Member

Sierra Club Ohio Outings Leader

Join the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter’s Issues Committee

Help set Ohio’s environmental agenda

Pictured: Landscape image of government building with 2 American flags

Are you passionate about protecting Ohio’s air, land, and water—and ready to help guide our advocacy?

The Issues (Conservation) Committee shapes the Chapter’s programmatic and strategic direction and coordinates the work of subcommittees, networks, campaigns, and coalitions across the state.

Committee Structure:

Issues (Conservation) Chair
Issue Chairs: Energy • Land • Water • Air
Representatives from: Young Environmental Leaders, Legislative Committee, Grassroots Network
Chapter staff liaisons

We’re currently recruiting for:

Air Issue Lead (Chair)
Grassroots Network Representative
Young Environmental Leaders Representative

Add your voice and help build a healthier, more just Ohio!

Complete the Volunteer Intake Form to get started:

Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Volunteer Intake Form

The Sierra Club Ohio Chapter has a
New Address!

Please direct all correspondence, donations, and other mail to:

PO Box 37269
Cincinnati, OH 45222-0269

Please take a moment to update your address book to ensure that we stay connected and that your donations and messages reach us without delay. We’re grateful for your continued support as we join forces to safeguard Ohio’s environment!

Thank you for helping us keep our records up to date. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

You're the Heart of This Movement — Thank You!
Every action you take brings us closer to environmental justice for all.
Your commitment makes our progress possible. We’re excited to connect with you through our campaigns and continue advancing our shared mission for a cleaner, greener Ohio.

Ready to take the next step? Sign up volunteer with us or join one of our upcoming events!