Sustaining Climate Activists

Program & Host Organization

Sustaining Climate Activists is hosted by SOCAN, a not-for-profit organization. The program offers spaces for climate activists to reflect on their emotional wellbeing and strengthen resilience to sustain long-term engagement in climate action.

Location & Scope

The initiative operates in the United States, with activities held in community settings such as library meeting rooms or public parks. It functions at the local level through monthly in-person gatherings.

Who It Serves

The program supports adults involved in climate activism. Participants include volunteers and community members engaged in climate advocacy who may be experiencing emotional fatigue or burnout.

Climate & Mental Health Focus

The initiative addresses activist burnout associated with ongoing climate impacts such as wildfires and extreme heat. It responds to the emotional strain, stress, and discouragement that activists may face while working in high-pressure climate contexts.

Activities & Format

Sessions take place monthly for 1.5 hours. Activities include facilitated dialogue, reflective exercises, use of tools such as the climate emotions wheel, resilience discussions, and informal social time. Meetings occur in accessible community locations, and participation is flexible, allowing individuals to join when able.

Inclusion & Accessibility

Details not provided.

Outcomes & Evidence

The program aims to build emotional resilience, provide a supportive space for reflection, and reduce burnout among activists. Over the medium term, the initiative seeks to strengthen coping skills, and over the long term, improve volunteer retention. Evaluation is based on participant feedback. The approach draws on principles of Co-Counseling and teachings from Joanna Macy on emotional processing and collective support.

Guiding Principles

The initiative aligns with emotional processing, social connection, emotional resilience, and collective responsibility. These principles are reflected through shared dialogue, validation of emotions, discussion of self-care practices, and collective exploration of SOCAN climate campaigns.

Resources & Sustainability

The program is fully volunteer-led and operates at no cost, with minimal resources such as printing supplies and refreshments.

Team & Partners

Sessions are co-facilitated by volunteers. Further details on team members or partners were not provided.

Challenges & Context

Local climate events, such as wildfires or political developments, may influence participation and demand for the program.