A HUB OF ACTIVITY: RAISED BEDS, ROOFTOPS, RAINBARRELS

Sparked by the recent installation of raised beds on the ICA GreenRise rooftop, the most recent Chicago Sustainability Leaders Network hub event was held on November 16th. ​​The event, "Raised Beds, Rooftops, Rainbarrels," was a joint effort by ICA, Greenroof Solutions, Landmarks Illinois,Animalia Project, Chicago Conservation Corps, and GreenRise tenant, Loud Grade Produce Squad.

Raised Beds, Rooftops, Rainbarrels

​The aim of the event was to share knowledge and engage public in dialogue about ways to become change agents in their own communities using techniques demonstrated by local organizations. In leading raised bed and rain barrel installation demonstrations and a tour of Weiss Rooftop Garden, event coordinators engaged the audience in an interactive learning experience. Leaving the event, attendees took something tangible to assist their future action, ranging from handout materials to be in touch with presenters and seed packets to one of three raffle-prize rain barrels.

Event coordinators and participants alike were energized by the innovative space at the event and look forward to continued hub activity. Regarding the event's success, Joseph Taylor, ICA representative for the event, said "the environment at ICA was essential for bringing together all the resources and assets for this event. All the collaborators came from contacts in the GreenRise building, the intentional community, and the CSLN. I'm looking forward to building these relationships as the ICA's presence as a hub continues to grow."