The contest is now open for applications! Apply for a chance to win $1000!
IPL is now accepting applications for the Cool Congregations Challenge, our annual contest for congregations becoming sustainable leaders in their communities. The deadline to apply is December 15, 2023.
There are six entry categories:
- Energy Saver: Lighting, Insulation, Windows & Doors, Heating & Cooling Systems
- Renewable Role Model: Solar, Wind, Geothermal, Solar Water Heating
- Sacred Grounds: Native landscaping, Organic Gardening, Water Conservation, Bike Racks, Wildlife Habitats, Recycling & Composting
- Community Inspiration: Inspiring Congregants to Reduce at Home, Helping Communities Transition from Fossil Fuels to Clean Energy, Helping Communities Prepare for the Impacts of Climate Change
- Cool Congregations Planner: Audits, Planning Reports, Fundraising
- Electric Vehicle Leader: EVs, Charging Stations, Education, Advocacy, Outreach
In each category, the top winner wins $1,000, and three runner-ups will receive $500!
Is your congregation planning to take advantage of the new Federal funding available for nonprofits to upgrade your facilities to reduce energy use? If your congregation has made concrete plans – for audits, written action plans, and fundraising – consider applying for the Cool Planner category.
Download the preview questions, as well as a flyer to get your green team excited about entering.
Projects can take place inside the worship space or other buildings, on the grounds, in congregants’ homes, or in the community.
The eligibility window includes projects completed in 2021, 2022, and 2023. If you applied before and have not won the Challenge previously, you are eligible to apply again for your projects completed in those three years.
The deadline to apply is December 15.
Apply for IPL’s Cool Congregations Challenge for the chance to win $1000.
In gratitude for all you do to steward our Sacred Earth for future generations,
Sarah Paulos
