Empowering Residents to Drive Real Solutions to Environmental Injustice
For New Englanders, the effects of climate change become more evident with each passing season. From rising sea levels to increasingly unpredictable weather, communities across Massachusetts are feeling the consequences of a warming planet. Many of us want to be part of the solution, but aren’t sure where to start. At GenUnity, we help transform this interest into agency, community, and a powerful force for change.
The Path to Environmental Justice
Our fellowships brings together a diverse group of everyday people, including environmental professionals, community organizers, advocates, and people who are most affected by climate change eager to make a change.
Throughout the 10-week program, you’ll have the opportunity to build lasting relationships with other Fellows, as well as community leaders on the frontlines of the environmental crisis. Together, you’ll delve into the heart of the environmental crisis, examining the systems and policies behind the persistent environmental dangers in Massachusetts and identifying effective strategies to advance environmental justice in your community.
Upon program completion, you'll become an Andrew Dreyfus Community Leadership Fellow, joining our Lifetime Community of Practice, which unites hundreds of past program participants. You’ll get to collaborate with passionate changemakers and everyday activists who are driving solutions such as introducing legislation at the state house, innovating workplace practices at banks and health providers, and advocating for themselves and their communities.
.jpg)
With our inaugural Environmental Justice cohort launching, click here to learn what three of our past Housing fellows have to say about the Housing Justice Fellowship and their experience with the GenUnity.
Why Join the Program?
Connect with 50 diverse residents passionate about environmental justice
Engage with environmental experts with lived or professional experience
on the issues
Join an extensive network of everyday leaders driving change
Our Advising Partners
“While we may not have fully solved the issue of housing insecurity, we have certainly made a justice deposit, a downpayment to improve the society that our kids and loved ones will inherit."
“GenUnity members helped me connect my research on housing discrimination with a state representative, leading to the introduction of new fair housing legislation in Massachusetts."
Program Overview
Program Kickoff
Program Kickoff
Begin your journey with an in-person kickoff event. Forge relationships, share your stories, and immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere with keynote speakers and a catered meal, setting the tone for an impactful program ahead.
Community partner sessions
Community partner sessions
Attend a biweekly, small-group session with one of our community partners–leaders from the environmental field, local government, and nonprofit sector to deepen your understanding of the climate crisis and build your capacity to advance environmental justice.
Cohort sessions
Cohort sessions
Join fellow program members in biweekly two-hour sessions that delve deep into conversations about the climate ecosystem in Massachusetts. Led by our experienced facilitators, these sessions provide a platform for both small and large group discussions, helping you paint a fuller picture of the challenges and opportunities for change.
Program celebration
Program celebration
Culminate the fellowship by reuniting in person with your newfound community to celebrate your success and the meaningful connections you've established. You’ll also become a member of our Lifetime Community of Practice, giving you continued engagement opportunities with GenUnity members and community partners through post-program events and workshops.
Fellowship Costs and Stipends
Employer Sponsorship: Thanks to our partnership with the Commonwealth Corporation Workforce Training Fund Express program, most businesses can sponsor their employees for free!
- If you believe your employer might be interested in sponsoring you, either through this partnership or with their own funds, let us know in your application.
- If you’re an employer interested in sponsoring your employees, you can reach out to reach out to our team at JoinUs@genunity.org
Scholarships and Stipends: We offer scholarships and stipends up to $30/hour for program members who require financial assistance.
Fellowship Schedule
Mark these important dates and times in your calendar so you don’t miss any of our program events and sessions:
September 20, 2025
Every other Thursday, 6 - 8 PM ET, September 25 - November 13
One hour per week, biweekly, flexible to your schedule
November 20, 2025
September 20th, 2025
Every other Thursday, 6-8 PM ET, Sept 25th - Nov 13th
One hour per week, biweekly, flexible to your schedule
November 20th, 2025
Join the Movement for Housing Justice
Our housing program creates a space for shared learning, generating ideas, and, most importantly, taking strategic action to tackle the complexities of housing injustice.
Our approach centers people who have been directly impacted by systemic housing inequities, shifting power to those most affected while fostering the relationships needed for meaningful change.
With our program, participants not only gain the knowledge and skills but also build the relationships and agency to advance housing justice and influence decisionmakers.
Fellowship Application Process
Ready to make a real impact in the fight against the environmental injustices? Take the first step by filling out this application today.
If your application is a good fit, we’ll be in touch to schedule a 20-minute interview, where we can get to know you better.
More Ways to Make a Difference
GenUnity offers a growing range of programs to help participants tackle the issues that matter most to them and promote a more just future.
Whether it’s advocating for healthcare or community-centered solutions, our programs enable members to take strategic steps toward creating positive change in their neighborhoods, workplaces, and society.
Join our newsletter!
The Greater Boston Area is home to some of the world’s most renowned medical schools, hospitals, and innovators in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Yet, in the shadow of these institutions, the residents of Boston face stark health inequities that result in poor health outcomes — particularly in historically marginalized communities.
Download our whitepaper to learn more about the Health Equity landscape in Greater Boston, the inherent challenges in its ecosystem, and the solutions that can illuminate a path towards progress and meaningful change.
.png)
