AFC+A’s mission is, “Advancing healthy communities through environmental and cultural justice.” We occupy a unique niche in both the arts and conservation for a reason. Communities of color are disproportionately impacted by environmental and cultural injustices. They are also vastly underrepresented in decision making and policy development related to both. The health benefits of nature and the arts are intricately linked and we believe that improving our planet’s health requires honoring the cultural stories and histories, while engaging in meaningful conservation actions.
We are extremely grateful for the support Americas for Conservation + the Arts (AFC+A) has received since 2008, helping us grow into the organization that we are today: One of the very few Latina founded and led organizations of its mission and size in the state of Colorado — and the country — fighting systemic racism in the conservation and creative workspaces, leveraging arts and culture for DEI gains….
We envision a world where all communities are made whole through nature and culture. Our work advances the immensely powerful healing benefits of nature and the arts.
EcoCultura – Cultural principles that result in improved environmental health
Intersectionality – Applying a holistic approach to improving cultural, environmental, and public health
Justice – Demanding equality of opportunity for all communities
Empowerment – Creating lifelong stewards of the arts and conservation through community leadership
We bring our whole selves to build creative, integrative solutions that enhance your network and achieve real cultural and ecological outcomes.
These honors reflect our dedication to environmental stewardship, cultural enrichment, and community impact.
Award received for Non-Profit Leadership through our Promotores Verdes program.
Award recieved for our “outstanding and innovative” Promotores Verdes Program.
Latinos are on the front lines of the climate crisis, disproportionately affected by pollution and climate-related health issues.
Six of the top 10 most polluted U.S. cities have Latino populations of 40% or more.
66% of Latinos live in areas below EPA air quality standards, with 72% in Colorado.
Hispanic children are 60% more likely to have asthma compared to non-Latino whites.
Latinos are three times as likely to die from asthma as non-Latino whites.
Latinos are 30% more likely to visit the hospital due to asthma compared to non-Latino whites.
1 in 5 Latino adults cannot afford asthma medication, exacerbating health disparities.
Nonwhite communities, including Latinos, experience 40% higher NO2 levels than whites.
Latinos have the highest uninsured rates, with 30% of Hispanics uninsured compared to 10.4% of non-Latino whites.
Our strength lies in the passion and dedication of our leadership, staff, and partners. Every member of our team is committed to driving positive change and making a lasting impact on communities. Many of our staff and board members represent the communities we serve and bring an important perspective to our work.
Passionate and experienced, our team drives our mission of environmental stewardship and cultural inclusivity with a shared vision for positive change.
Our board of directors brings together diverse leaders passionate about conservation and cultural advocacy. Their guidance drives our mission to create a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Our partners are key collaborators who share our vision for environmental and cultural justice. Together, we work to amplify impact and create meaningful change in our communities.
