Meet Alyssa Vandenberg: CCL's Resilience & Education Intern
What Drew Alyssa to Climate Advocacy?
Alyssa's journey into climate advocacy began when she realized the extent of ecological destruction caused by anthropogenic climate change. "It's easy to feel bitter, scared, and helpless in the face of such a large global challenge," she reflects. However, through her studies and involvement in climate advocacy, she discovered that these feelings could be transformed into action. This transformation inspired her to pursue a major in Environmental and Sustainability Studies, allowing her to create tangible positive changes both environmentally and socially, both here in the Citizens; Climate Lobby, as well as at school.
Role with CCL
As this semester's Resilience & Education Intern, Alyssa contributes to CCL's Resilience Hub. This hub provides essential resources for CCL members to develop the personal resilience needed to navigate the tough feelings that often arise in climate advocacy, such as climate anxiety and eco-grief. Alyssa’s responsibilities include assisting with resilience training, organizing events, and creating educational content aimed at sustaining CCL volunteers through their climate work.
Aspirations with CCL
Alyssa hopes to gain personal resilience skills to support her in her climate advocacy journey while helping fellow CCL volunteers do the same. "I believe that by fostering resilience within ourselves, we can more effectively tackle the climate challenges ahead," she shares. Additionally, she aims to gain valuable experience in environmental nonprofit work, which will guide her future career in environmental advocacy. Alyssa expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with CCL staff and volunteers to inspire political action on the climate issues she is deeply passionate about.
Other Interests and Hobbies
Outside of her role with CCL, Alyssa enjoys a variety of activities that enrich her life. She loves playing the piano, visiting museums, spending time in the mountains, and attending concerts. Her passion for the arts extends into her reading preferences; she enjoys literary fiction and is a fan of the music group Boygenius.
One Last Thought
If there’s one word Alyssa would use to describe herself, it would be determined. This determination fuels her commitment to climate advocacy and inspires those around her to join in the fight for a sustainable future.