To ensure vulnerable multifamily affordable housing, which is home to some of Boston’s most socially and economically underserved residents, is ready to withstand future climate shocks.

Lessons learned about tools and tactics through the project that other sustainability directors could use to advance their work.

The most effective step to building relationships is taking the time to discuss shared goals and identify what is most valuable to that community. Once priorities are identified by community-based partners, it is best to tailor resiliency opportunity assessments and emergency preparedness plans accordingly. For instance, a plan may look very different for a senior building versus a family complex.

Working together is additive – delegating tasks make the job lighter. The project team did this with partners at the state clean energy agency. It enabled everyone to connect and share notes from interviews with clean energy companies to double research and outreach efforts.

Lessons for developing a collaborative process between a local government sustainability director and local place-based foundation(s).

Regular check-ins/communication among the local funder and local government stakeholders is critical to a successful collaboration. An example of this from the project was when the local funder connected with the City to let them know where they stood on a green jobs related proposal. They were able to share important federal funding opportunities to target.