Andria Cooley

Strong communities are built on connection and trust. I will reach out to 2 others—friends, colleagues, or neighbors—to check in, have a meaningful conversation, offer support, or to meet someone new near me.

Small acts of kindness and gratitude can brighten someone's day and create a positive ripple effect. I will express gratitude to 2 people or perform 2 random acts of kindness to spread joy and connection.

Every community around the world faces challenges—from natural disasters to economic changes—and find ways to adapt and thrive. I will spend 15 minutes exploring stories of community resilience and reflect on what lessons I can bring to my own community.

Mowing your lawn less — even every two to three weeks — allows flowering plants to bloom, providing bees and other pollinators with the nectar and pollen that they rely on. Decreasing mowing gives flowers a chance to bloom uninterrupted and in greater abundance. Longer grass can also provide other benefits to invertebrates including shelter.

Pesticides are harmful to wildlife, to pets and to human health. Research has linked exposure to pesticides to a range of human health issues, including cancers, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, diabetes and fertility issues.

If you choose to fertilize your lawn, there are several actions you can take to minimize its impacts on water. First, make sure to only use the type and amount of fertilizer your lawn needs, starting with a soil test. Ask questions if a lawn care company applies fertilizer to your lawn. Most universities recommend 3 to 4 fertilizer applications during the growing season. Never fertilize before a rainfall. Of course, there is another option: don’t fertilize at all. You can actually have a healthy lawn by opting not to fertilize.

Pledge to limit your exposure to plastics in one or more of the following ways: - Don't heat your food or beverages in plastic containers or Teflon-coated metals - Avoid using plastic cups, straws, cutlery and storage containers whenever possible - Purchase foods and products with little or no plastic packaging - Don't drink coffee made from K-cups - Use foil instead of plastic wrap; choose glass and metal over plastics

Before buying something new, ask yourself: Can I repurpose or repair something? Can I borrow it? Can I go without? The goal isn’t just to consume “better” but to consume less whenever possible. Make more sustainable purchasing choices: - Avoid single-use items, and invest in reusables - Use secondhand first! Reuse and thrift when possible - Invest in high-quality, durable items - Purchase brands that pay fair wages, minimize waste and use ethical sourcing - Buy in bulk to reduce packaging and shipping - Prioritize experiences before objects - Donate usable items that you no longer need