Susan Donovan

Native plants provide food and shelter for local wildlife and help ecosystems adapt to change. I will choose native plants for my yard, balcony, or community space instead of non-native or ornamental species to support biodiversity resilience.

Too much artificial light can confuse and harm animals, especially those active at night. I will reduce sources of outdoor light or switch to wildlife-friendly fixtures to support healthy habitats.

Fallen leaves, logs, and brush provide shelter and food for wildlife. I will leave natural features in my yard or community space to help strengthen biodiversity and soil resilience.

Rainwater collection reduces water waste and supports local needs. I will install a rain barrel or collect rainwater to use for outdoor tasks, such as watering plants or cleaning.

Dishwashers can save water — if used wisely. I will only run the dishwasher when it’s full and skip the pre-rinse to reduce water and energy use. If I don't have a dishwasher, I will turn off the tap as often as possible while washing dishes.

Mulching helps soil hold water and reduces runoff. I will mulch the base of trees or other plants at home, school, or in my community to improve water retention and soil health.

Donate shoes at MCI’s shoe recycling event to support local reuse and responsible recycling. Footwear in any condition is accepted. Reusable shoes will be cleaned and distributed to people in need, and shoes that can’t be reused will be recycled into materials such as playground mulch. (See HR email for details.) If you’re not at MCI, consider doing a spring cleaning of your closet and dropping off gently used clothing for donation.

Regular health check-ups help prevent problems before they start. I will schedule or attend a medical, dental, or mental health check-up to take care of my well-being.

Working together builds resilience and pride in the places we care about. I will participate in 1 community projects such as a cleanup or local beautification project that strengthens connections and shared purpose.

Join a Lunch & Learn to get to know a local organization that supports our community and/or the environment. If your site does not host an official Lunch and Learn, spend 30 minutes independently learning about a local organization and its impact.

Join a Lunch & Learn to get to know a local organization that supports our community and/or the environment. If your site does not host an official Lunch and Learn, spend 30 minutes independently learning about a local organization and its impact.

Reflection helps us adapt and grow. I will spend 10 minutes writing in a journal about challenges I face, the strengths I use, and what helps me thrive.

Good sleep is essential for a healthy body and mind. I will prioritize getting 30 minutes of quality sleep each night and develop a bedtime routine that supports rest and relaxation.