Looking back over the past 12 years, it is clear Sustainable Fairfax has made many significant contributions to the community, helping residents and policymakers deepen their committment to sustainability principles. State Senator Mark Leno recently affirmed these accomplishments in a Certificate of Recognition.

Moving forward, the organization continues its dedication to this important work with a new board of directors: Acting Executive Director Elizabeth Baker; Co-Presidents Jen Jones and Kathleen Lanphier; and Vice President Sheila McNulty. Continuing board members: Treasurer Boog Bookey; Development - Wendy Baker; Projects - Renee Goddard; Education - Julie Dashiell and Rachel DeMicco; and Communications - Jennifer Hammond, with invaluable support from committee members Paul Konikowski (social media) and Merrell Maschino. Former President Stacy Weinberg-Dieve will continue her involvement with the organization as the Executive Operations Advisor and Community Health Advocate, focusing on the reduction of toxins in our homes and our environment.

These experienced and talented members are deeply committed to the organization and to the community. They meet monthly in the upper unit of the building the organization has been leasing at 141 Bolinas Rd. The building is currently up for sale, but Sustainable Fairfax continues to use the space for its meetings and administration and still maintains the sustainable backyard.

The board is currently busy making plans for 2012, including efforts to move Fairfax toward zero-waste. Fairfax and other towns in Ross Valley are now eligible to receive grant funding annually from the county to complete ordinances and outreach for the community educating people on direct steps to bring our towns closer to zero waste. Fairfax leads the county with a declared date of 2020 to accomplish these required actions. Sustainable Fairfax will play a leading role as it partners with the town to achieve its goals. With a new progressive garbage contract, Fairfax is taking bold steps in the right direction.

In addition to waste reduction, Sustainable Fairfax focuses on issues related to toxics, food, water conservation, transportation and energy. The organization’s theme for 2011 was “Localization” and the board is currently developing its theme for 2012.

The last event for 2011 is a Holiday Craft Fair this Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Fairfax Pavilion, hosted by Sustainable Fairfax and Fairfax FOCAS. The admission-free event will feature unique and sustainable handmade gifts crafted by local artisans, fair-trade products, live music from local artists including Singing Bear, and educational crafts and activities for all ages.

Sustainable Fairfax receives support from individual members and private foundations that believe in its mission. Recently, it has received generous donations from the Rose Foundation’s Grassroots Fund and the Unbroken Chain Foundation, a nonprofit organization created “to generate support for, and public awareness of, groups and individuals that bring hope and inspiration to communities where great need exists.”