Measurement Day Was a HUGE Success!

On Thursday, July 16, more than 80 passionate citizen scientists across Northern Virginia took to the roads on one of this summer's hottest days to collect temperature and humidity data. This "Measurement Day" is part of phase one of FACS' Urban Heat Island Mapping Project, in partnership with George Mason University's Virginia Climate Center. 

Check out our recap to see our volunteers in action and a sneak peek at what's coming next (a.k.a. our Climate Crisis Forum).

Looking Back at 2025 with Our Annual Report

“FACS is rooted in a powerful idea: people of faith and goodwill can come together to advance local solutions to the urgent moral challenge of climate change.” — Scott Peterson, FACS Co-Founder & Board Chair

2025 was a year of growth and expanding influence for FACS. We launched our Clergy Council, welcomed our first full-time Advocacy Director, and strengthened our work across Northern Virginia and in Richmond. Our 9th annual Climate Crisis Forum brought together experts to examine rapid data center growth and its potential impact on consumer electricity bills. Our work is far from over, but we are moving in the right direction.

Welcome Our Newest Clergy Council Member: Rev. Dr. Janine Howard

Rev. Dr. Janine Howard has faithfully served as lead pastor at Fairlington UMC, Alexandria, since 2019. Her service in The United Methodist Church began in 1993 on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. She holds both a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary and earned her undergraduate degree in Biology and History.

A dedicated advocate for creation care, Janine is a Virginia Certified Master Naturalist with the Arlington Regional Master Naturalists and previously served on the Virginia Conference (UMC) Board of Church and Society Creation Care Committee. Two of the churches she has served received a Green Church Award. Outside of ministry, Janine enjoys exploring Virginia State Parks and completed the Virginia State Parks Trail Quest Challenge in 2023 with her canine companion, Kobi.

See Watt's Possible: Energy Efficiency Showcase

Sun | August 2 | 11 AM–12 PM | @ Providence Presbyterian Church (Fairfax)

See Watt's Possible at our Energy Efficiency Showcase! This hands-on event will highlight easy, affordable, and practical ways to make your home more energy efficient from simple DIY weatherization tips to appliance upgrades and clean energy options. This event is in partnership with the Chesapeake Climate Action Network.

Interested in hosting a similar event at your congregation? Reach out to [email protected] to learn more about bringing this unique program to your community.

Arlington County Advocacy Hub Meeting

Wed | August 5 | 7–8:30 PM | @Virtual

Join our Arlington Hub for updates on its ongoing advocacy with County and School Board leaders to advance transparency, accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels, and ensure the County is tracking progress toward its climate and environmental goals in capital improvement projects. This meeting will also provide opportunities to get involved in upcoming local advocacy efforts.

Sign up for the “Arlington County” FACS Hub’s mailing list to get connected!

Loudoun County Advocacy Hub Meeting

Wed | August 26 | 7–8:30 PM | @Virtual

As Loudoun County continues to navigate the impacts of rapid data center growth, one local issue we will be working on is how to implement more renewable energy, such as solar. This is also the time to identify community priorities for the 2027 General Assembly and opportunities to take local action.

Fairfax County Advocacy Hub Meeting

Thu | August 27 | 7–8:30 PM | @Virtual

Join the Fairfax Hub for a preview of this fall's advocacy priorities, including local renewable energy campaigns and early planning for the 2027 General Assembly. Learn about upcoming opportunities to take action at both the county and state levels and help shape FACS' advocacy efforts.

Apply for EcoAction Arlington’s 2026–27 EcoAmbassadors Program

EcoAmbassadors is a one-year volunteer training and community engagement program centered on the City of Alexandria and Arlington County's climate action strategies. Volunteers ages 16 and older will learn about reducing energy use and electrifying the home, shifting to eco-friendly transportation choices, and minimizing waste through hybrid training sessions, practicum learning, and self-paced online modules.

The fee for the program is $110 (free for students), and the deadline for applications is August 31. An early bird discount is available for applications submitted by August 17. Fee waivers are available, no questions asked. EcoAmbassadors is managed by EcoAction Arlington and the Virginia Cooperative Extension with support from Arlington County and the City of Alexandria.