Executive Orders Should Not Circumvent Congressional Authority

On January 29th, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rescinded an order from the White House that called for federal agencies to cease disbursement of all grants, loans, and other financial assistance with limited exceptions. Even with mixed messaging coming from the administration about the fate of current funding, it has remained clear that funding for programs that provide food and childcare for young children, community health services, housing, and so many other vital programs remain at risk.

“We cannot let spending freezes and uncertainty continue because even short term disruptions in funding can have a permanent and negative impact on our communities. It is vital that all federal agencies be allowed to continue operating programs that have already been authorized and funded by the Congress of the United States.” — FACS Executive Director Christopher Topoleski

FACS in Richmond for Conservation Lobby Day

On January 22nd, FACS made a strong impact at the Virginia Conservation Network’s annual Conservation Lobby Day. With Bryan Scrafford taking the lead as FACS' first Advocacy Director, FACS advocated for vital data center and solar energy reform to over 15 Northern Virginia state legislators. This marks a key milestone for FACS as a co-host for Conservation Lobby Day and as a strong, influential voice in Virginia on the state level.

Want to Make a Difference? Volunteer with Us!

Looking for a meaningful way to make a difference in your local community? Get involved in grassroots lobbying, help us select this year’s Sustainability Champions, support our outreach to diverse faith communities, or lend a hand at Earth Day and spring tabling events. Whether you're passionate about advocacy, community engagement, or event support, there’s a role for you. Join today and be part of the movement for a more just and sustainable future!

DEQ Community Survey: 2025 Virginia Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP)

The Department of Environmental Quality is conducting a simple anonymous survey to shape greenhouse gas reduction plans for Virginia’s Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP). This will be a longer-term statewide plan over 25 years and will consider existing goals and requirements for reducing GHG emissions while increasing clean energy generation.

Faith in Action – Mobilizing for Climate Solutions

Did you know that it takes about 3.5% of a population ACTIVELY pushing for change for it to happen? Passionate advocates like you make this future possible. Whether it’s through diligently calling your elected officials, talking with your neighbors, or engaging in one of FACS’ 5 active Advocacy Hubs, be part of the 3.5% that makes a healthy planet possible.

Free Clothing Pop-Up Shop

Sun | Feb 2 | 12-4 PM | In-Person (Arlington)

Choose sustainability over fast fashion with free, gently used clothes! Thanks to generous clothing donations from our Climate Crisis Forum and our Partners, Arlington Students for Climate Action is hosting a free clothing pop-up at Washington-Liberty High School’s Cafeteria, 1301 N Stafford St., Arlington VA 22201. All students and community members are welcome; no registration required. Arlington Students for Climate Action is a FACS’ 2024 Sustainability Champion.

Meet Arlington's Assistant County Manager for Climate Policy

Thurs | Feb 6 | 7-8:30 PM | Virtual

Join our Arlington Hub for an evening with Jennifer Fioretti, Arlington's new Assistant County Manager for Climate Policy. Jennifer will discuss the role of Arlington County’s Office of Climate Policy and opportunities for residents to support this important work. There will be a Q&A after the presentation. This event is organized by EcoAction Arlington in partnership with Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions and the Sierra Club Potomac River Group.

Support Our 2025 Polar Bear Plunge Team & “Keep Winter Cold!”

Sat | Feb 8 | 10:30 AM-2:30 PM | @National Harbor, MD

Get ready to plunge with us! We’re partnering with the Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN)’s 20th annual Polar Bear Plunge and leading a team that will jump into National Harbor on February 8, 2025, for a winter swim. Just like a charity walk or run, Plungers accept donations from their friends and family—all funds raised will support FACS and CCAN’s vital climate work. CCAN’s Polar Bear Plunge is a day of family-friendly fun with free food, music, games, a costume contest, and more!

Third Annual Conference for Spanish-Speaking Landscape Professionals

Thurs | Feb 20 | 9 AM-1 PM | @Fairfax County Government Center

FACS is proud to sponsor Plant NoVA Natives’ annual conference for Spanish-speaking landscape professionals. Discover how incorporating native plants and natural landscape management can help attract more clients. This conference—conducted entirely in Spanish—is free, provides lunch, and is open to homeowners, designers, foremen, laborers, and garden center staff.

The Home Grown National Park: Creating Habitat in Our Own Yards

Sun | Mar 9 | 12:30-3:00 PM | @Mount Vernon Unitarian Church

Join us for an inspiring talk from Doug Tallamy, renowned entomologist and best-selling author of Nature’s Best Hope. Tallamy will share his compelling vision for The Homegrown National Park, a national challenge to create diverse ecosystems in our yards, communities, farms, and surrounding lands. Learn how reducing lawns and planting native trees, shrubs, and perennials can help repair the devastating loss of native species—all while adding beauty to your surroundings.

There’ll be a book signing and the opportunity to talk with local experts about planting natives. Spaces are limited and only $10 per person—register today and be part of the movement to create habitats that nurture life!

Fairfax County Hub Updates

As the 2025 General Assembly session begins, FACS’ Fairfax Hub is actively supporting legislation to make renewable energy more accessible in Virginia, help ensure data centers hit certain renewable energy standards before receiving tax exemptions, and several other key issues impacting our communities. 

In their January Hub meeting, they discussed what priorities and actions they’d like to take as a Hub for 2025. If you weren’t able to attend the meeting, or simply want to reinforce your comments from the meeting, fill out this form to weigh in. In the coming months, the Hub will continue engaging with the county’s delegation to the General Assembly through the rest of the legislative session and identifying priorities they want to address at the local level through the county’s budget and other measures.

Important notice: In addition to their virtual monthly meeting on Thursday, February 20th, the Hub will be sharing opportunities to attend public hearings on the county’s comprehensive plan and the proposed budget.

Loudoun Hub Updates

FACS’ Loudoun Hub relaunched this past Sunday, January 26, at Leesburg Presbyterian Church with around 15 advocates. Executive Director Christopher Topoleski shared about FACS’ key programs for congregations and Advocacy Director Bryan Scrafford talked about FACS involvement in Richmond for VCN’s annual Conservation Lobby Day. Small group discussions were held to learn about each advocate’s passions, their congregation’s environmental work, and what they would like to see in the future. A representative from Loudoun County government spoke about the county’s energy and environmental activities.

Moving forward, the Loudoun Hub will meet monthly. Join the “Loudoun County” FACS Hub to stay in the loop and get connected with other advocates near you!