Even though equality and equity are often used interchangeably, there is a big difference between the two terms. Equality denotes that everyone is treated the same and has access to the same opportunities. Equity refers to proportional representation in those same opportunities. Social equity makes sure that everyone, despite their race, gender, cultural background, religious background, etc has equal access to the opportunities that would allow them to pursue the life of their choosing.
Below are some local and state organizations that are striving to help our community achieve social equity – for those who need help and those who want to help.
Published in: Community Eye Health Journal Vol. 29 No. 93 2016 www.cehjournal.org
Mutual Aid
There are some wonderful programs in our community designed for the voluntary reciprocal exchange of resources and services for mutual benefit.
Southpaw Cafe and Community Space
NRV Elderly (including disabled and immunocompromised)
Social Assistance
Our community offers a wide range of social assistance programs to support those in need.
Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry
Housing Crisis Hotline: 540-639-3159
Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley
Montgomery County Emergency Assistance Program
Montgomery County Christmas Store
Blacksburg Refugee Partnership
Environmental Justice
Environmental justice strives to improve and maintain a clean and healthy environment, especially for people who have traditionally lived, worked, and played closest to the sources of pollution. Many organizations are working to achieve this goal, including the following local/state groups:
Virginia Environmental Justice Collaborative
Sierra Club – Virginia Chapter
Social Equity Updates
2022 Small Grants to Preserve and Enhance Sustainable Living
The mission of Sustainable Blacksburg (SB) is to preserve and enhance sustainable living in Blacksburg and environs by promoting clean energy, smart growth and mobility, ecological integrity, social equity, and reduction of waste (especially carbon emissions, and pollution). To encourage others to assist in accomplishing this mission, SB will be awarding (up to) four grants of up to $500 each during…
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Learn More About Blacksburg’s Climate Vulnerability Assessment!
How hot is too hot and when does it become a problem? How wet is too wet and when does it become a problem?How do these and other anticipated changes to the climate intersect?How should localities like Blacksburg plan and adapt? Come learn about the climate vulnerabilities Blacksburg will be facing in the coming years and…
Keep readingSmall Grants to Preserve and Enhance Sustainable Living
Our Mission To preserve and enhance sustainable living in Blacksburg and environs by promoting clean energy, smart growth and mobility, ecological integrity, social equity, and reduction of waste (especially carbon emissions, and pollution). Did you know Sustainable Blacksburg has started a small grant program!? To encourage others to assist in accomplishing this mission, Sustainable Blacksburg will be awarding up to three…
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