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The Blog of NSR

Program: Launch

The Mon Water Project

Our Watershed: The hidden creek beneath us…

Water is constantly involved in any single stage of the Water Cycle.  Be it rain, condensation, snow, or a flowing river, water is on the move.  When it is moving, water always flows downhill.

In the beginning it may only be the trickle of a spring, coming up from the Groundwater.  As you follow the flow of that crick over hollows and hills, that basin ridge outline is called a Watershed.  Watersheds are the collection points for all the water as it flows off the land in a river system.

In an urban and developed city like Pittsburgh, those watersheds are still here, however they now are hidden below our feet, in pipes.  We call them sewersheds, and they connect us, from the highest hill to the point of our three rivers.  Sewersheds follow all the same rules as watersheds.

The Mon Water Project will focus on the watershed basin, flowing through a sewershed, along the Monongahela River.

Our Basin: The geography of our watershed…

The Mon Water Project is home to 4 Mile Run (4MR), a watershed/sewershed located four miles from the point in Pittsburgh on the Monongahela river. Both sewers and cricks in the Oakland, Greenfield, Squirrel Hill, Schenley Park, and Hazelwood neighborhoods flow through this pipe system. This pipe system is hidden beneath our feet, under roads, houses and sidewalks.

On dry days, the water in these pipes flows down under Greenfield Avenue, making its way through larger and larger pipes ,deep underground, to the Allegheny County Sewer Authority (ALCOSAN). That is our regional WasteWater Treatment facility. There it is treated and released in the Ohio River.

On Wet days, the entire system’s contents flow out into the Monongahela River through the M-29 outfall, a big discharge pipe, under Hazelwood Green. Similar, smaller unnamed streams and pipes are under and throughout Hazelwood. They discharge on wet days to individual outfalls counting up to M-40, near Glen Hazel. Combined, these systems make up the Monongahela peninsula of Pittsburgh and the Basin for the Mon Water Project.

Our Spring Water: The trickle of an Idea…

The MWP creates connections across governments, agencies, non-profits, businesses, and residents to direct resources to develop and implement integrated water resource plans based on One Water principles in 4MR and neighboring watersheds.

Our Groundwater: The foundation to build from…

MWP will use principles based on a philosophy known as One Water.  One Water is the focus on all aspects of water, with equal value and importance, seeing the water cycle as continuous, and water systems as overlapping. This approach removes traditional water permitting “silos” and allows a community to address many issues at once.

Our Tributaries: Working together as a community…

Our work centers environmental justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion as we build community power for the management of our watersheds.

Our Floodwater: The challenges of urban restoration are substantial…

Over five years ago, Pittsburgh Water Sewer Authority was looking to address flooding, manage stormwater, rehabilitate old infrastructure, and decrease water pollution to the Monongahela river. They began the design, modeling, and implementation of the 4 Mile Stormwater Project.  The project is hoping to improve the quality of life, protect property, and change the hydrology of a watershed affecting the lower half of the neighborhood in Greenfield, known as the micro-neighborhood “In the Run.” The Run historically floods with only a half inch of rainfall. It isn’t just any flooding, its manhole popping raw sewage that flows directly into homeowner basements, central streets, and neighborhood cornerstone businesses. Residents in The Run neighborhood have had to silently endure the issues for years.  When the PWSA 4MR Stormwater Project was being developed, the residents of The Run worked hard to advocate for their community needs.  With a unified voice they asked for real and last solutions.

Our Water. Our Work.

The Mon Water Project will build on the current ‘swell’ of resident and organizational movements that grew from the 4MR Stormwater Project. MWP will work to develop a unified strategy for ALL our water resources, partner to implement projects that protect the residents of our most vulnerable communities, and build an educated coalition of neighbors that advocate for science based solutions in our cricks and hollows.

The path forward is clear (unlike the muddy waters of the Monongahela) and with the support of New Sun Rising as a fiscal sponsor, starting in October 2022, The Mon Water Project is ready to officially launch.  Follow us, join us, and support us as we flow towards a future that is truly sustainably alongside the Monongahela River.

Will you join us?

Donate Here

Boom & Bust

Watch as seven residents of western PA travel to the Gulf Coast region to explore what it looks like to live alongside a petrochemical plant. Take a journey along with them as they ask the hard questions and wrestle with the complex history of our past and issues facing Beaver County’s future.

Boom & Bust is produced by RiverWise, in association with New Sun Rising and the Genesis Collective, and created by filmmaker Christopher Padgett of Human City Creative. The project is completely self-organized and self-funded.

Many local community and environmental organizations play an important role in helping residents become more informed and inspired about the public health impacts of industry. While these efforts are very important, the Boom & Bust film was not conceived primarily as a public health, environmental science, or activist project. The goal of the film was to travel to Louisiana, witness what people were experiencing, and to share reflections on what we learned.  During the screening events we will capture audience feedback in order to strengthen community connections and mobilize citizen action.

 

Watch the Trailer

Read the FAQs

Share Community Feedback

 

Screening Schedule

Thursday, July 28th, 2022 at 7 pm 

Iron Horse Theater, 348 Maplewood Ave, Ambridge, PA 15003

 

Monday, August 8th, 2022 at 7 pm

Virtual Screening via Zoom, Register for the August 8th event

A conversation will be held after this screening for those who wish to participate.

 

Wednesday, August 10th, 2022 at 7 pm

The Tull Family Theater, 418 Walnut St., Sewickley, PA 15143, Register for the August 10th event

Concessions will be available for purchase from the Tull Theater during the screening. 

Drinks and conversation are scheduled at the conclusion of this screening for those who wish to participate.

 

Tuesday, August 23rd, 2022 at 7 pm

Phipps Conservatory – Botany Hall, 1 Schenley Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, Register for the August 23rd event

Drinks and a conversation are scheduled at the conclusion of this screening for those who wish to participate.

 

 

This project is inspired by

strengthening community movement by challenging prevailing narratives

Solar Workforce + Education Program

The Solar Workforce + Education Program is located at the Millvale Food + Energy Hub, and includes a variety of learning and training programs. The Hub’s state-of-the art 26 kwH microgrid, coupled with an advanced power control system, building automation, and Energy Discovery Zone, serves as a learning tool for a wide range of abilities, age ranges, and interests: from the casual to highly technical.

The facility offers opportunities for students, adults, and industry professionals to examine the emerging role of clean, renewable energy in promoting sustainability, career pathways, and reducing the damage caused to our environment and health by carbon-based energy generation.

The Solar Energy Workforce + Education Program consists of:

  • Solar Energy Workforce offers training, certification, and hands on experience with a professional solar installer to prepare small, local electrical contractors and others for entry into the growing clean energy industry

    Interested in Becoming a Solar Installer? Submit an Interest Form

  • Teen Solar Fellowship introduces students to the technical skills, career experiences, and valuable connections that can help them to succeed in the installation industry or as a stepping stone to higher education.
  • Energy Discovery Zone provides educational opportunities through microgrid system demonstration, solar and electrical STEM learning tools, and an interactive microgrid dashboard for teens, adults, and industry professionals

 

 

The project is spearheaded by New Sun Rising and Moose MODE Inc, in partnership with the Triboro Ecodistrict and Millvale Ecodistrict Collaborative. Funding provided by the Henry L. Hillman Foundation. System contractors include: EIS Solar, Steel City Energy Conservation, Sigma Luminous, GRID Institute at University of Pittsburgh, and AYA Instruments.

Solar Workforce Training Flier-1
Status of PA's Solar Workforce(5)

Launch Sustainability Grant

The Vibrancy Funds support people building culture, sustainability, and opportunity within their community.

New Sun Rising ran this funding opportunity in 2018 to launch organizations and collaborations who build Vibrant Communities. Through the generous support of the Henry L. Hillman Foundation, the following program seeks proposals which promote innovation, engagement, and equity in the Pittsburgh region.

LAUNCH SUSTAINABILITY

New Sun Rising believes that developing the community software (people + connections) and hardware (physical infrastructure) is critical to enhance natural systems and quality of life in our region. By improving the coordination of available resources, we help early stage projects improve sustainability in their community.

Projects which enhance community sustainability are encouraged to apply for a $5,000 to $8,000 Launch Sustainability Grant. While not necessary to apply, preference may be given to NSR Vibrant Communities (Allentown, Beltzhoover, Etna, Knoxville, McKees Rocks, Millvale, Northside neighborhoods, Sharpsburg, Stowe Township, Wilkinsburg), NSR fiscally sponsored projects, and Ignite Sustainability workshop participants.

In addition to the grant, Launch Sustainability Grantees will receive six months of support including:

  • Monthly coaching with subject matter experts
  • Access to project development resources
  • Support to strengthen their business plan or grant proposal

Questions will be answered by emailing vibrancyfunds@newsunrising.org or attending one of the following information sessions at the Millvale Moose, 112 Sherman St, Milllvale, PA 15209:

  • July 17, 2018 from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
  • August 8, 2018 from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM

Projects supported by this grant can start September 1st, 2018 and must end by March 30th, 2019.

CRITERIA

In acknowledgment of the importance and role of sustainability in our rapidly changing region, successful applicants will be established non-profit (or fiscally sponsored) organizations with a project demonstrating the following:

Equity: activities are aligned with, help to identify, or create community values
Collaboration: creates connections or opportunity for those with barriers
Adaptability: incorporates human-centered design by positioning clients as decision makers

Application deadline is 11:59 PM on August 10th, 2018. Grantees will be notified on August 20th, 2018.

Launch Culture Grant

The Vibrancy Funds support people building culture, sustainability, and opportunity within their community.

New Sun Rising is pleased to announce a new funding opportunity to launch organizations and collaborations who build Vibrant Communities. Through the generous support of the Henry L. Hillman Foundation, the following program seek proposals which promote innovation, engagement, and equity in the Pittsburgh region.

LAUNCH CULTURE

New Sun Rising believes that embracing the unique characteristics and knowledge of people is critical to promoting equitable change in our region. By building awareness of our culture, we can better understand the shared values that lead to trust and resiliency.

Projects which engage, explore, or express culture in their communities are encouraged to apply for a $5,000 to $10,000 Launch Culture Grant. While not necessary to apply, preference may be given to NSR Vibrant Communities (Allentown, Beltzhoover, Etna, Knoxville, McKees Rocks, Millvale, Northside neighborhoods, Sharpsburg, Stowe Township, Wilkinsburg), NSR fiscally sponsored projects, and Ignite Culture workshop participants.

In addition to the grant, Launch Culture Grantees will be provided 3 monthly coaching sessions. Questions will be answered by emailing vibrancyfunds@newsunrising.org or attending one of the following information sessions at the Millvale Moose, 112 Sherman St, Milllvale, PA 15209:

  • April 4, 2018 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
  • April 24, 2018 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Projects supported by this grant can start May 1st, 2018 and must end by November 30th, 2018.

CRITERIA

In acknowledgment of the importance and role of culture in our rapidly changing region, successful applicants will be established non-profit (or fiscally sponsored) organizations with a project demonstrating the following:

Equity: activities are aligned with, help to identify, or create community values
Collaboration: creates connections or opportunity for those with barriers
Adaptability: incorporates human-centered design by positioning clients as decision makers

Application deadline is 11:59 PM on April 25th, 2018. Grantees will be notified on May 1, 2018.

Launch Sto-Rox

Catalyzing community change through social businesses, nonprofits, and collaborative initiatives

Launch Sto-Rox is a cohort of startup organizations whose values align with the Sto-Rox community’s priorities for development. Beginning in March 2018, participants will strengthen their business plan, build their leadership, connect with peer and professional networks, access funding, and engage the Sto-Rox community.

 

MEET THE TEAMS

The Joinery supports the development of small businesses and projects through co-working, office, and production space.

Strong Ambitious Women motivates young women to develop self-esteem and a positive identity.

Zellous Hope Project inspires hope for low-income men with barriers to seeking and obtaining employment.

PittMovers provides moving assistance with a personal touch for clients within Allegheny County.

Right Vibez fuses power yoga and dub (instrumental reggae) for a unique energizing and restorative experience in a transformative setting.

Digital Bridges closes the digital divide by using technology and digital literacy skills to decrease poverty and nurture strong social connections.

1st Layer is a branding, design, and printing shop incorporating workforce development training for teens.

Peddler’s Paradise creates a unique space for artisans and craft makers to connect and sell their products.

Gazette 2.0 provides crucial communication resources for the community.

 

ABOUT

Launch Sto-Rox is a Vibrant Communities program of New Sun Rising, held in partnership with the McKees Rocks Community Development Corporation and Focus on Renewal, and supported through the generous support of the Henry L. Hillman Foundation.

Launch Wilkinsburg

Launch Wilkinsburg is a civic innovation lab, supporting the development of a vibrant community through social businesses, nonprofit projects, and community engagement.

Meet the Projects

 

Vibrant Communities Focus

Launch Wilkinsburg is committed to equitable community development and implemented in partnership with the Wilkinsburg Chamber of Commerce.   In order to determine which areas of impact are top priority, we reviewed community planning documents, surveyed stakeholders through our Vibrancy Index, and held an interactive public forum. This local stakeholder insight and discussions identified community values and priorities for development including:

  1. Community Awareness + Engagement
  2. Arts + Culture
  3. Vacant Properties + Lots
  4. Main Street Business Development
  5. Education
  6. Safety + Crime Reduction
  7. Environmental Sustainability
  8. Public Spaces

Additionally, the Ignite Wilkinsburg workshop connected over 30 startup leaders and mentors to further their plans, strategic connections, and identify resources.

Media coverage

Read the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article

KDKA Sunday Business Page

Pittsburgh City Paper

Launch Hilltop

Launch Hilltop is an inspiration dojo, where a collective of passionate, driven entrepreneurs challenge perceptions to drive personal and community change.

Meet the Projects

Vibrant Communities Focus

Following neighborhood discussions and assessment with local stakeholders, the Hilltop neighborhoods anchored by the Allentown business district were selected as New Sun Rising’s second Launch community.

New Sun Rising’s Launch Hilltop provides services and programming to a number of organizations and initiatives committed to promoting inclusive neighborhood redevelopment, in partnership with local stakeholders such as Work Hard Pittsburgh, the Hilltop Alliance, Pgh Works, RE360, and others. New Sun Rising works closely with these partners, businesses and community projects to create positive opportunity and change with the community.

Learn more about the Allentown’s priorities for development through the Equity Cafe series: Discovery, Dream + Design, and Destiny

Listen to audio stories from community members

 

Launch Millvale

Launch Millvale is an civic innovation lab, where socially focused entrepreneurs create new opportunities around the food, energy, water, air, mobility, and equity goals of the community.

Meet the Projects

 

Vibrant Communities Focus

Initially building the local food system, Launch Millvale broadened to support sustainability leaders activating the Millvale EcoDistrict Pivot 2.0 Plan. The EcoDistricts community planning process, led by partner and

renowned Pittsburgh firm evolveEA, brings together citizens, neighborhood organizations, businesses, and local government to develop a unified vision for their community.

Social enterprises and initiatives supported by Launch Millvale receive services such as fiscal sponsorship, growth strategy, and funding. Activities are coordinated by Zaheen Hussain, the Millvale Sustainability Coordinator and NSR Director of Sustainability, in collaboration with the partners of the Millvale EcoDistrict Collaborative (Millvale Community Library, the Borough of Millvale, Millvale Community Development Corporation, and New Sun Rising).

Vibrancy Strategies

Keep up with New Sun Rising

New Sun Rising PO Box 58005
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
 USA

Email:

info@newsunrising.org

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