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Resources for Communities: RASCL and Your Sustainable Future

Written on: December 11th, 2024 in Education and Outreach, Natural Resources

By Jana Savini, Coastal Collaboration Coordinator, Partnership for the Delaware Estuary and RASCL Coordinator

The Delaware Resilient and Sustainable Communities League (RASCL) is a collaborative network of state agencies, nonprofits, and academic institutions that are dedicated to enhancing the resilience and sustainability of Delaware communities. By addressing climate challenges and capacity limitations, RASCL brings partners together, leverages limited resources, and coordinates efforts to empower local communities to implement effective, long-term resilience and sustainability initiatives.

RASCL serves as a hub for technical expertise and resources, uniting diverse partners under a shared vision of a resilient and sustainable Delaware. Through collaboration, RASCL addresses critical issues such as climate change, coastal resilience, sustainable land use planning, and resource management. Its outreach initiatives include free technical assistance, resource guides, information sharing, and community engagement, making RASCL a valuable resource for those navigating complex environmental challenges.

Who is RASCL?

The Resilient and Sustainable Communities League (RASCL) is an ad-hoc network of 28 member organizations. Its members represent diverse fields, including coastal resilience, natural resource management, energy, transportation, housing, emergency response, mental health, and outreach, among others. The network offers benefits beyond the capacity of individual organizations, such as programs tailored to support the practitioners, enhanced outreach efforts, and strategic networking opportunities. These efforts foster purposeful, mutually beneficial relationships that drive long-term success and sustained collaboration.

Key Initiatives

Project Guidance Group

The Project Guidance Group provides hands-on assistance to Delaware communities in planning and executing projects that enhance sustainability and resilience. Acting as a bridge between local communities and available resources, the group offers free technical support, information sharing, and connections to subject-matter experts. This collaborative approach ensures projects are effectively implemented and deliver lasting benefits to communities.

Developing a Community Sustainability Plan Resource Guide

To support local governments in creating sustainability plans, RASCL has developed a comprehensive guidance document. This resource serves as a framework for municipalities to craft strategies balancing environmental, social, and economic priorities. The guide emphasizes integrating sustainability and resilience, addressing potential climate impacts, and offering actionable steps. It is designed to be adaptable, empowering local leaders to tailor it to their unique needs and challenges.

Coffee Hours

RASCL Coffee Hours provide opportunities for information sharing and professional networking, fostering collaboration across diverse sectors. Held quarterly at various locations throughout the state, these events are offered both in-person and virtually to accommodate a wide audience. Each Coffee Hour features presentations that highlight best practices, emerging topics, innovative projects, funding opportunities, and more.

2025 RASCL Summit

RASCL’s Annual Summit is a cornerstone event that convenes professionals, community members, government agencies, and elected officials to address critical issues impacting Delawareans. Serving as a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation, the summit promotes a unified and proactive approach to community resilience and sustainability. Attendees can explore best practices, gain insights from successful projects, and engage with experts on pressing climate change challenges.

The 8th Annual RASCL Summit will take place on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at the Del-One Conference Center in Dover, DE. Registration information is available on their webpage.

Collaborative Impact

RASCL’s success is rooted in its extensive network of member organizations and community partners. These partnerships ensure that RASCL’s initiatives are informed by cutting-edge research, diverse perspectives, and practical expertise. By leveraging these collaborative relationships, RASCL delivers innovative solutions that address the unique needs of Delaware’s communities.

For more information about RASCL’s programs and resources, be sure to browse their website. Ready to get involved and find out more? Sign up for their mailing list!

Tags: Climate Change, Education