Heroes IOBY (In Our Backyards)

Did you know that, right now, there are 35 grassroots environmental projects in the 5 boroughs of New York City? These are projects started by neighborhood groups hoping to inspire environmental action in the city through their efforts. ioby, which stands for in our backyards, is a microphilanthropy website that connects these projects and its organizers with volunteers and environmental enthusiasts who are looking to make an impact. The website provides a list of currently active projects needing volunteers, money, or both, and a platform that’s easily allows individuals to give the support they desire.

Erin Barnes, ioby’s Executive Director and founder, modeled the site after Do Something and wanted to “find a way to get passionate and environmentally conscious people involved in tangible actions.” Actions that are taken at the local level. Since its beta launch in 2009, ioby’s bulletin of projects has attracted over 3,000 supporters and $45,000 in funds for local environmental projects like the P.S. 107 Sunshine Garden. These funds are much needed, as one-third of projects run on a budget of less than $1,000 a year. Although projects are small in scope and limited to a neighborhood, the impact is immediate. ioby’s partner projects are all about getting people involved quickly and directly.

Tomorrow, on November 11, ioby will host its first annual gala, A Benefit in Our Backyards, to honor “heroes” who have been stewards of change in New York City. In addition to “honoring people who’ve helped [ioby] out,” Barnes also hopes to “bring in new supporters so that people can learn about projects and different kinds of innovation and community building.” For its first fundraising event, ioby has set a target of 300 participants and a total of $15,000 raised through the event.

While guests learn about how they can get involved in an environmental project in their neighborhood, they will also enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres provided by Dirt Candy, whose chef owner Amanda Cohen recently challenged Iron Chef Masaaharu Morimoto in a vegetarian battle on Iron Chef America. The event also features its own featured cocktail, “Backyard Blazer”, for you to sip on. Feast, drink, learn, and support at A Benefit in Our Backyards at Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg, Brooklyn all for $65. Get your tickets today!

Photos courtesy of ioby.

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