How one La Crosse organization is shaping a greener future

June 11, 2025

By La Crosse Community Foundation

Carrie Thompson and Sustainability Institute connect people, ideas, and action

Picture a community where clean air and fresh water aren’t just a dream but a shared goal. The Sustainability Institute, led by Executive Director Carrie Thompson, is on a mission to make that vision a reality. Since 2012, the institute has connected people, ideas, and actions to create a brighter, greener future. From protecting local ecosystems to promoting healthier ways of living, the institute is building a sustainable foundation for generations to come.

What are the Inspiring Sustainability Awards, and why do they matter?  

The annual Inspiring Sustainability Awards honors leaders who have inspired sustainable action in our community and beyond. Each year, we proudly recognize one individual and one organization for their exceptional contributions to sustainability. This year’s winners were Andrew Ericson, UW-La Crosse’s sustainability program manager, and Habitat for Humanity of the Greater La Crosse Region.

This vibrant and unifying event brings together community members, strengthening our shared commitment to sustainability and building lasting connections. Celebrating and acknowledging the dedication and hard work behind these achievements not only energizes those leading the way but also sparks inspiration and motivation for others to act.

What drew you to this work, and how do you live out the mission personally?

What drew me to this work is the desire to give back to my community and contribute to building something better for all. I’m fortunate to work alongside many inspiring leaders, changemakers, and organizations focused on creating a brighter future.

In my daily life, I often reflect on the mantra “give more, take less,” which aligns with my commitment to sustainability. By being mindful of my resources, caring for nature, and supporting those around me, I’m able to live out these values. I love sharing these lessons with my kids, helping them understand the importance of building a community that thrives together.

How can we individually impact the global effort toward a more sustainable future?

Sustainability often feels overwhelming, focusing on doom and gloom, which can lead to inaction. However, getting started can be the hardest part. Our goal is to help our community shift their mindset to envision what a thriving, sustainable community looks like, catalyzing and inspiring action.

Resources like the Good Life Goals (see https://www.goodlifegoals.org) provide practical steps people can take to make a difference. Taking action, no matter how small, adds up and inspires others to join, creating cumulative impacts. When we take responsibility for our individual contributions, we help spark positive transformation. By getting started and staying consistent, we are adding to a whole collective change.

How can sustainability efforts help us grow and strengthen community bonds?

Sustainability efforts are a great way to grow and strengthen community bonds by encouraging collaboration, building trust, and bringing people together to work toward a common goal. When we come together for shared initiatives, we can form deeper connections, support each other, and improve both individual and community well-being.

One example of our programming that supports this is the Green Goose Chase, an interactive scavenger hunt that invites people to learn about sustainability while having fun and building relationships. The event also connects participants with nearly 20 local organizations and businesses, showing ways to offer support or get involved with their work. By working together on initiatives like this, we’re helping to create a more resilient and sustainable community with a strong sense of shared purpose.

For more information about the Sustainability Institute, visit sustaininstitute.com.

Reprinted with permission from the La Crosse Tribune.