About Us
Mission:
Sustainable Connections advances a regenerative local economy that builds community, strengthens food systems, catalyzes climate solutions, and expands access to housing in NW Washington.
Vision:
We envision a region of informed and engaged communities where all people have access to fresh local food, live in affordable and healthy housing, make a living doing what they love, and have the lightest possible impact on the environment. We make this vision a reality by leading the transition to a regenerative local economy. Regenerative economies move away from extractive business models and work in harmony with nature and society to foster ecological restoration, community resilience, and social equity.
A Message from Derek Long
After nearly 24 years of leading and growing Sustainable Connections, I’ve made the decision to step down as Executive Director at the end of October. While this was not an easy decision, it comes from a need to find a better work-life balance, focus more on my family, and create space for new leadership to guide Sustainable Connections into its next chapter. As I prepare to transition out of this role, I feel so proud of what we’ve built together. From our early days as a scrappy and passionate group of changemakers with big ideas, to our years of growth into a team of dedicated community builders, it’s been an inspiring journey.
There’s no doubt that the last few years have been eventful; the team has navigated many challenges and transitions, but I leave Sustainable Connections knowing that the organization is stronger than ever. Our programs are thriving, our finances are healthy, and our staff continue to deliver on our mission. We’re making measurable, meaningful impacts in our community and for our shared environment – work that all of us can be proud of.
Over the coming weeks, I’ll be working with our team to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition. Plans are in place to continue the transfer and sale of the Lawrence Road and Cloud Mountain Farm Center properties to incredible community partners who will carry on the farm’s legacy and impact. We hope to publicly announce information about both in the coming months. The board is developing a plan and timeline for identifying the next Executive Director, and I’ll be working closely with them to set the organization up for success.
I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve this community, to collaborate with such a passionate team of staff and board members, and to witness firsthand the difference we’ve made together. Sustainable Connections has always been about connection, between people, businesses, and this incredible region we call home, and I have every confidence those connections will only grow stronger.
Thank you for being a part of this remarkable journey, whether as a partner, donor, volunteer, or community member. It’s been one of the greatest honors of my life to help lead this organization, and I’ll continue to cheer on Sustainable Connections in the years ahead.
I am excited about having time to connect with so many people and organizations I admire and can learn from as I plan the next stage of my career.
With gratitude,
Derek Long
2024 Annual Report
Building a Regenerative Future
In 2024, Sustainable Connections launched our new mission and vision to create tangible impact in Northwest Washington. Our new mission centers regenerative economies, and we’ve spent the last year applying a regenerative lens to food systems, climate solutions, housing access, waste reduction, and community building. Whether it’s empowering local farmers, supporting businesses in energy efficiency, or providing access to fresh food and affordable housing — through collaboration, care, and innovation, we continue to cultivate a regenerative future where everyone can thrive.
2024-2028 Strategic Plan
A roadmap for realizing our vision
Our vision for the future is one of vibrancy, equity, and sustainability. It’s a vision where informed and engaged communities thrive amidst the bounty of their natural surroundings. In this future, every individual has access to fresh, nourishing local food; resides in affordable, healthy housing; pursues livelihoods that bring fulfillment; and embraces lifestyles that minimize harm to the environment.
Our History
