Foresight Design Initiative is a non-profit organization working toward sustainability transformation in Chicago. Our organizational strategy calls for utilizing two platforms, Foresight Network and Foresight Consulting, to provide the following programs.
Foresight Green Drinks
www.chicagogreendrinks.org
A dynamic mix of networking, socializing, and learning, this monthly event attracts Chicagoans with diverse interests in sustainability. Green Drinks features a moderated panel discussion and an optional ‘power networking’ session. This event is an opportunity to engage with like-minded peers, learn from a knowledgeable panel, and leave inspired to take action.
Chicago Sustainable Business Alliance
www.sustainablechicago.biz
Enterprises in the Chicago Sustainable Business Alliance are dedicated to realizing the benefits of incorporating sustainability principles into products, services, and practices. Members receive discounts to networking events and workshops and direct access to Foresight’s sustainability hub. By connecting like-minded businesses with each other, resources, and learning opportunities, the CSBA helps this community to grow and evolve.
Foresight Immersion
www.foresightdesign.org/immersion
Through hands on assignments for real clients and extensive field experience, Foresight Immersion teaches young professionals the skills and knowledge necessary to help lead the sustainability evolution. This experiential eight-week summer program is designed to train passionate, creative, and dynamic leaders.
Foresight Studio
www.foresightstudio.net
Working with foundation, government, and commercial partners, the Foresight Studio helps clients deeply understand problems and generate holistic solutions. Part consulting entity and part design firm, past projects include a systems analysis of land conservation and an exhibit design on alternative lawns. The Studio’s approach, which is best described as transformative design, integrates disciplines and strives for innovation.
Internships
www.foresightdesign.org/internships
Internships at Foresight provide hand-on research, program development, and graphic design opportunities for students and transitioning professionals who are passionate about sustainability. More staff member than coffee gopher, ideal Foresight interns are self-motivated, resourceful, and responsible. The program, which began with Foresight’s inception, is a valuable part of the organization.
Sustainability Career Workshops
www.foresightcareers.org
Developed by popular demand, this workshop series provides a template for determining your strengths, skills, and potential niches within the sustainability movement. Participants assess their job needs, refine their search strategies, and learn about burgeoning sectors within the field. Individualized courses for both entry level and mid-career/transitioning job seekers are available.
SUSTAINOVATE Conferences
www.sustainovate.org
The debate is over: sustainable business is the future. SUSTAINOVATE conferences—more dynamic and interactive than typical gatherings—empower forward-thinking businesses to evolve better. Participants refine their sustainability-related business agendas and contribute to a larger, collective vision. The next SUSTAINOVATE conference is tentatively scheduled for February 2011.
Sustainability for High School Leaders
www.ecolaunch.org
Promising high school students cultivate their roles as tomorrow’s sustainability leaders in this week-long course. As a collaboration between Foresight and Northwestern University, this program investigates how sustainability informs different sectors of urban life. Through field trips, reading assignments, and group discussions, students explore potential roles in the field and learn how sustainability shapes our world.
Sustainovate Winter-Term
This three-week journey offers comparative analysis of sustainability innovation in Chicago and Amsterdam. Through site visits in both cities, participants explore cutting edge innovation in a broad spectrum of sectors including water, waste, energy, policy, business, transportation, education, and food.
