30 Years of Impact: End of Year Celebration

Dear Downwinder,

Downwinders at Risk turned 30 this year, and with this major milestone came some major changes. Jim Schermbeck, the sole Director of the group since its founding in 1994, retired from the organization in June, and is now leading up his new non-profit “The Organizing School” full time. Caleb Roberts, former Co-Chair of the Board, stepped in as the second ever Director of Downwinders in May and has hit the ground running since day one. 

Misti and I are now the ‘old guard’, since we have been on the Board together for 7 years (!), and we are actively recruiting new Board members to continue stewarding Downwinders into this new phase of its existence. 

Even with these major organizational changes, we have stayed steadfast in our commitment to our campaigns and educational programs, with some demonstrable results in advancing both clean air and better democracy. 

We brought residents from Joppa and West Dallas together in the fight against the “Toxic Twins” this Spring, increasing support from elected officials like State Rep Venton Jones and Senator Anchia to shut down GAF. The most comprehensive environmental justice related land use policy reforms were passed through ForwardDallas, turning the tides for industrial growth in Dallas major environmental justice communities. Councilman Bazaldua has agreed to initiate a zoning change in Joppa to deindustrialize the South Central corridor. Small stuff adds up, and this year demonstrated the big ways it can create systemic change.

None of this would have been possible without YOUR relentless commitment to funding the frontlines and ensuring the demand for our services are met by paying for our staff and programs. Help us close out the year strong with a contribution to our 2025 arsenal. Trump is back and the assault on our rights and environmental protection is too.

Thank you for keeping us working effectively and relentlessly towards environmental justice in North Texas. Here’s to 30 more years of getting s*** done.

In solidarity,

Evelyn Mayo & Misti O'Quinn

Co-Chairs, Downwinders at Risk