We don't do our work by ourselves. We can't. Simply Living is indebted to many trailblazing organizations which we consider our elders and sources of inspiration. We are also reliant on our community organizational partners, and we support and celebrate other beneficial groups, especially those in our own bioregions - central Ohio, the Ohio River Valley, the Great Lakes and Appalachia.:
Simply Living's Organizational Partners
WCRS / Bexley Public Radio / Simply Listen Radio
WCRS, Simply Living's radio station is on the air! If you live in northeastern Franklin County, tune in to 102.1 FM. Elsewhere, tune in to 98.3 FM. Also view our current schedule, check out the WCRS Green Radio blog, join our Yahoo group or Contact Us.
Central Ohio Sustainability Alliance
COSA engages in activities and is comprised of organizations that promote sustainability in Central Ohio
Citizens Intent on Reforming Corporate Accountability (CIRCA)
Citizens Intent on Reforming Corporate Accountability (CIRCA) is a grassroots organization whose website and meetings are hosted by the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Columbus, Ohio.They are dedicated to ending corporate control of American economic and political life and to enabling human beings to control their lives by eliminating Corporate Personhood.
Home of the Calumet Natural Foods Co-op, Simply Living Products and Simply Living, the CCM is a true neighborhood center. Meet, eat, get your groceries, or just hang out at the outdoor tables. All are welcome always.
Columbus Green Building Forum
The Columbus Green Building Forum is an organization dedicated to promoting energy-efficient and environment-friendly building practices in Central Ohio.
Community Shares of Mid Ohio
Simply Living is a member of Community Shares, a federation of local nonprofit organizations that supports social justice efforts in Columbus and central Ohio by providing access to workplace findraising campaigns.
Compassionate Communication-Central Ohio
Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a life-changing way of interacting that facilitates the flow of communication needed to exchange information and resolve differences peacefully. The mission of Compassionate Communication-Central Ohio is to promote peace, eliminate violence and work through conflict by systematically using NVC in Central Ohio and beyond. We envision a community where we live in peace and compassion for all.
Environmental Forum of First Community Church
Free Press / Columbus Institute for Contemporary Journalism
Central Ohio's progressive activist newspaper offers current and archived articles, action alerts, and a guide to local activist organizations and progressive businesses.
Free the Planet at OSU promotes and teaches student activism and advocacy in the areas of environment, social responsibility, and cooperation.
Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed
FLOW works to increase public awareness of the recreational, cultural, historic, and environmental resources of the Lower Olentangy Watershed in central Ohio, which includes the Olentangy River from Highbanks Metro Park to its confluence with the Scioto River, plus streams and ravines feeding into the Olentangy. Learn about the river, its resources, events and news, and ways you can be a good watershed neighbor.
The Office of the Environmental Steward was created as part of Mayor Michael B. Coleman's Get Green Columbus initiative. Funded in part with a grant from the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio, the Environmental Steward's Office is dedicated to making Columbus a green community by focusing on Green Businesses, Green Neighborhoods, and Leading by Example.
Low-income rural and urban households, though living in separate worlds, face similar challenges -- and are linked by the food they eat. Local Matters works to create opportunities and forge common bonds, including linking farmers and Head Start families, creating community gardens, instituting projects at schools and colleges, and planning many other educational and practical ways to elevate local people and local foods. Local Matters is a charitable, educational and networking organization whose goal is to ensure that all members of our community have access to affordable, nutritious, fresh and local foods.
Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC)
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) is a voluntary association of governments serving Ohio. A catalyst for regional change, evidence of MORPC's work is seen everyday through planning, programming and brokerage services in the areas of housing, transportation, water, land use, zoning, environmental and technology issues.
This resource catalogs and highlights the history and work of the Your Money or Your Life organization. The New Road Map Foundation offers practical tools and approaches for achieving wholeness in personal finances, health and human relations.
Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association
OEFFA is a membership-based, grassroots organization, dedicated to promoting and supporting sustainable, ecological, and healthful food systems. The OEFFA web site offers a statewide directory of organic growers, articles of interest to farmers and gardeners, and information about OEFFA and its activities.
Ohio Green Living is a collective of individuals, businesses and organizations who are trying to promote green living concepts throughout Ohio.
Sierra Club - Central Ohio Group
The local Sierra Club group's web pages includes updates on local environmental issues, a calendar of events, outings, resources, and links to the national Sierra Club site. Visit, get involved, and stay in touch.
The Simplicity Forum is a think tank of academics and authors, activists and artists, educators and entrepreneurs who seek to promote simplicity in our work and practice it in our lives.
Social Responsibility Initiative (OSU School of Food, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences)
The SRI at OSU is a coordinated, interdisciplinary effort to encourage cutting-edge research on some of the most pressing food, agricultural and environmental issues facing Ohio and the world, from genetically modified foods and environmental quality to urban sprawl and the globalization of agriculture.
The Stratford Ecological Center, located in Delaware OH, maintains a demonstration farm practicing sustainable techniques and offers a wide range of educational, affirming activities for children and adults. Enjoy a refuge there from the everyday and connect with people who are creating healthier, more wholesome ways to grow food and honor the earth.
Sustainable Westerville is about working together to meet environmental needs today without compromising future generations...Its a place to sharing ideas to help Westerville continue to move in the direction of a walkable, bikeable, workable community.
Sustainable Worthington promotes action VERY locally - in Worthington, Ohio. It works on developing a more walkable, bikeable, bus-friendly community; encourages year-round access to locally grown food; supports a greener community; and building of a more vibrant community and local economy. It aims to work with other communities to develop regional sustainability practices.
Alternatives for Simple Living
Since 1973, Alternatives has supplied resources, workshops, campaigns and tools for people of faith who wish to live more simply and responsibly. Christian-based, celebratory, and informed by ecospirituality, Alternatives helps individuals, families, communities and churches to resist the commercialization of what is holy. A prayerful and thoughtful voice for voluntary simplicity.
Center for a New American Dream
How much is enough? Learn why consumption matters, and how to change consumption patterns in support of an adequate standard of living for all the world's people. Center for a New American Dream offers a gateway to related organizations, lists of books, periodicals, and online resources, an article archive, online discussions and great action tips.
A notable organization with an excellent web site, Co-op America offers great resources to help educate and empower individuals and businesses, so that we can use the economic system to effect social and environmental change. Find invaluable tools for consumers, entrepreneurs and investors here.
This beautiful and provocative site from the creators of Earth Island Journal introduces and describes many innovative projects for the environment. Also check here for in-depth coverage of news and issues affecting Earth's environment.
The Northwest Earth Institute offers earth-centered education courses to people in workplaces and communities across the United States. Here in Columbus, Simply Living is proud to offer the Earth Institute courses on Voluntary Simplicity, Deep Ecology and Related Topics, Bioregional Perspective-Exploring Your Natural Community, and Choices for Sustainable Living through the Eastern Heartland Earth Institute.
Positive Futures Network is an independent, nonprofit organization supporting people's active engagement in creating a just, sustainable, and compassionate world.
Take back your Time is a major U.S./Canadian initiative to challenge the epidemic of overwork, over-scheduling and time famine that now threatens our health, our families and relationships, our communities and our environment.
Wiser Earth is a community directory and networking forum that maps and connects non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and individuals addressing the central issues of our day: climate change, poverty, the environment, peace, water, hunger, social justice, conservation, human rights and more
Simply Living's Other Regional & Local Friends
Appalachia: Science in the Public Interest
ASPI, a voice of reason and optimism in central Appalachia, performs research and develops demonstration projects to address the increasing environmental problems of the area and to promote simple living as a means of self-determination. Get in touch with ASPI's outstanding program here.
Appalachian Peace and Justice Network
The Appalachian Peace and Justice Network (APJN), established in 1984, is a non-profit organization that empowers and challenges groups and individuals to work for peace and social justice. APJN currently serves fourteen counties of Appalachian Ohio and West Virginia.
AppalFor: Appalachian Sustainable Forestry
Sustainable forestry intends to establish a strong land-ethic as the basis for forest management. Come learn about appropriate technology, interdependence, and ecology in Appalachian context here.
Blue Rock Station is a Sustainability Center in the heart of Appalachia - featuring an Earthship, straw bale structures, traditional homesteading techniques, heritage and organic gardening... and more. Learn about upcoming workshops and enjoy a virtual visit to Blue Rock Station.
The Buckeye Forest Council is a grassroots nonprofit organizations dedicated to the protection of Ohio's native forestlands and their inhabitants. Learn about the BFC's actions, advocacy and educational projects here. The BFC newsletter Martha's Journal is archived here, along with action alerts and miscellaneous articles relevant to the health of Ohio's forests.
Car Free Day, April 25, is a celebration of healthy travel. Explore and discover alternatives to driving, and the benefits of being car free - clearer air, cleaner water, less noise, and a boost to physical activity.
The Center for Bioregional Living
Offering a demonstration site, courses and consultations. Center for Bioregional Living programs empower people to create abundance, health and regional self-sufficiency through cooperating with nature. As we learn to grow food, support local businesses, enhance biodiversity and become responsible stewards of the Earth, we will create a thriving bioregional economy.
Central Ohio Clean Fuels Coalition
The Central Ohio Clean Fuels Coalition (COCFC) is a non-profit organization based at The Ohio State University Center for Automotive Research. Its mission is to improve air quality, protect health, safeguard our global environment, increase national energy security, and strengthen Ohio’s economy by advancing cleaner, American fuels and energy efficient vehicles.
The Central Ohio Vegetarian Society
COVS is a Columbus-based nonprofit membership organization that promotes the growth and development of a vegan lifestyle. However, you don't have to be vegan to participate in events or become a member - just interested, open-minded, and hungry! Check for current events and other resources on the COVS web site.
Get behind the scenes and learn how to make the most of these Saturday morning events! Here you can not only find out in advance about special features and events planned each week, but you can meet the farmers, learn about the vendors, check out recipes from the Market's own cookbook, and you can sign up to get special announcements via email.
Columbus Area Public Libraries:
Columbus Metropolitan Library
Grandview Heights Public Library
Upper Arlington Public Library
Westerville Public Library
Worthington Public Library
We all support our public libraries, but do we realize just how much value they provide for us in every aspect of our lives? In Ohio, we are fortunate to also have the Ohio Public Library Information Network, a statewide library network with hundreds of resources to use at home, work, or the local library.
Columbus Audubon - Eco-Weekend Family and Adult Nature Retreat weekend. Come join nature lovers of all ages to explore and discover the best of Ohio's Hocking Hills at Camp Oty'Okwa - always the first weekend in May.
Located in Yellow Springs, Community Service, Inc. has been a champion for small sustainable communities and urban neighborhoods since its inception in 1940. Learn about small local communities and how to help them remain vibrant and healthy. Also take a look at Community Service's program web site, The Community Solution.
A ministry of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Akron, Crown Point is a place where the principles of eco-justice are taught every day. Explore the connections between science, faith and ecology through volunteer opportunities, workshops and seminars.
Democratic Socialists of Central Ohio
DSCO is the local chapter of the national organization, Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), a progressive activist organization made up of people who desire social, economic, and political justice and who work to achieve these ends. Look here for lots of links to information about crucial issues of the day, plus DSCO activities and events.
A national directory of earth-friendly practices, Earth 911 lists recycling services, household hazardous waste collection, business resources, programs and events, and more, for your community. Just start by entering your Zip code to find your local services and information.
Farmers Market Map of the United States
The USDA has compiled this national listing of farmer's markers, including locations, schedule, and contact infomration. Click on any state to find farmer's markets statewide. A wonderful source for vacationers and travelers, or get a list of markets right here in Ohio. Listings are alphabetical by city.
FreeGeek Columbus provides computers and training for limited-resource populations in Central Ohio through redistribution of used equipment and the use of free software. FreeGeek Columbus is committed to free software, responsible electronics recycling, and community engagement.
Friends of Alum Creek and Tributaries
FACT is a local community watershed-based group, "committed to finding ways to preserve and protect Alum Creek as a natural area while providing citizen access for environmentally responsible recreation, educational opportunities and citizen enjoyment at many levels." FACT's area of focus is the portion of the watershed extending from the reservoir dam in Delaware County down to the Big Walnut confluence by Groveport/Obetz.
The Greater Columbus Green Map provides an alternative to the traditional maps with which we are all familiar. The map presents the area through a green lens and reflects the incredible natural, cultural, and economic resources we have in central Ohio.
Green Energy Ohio is a not-for-profit organization which promotes environmentally and economically sustainable energy policies and practices in Ohio. Current projects include investigating sites for wind development, working with municipal utilities on green power programs, providing training opportunities for those interested in a career in renewable energy, and promoting residential renewable energy systems for Ohioans.
Greener Footsteps is a consulting organization to help clients live sustainably. Its newsletter Sustainable Living Ohio answers questions submitted through the site concerning any aspect of sustainability and caters answers specifically to Central Ohio.
The Healthy Worthington Coalition exists to promote the physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual health and well being of all who live, work, play and learn in the greater Worthington area.
The Highlands Nature Sanctuary exists to restore Eastern old-growth forest to Ohio, create a large wildlife preserve, and bring people closer to nature. Read about current projects, events, and opportunities to visit. the Sanctuary is lovated about 90 minutes southwest of Columbus.
Imago is a membership organization in Cincinnati which works to create a new vision of human presence within the Earth community, drawing on Earth-centered traditions and a bioregional consciousness.
Innovative Farmers of Ohio is a non-profit educational organization that works to promote agriculture that preserves and strengthens the economic, social, and environmental well-being of Ohio’s farms, farm families, and rural communities, and protects and improves the health and productivity of Ohio’s lands and waterways. IFO is part of the Greater Columbus Foodshed Project.
John F. Robbins Solar Designer
John F. Robbins is an energy consultant and high-performance home designer in Morningview, Kentucky. He has a long relationship with Simply Living and has consulted with many members on home improvements and renovations. Learn about passive solar energy and other efficient home design techniques on John's web site.
Just This Farm is a family-owned and operated farm located west of Columbus, Ohio, on the rich soils of the Darby Creek watershed. Certified organic since the year 2000 by the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association, Just This Farm sells garlic, beef, turkeys, eggs, vegetables and flowers. Owner is a member of Simply Living.
MAP, a Columbus-based organization, serves as a free furniture bank for individuals and families in need. It was incorporated in March 1998 as a centralized clearinghouse for new, high quality, and used furniture, appliances and household goods. MAP is always in need of usable furniture and furnishings, and will be happy to arrange a pick-up at your home.
Mercy For Animals is a Columbus-based non-profit animal advocacy organization that believes non-human animals are irreplaceable individuals who have morally significant interests and hence rights, including the right to live free of unnecessary suffering.
Natural-State Wines applauds those who restrict the use of chemicals in their vineyards and wineries and offers natural-state wines (including Ohio's largest selection of certified organic wines) to the consumers of Ohio.
Niches is a not-for-profit, educational organization located in the Appalachian foothills of Southeastern Ohio, with a mission to foster ecological awareness and personal well-being. Check out this beautiful web site and learn about Niches' programs, accomodations, and philosophy.
Check the OCA web site for daily news affecting Ohio's environment and consumers. Also find great summaries of current issues, and tools for activists.
Look here for basic information on the OEC's campaigns and educational projects. Get a list of Columbus-area recycling locations, locate information about key Ohio Senate and House committees, and gather tips for meeting with elected officials.
Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition
OVEC devotes its energy to improving and preserving its regional ecosystem of West Virginia, southern Ohio and eastern Kentucky through a newsletter and other publications, educational events, and cooperative projects.
Organic Gardening Club of Central Ohio
The Organic Gardening Club of Central Ohio focuses on education, guest speakers and socializing over issues of organic gardening. All are welcome!
Pudding House Publications, based in Central Ohio, publishes an eclectic, thoughtful variety of books, anthologies, broadsides, and chapbooks, and offers workshops and salons.
Raven Rocks is a community near Beallsville, Ohio, which was founded to save a beautiful area of ravines, streams, rock formations and woodlands from strip-mining and devastation. The Raven Rocks community has embarked on numerous wonderful projects including sustainable Christmas tree farming, alternative energy demonstrations, and environmental design and construction. There seems no limit to the energy and integrity of this community.
Rural Action works for the development of a sustainable culture and economy in Appalachian Ohio. Their good work focuses
on regional stewardship and economic and community development.
Scioto Gardens has a small nursery in Delaware, Ohio, which emphasizes native plants. We promote the use of native plants to support wildlife and protect the local environment, and don't grow plants that are considered invasive.
Located near Columbus in Blacklick, Ohio, Shepherd's Corner is a small corner of creation seeking to recreate the land's wholeness by rediscovering the life-giving harmony between the people and the land. Shepherd's Corner is tended by the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary of the Springs.
SOAR Energy: A Solar and Renewable Energy Buyer's Cooperative
The Simply Living board has endorsed offering a renewable energy source to Simply Living members through SOAR--A Solar and Renewable Energy Buyers Cooperative. Learn more about this Findlay-based, member-owned energy aggregator and its work to promote green power and help make energy more afforfdable and clean.
Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio
SWACO's site has information for individuals, companies and communities on how to responsibly deal with, dispose of, and reduce waste.
University Area Enrichment Association
The University Area Enrichment Association assists community members in improving the quality of life in the neighborhoods surrounding The Ohio State University. Its focus is on individual and community empowerment through leadership development and support.
Waldorf Education Columbus works to build the community and each individual, replace competition with association, and develop a higher imagination for what it means to be a Human Being in the fullest sense. Its school, the Briar Rose Children’s Center provides children (ages 3-6) with a firm foundation on which to build future learning.
The Waste Not Center is the signature program of Keep Franklin County Beautiful (KFCB). The Center receives donations from businesses of supplies that would otherwise be discarded and makes them available to teachers, artists and others for various types of projects. The Center accomplishes the dual objectives of enabling teachers to obtain materials for their work that would otherwise be unaffordable and reducing the burden on local solid waste disposal systems.
The mission of the Worthington-based Wellness Forum is to empower people to take control of their health by providing up-to-date information about how nutrition, exercise and lifestyle choices impact health, longevity and quality of life.
The WellPoint: Resources for Living is a free quarterly publication supporting the Central Ohio Holistic Health Community. Articles and other resources are available on the web site.
Wholistic Planet is an eco-friendly home and personal care products store in Canal Winchester and an online store. Owned and operated by a Simply Living member, Wholistc Planet is a source for earth-friendly baby goods, home and garden products, gifts and more.
Zen Columbus is an independent community of Zen practitioners in central Ohio. This site includes a schedule of events, information and meditation resources.
