Environmental Leaders of Color

Environmental Leaders of Color (ELOC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Mount Vernon, NY, focused on expanding environmental education, computer technology, and leadership opportunities to underserved youth in Westchester County, NY. ELOC equips young people with the knowledge, skills, and pathways needed to enter STEM fields and become lifelong environmental advocates. We aim to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all community members, especially those most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

Underserved communities in Westchester County are hit hardest by climate change and pollution, and their schools often lack access to advanced STEM pathways. ELOC closes that gap through our "Earn While You Learn" model: year-round youth programs with paid stipends, so students gain real-world experience, financial support, and leadership confidence.

Our programs:

• Student Environmental Ambassador (SEA) Program: A full-year paid program for teens with mentorship, public speaking, community education, and leadership training.
• ELOC Summer Program: A free 6-week STEM and environmental program for teens with paid stipends and a graduation showcase.
• Technology & the Environment: Free Saturday sessions in coding, AI, data science, and cybersecurity, applied to real environmental challenges.
• Bedford 2030 Greenlight Awards Mentorship: Expert mentorship that turns student summer projects into competition entries.
• Clean Energy Workforce Training (coming soon): Paid training for young adults ages 17–24 to earn heat pump installer certification.

ELOC has engaged more than 700 high school students across Mount Vernon, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Port Chester, Ossining, and Peekskill. Our students also lead community campaigns like Don't Strain Your Drain, which diverted about 300 gallons of cooking oil from local drains in 2026. ELOC has received the 2025 Westchester County ECO Award, a 2025 Bedford 2030 Greenlight Award, and official proclamations from Congressman George Latimer and the Westchester County Board of Legislators.

Volunteers are at the heart of our work as mentors, chaperones, event support, and technical guest speakers. All are welcome.