Established in 2017, the Arkansas Climate League builds on the efforts of Arkansans Sheiley Buonaito and Robert MacAffe, who have championed social and environmental justice by partnering with grassroots Black organizations in the South for a decade prior. Initially, the organization focused on emerging climate leaders in Arkansas by providing training and conference scholarships. In 2020, they redirected their efforts towards promoting a clean energy transition for underserved families, particularly in low-income areas of Fort Smith. To achieve this, they collaborate with local organizations to enhance energy efficiency by providing guidance on utility bill assistance and improving access to essential resources, such as home weatherization. Rooted in local engagement, the Arkansas Climate League acknowledges the central role of underserved communities in its mission to create a more equitable, resilient future that is less vulnerable to climate change and more prosperous for everyone.
Board members Isaac Salazar (left) and Robert McAfee (center) helping residents with applications for reduction of water and utility bills and weatherization applications. Photo: Arkansas Climate League
The Arkansas Climate League is a small organization with seven staff members and a board chair. Their team is diverse and mainly composed of local residents. As part of their actions, the organization provides local families with DIY weatherization kits, containing easy-to-install items such as door sweeps and window insulation, which can improve energy efficiency and reduce overall energy consumption. In 2024, they distributed 30 kits and provided training on how to use them, helping to make homes more sustainable and adapted to climate change. They have also put up 187 solar panels at the McGill Center – a community center in a predominantly low-income minority neighborhood – and the Antioch for Youth and Families – a food bank, which serves over 1,000 families monthly. Through these efforts and a deep community involvement, ACL is making sure that low-income families and neighborhoods are included in the green energy transition.
In 2024, the Arkansas Climate League installed solar panels on the McGill Center, in Fort Smith. Photo: Arkansas Climate League