Green Cross advocates for clean energy for the residents of East Lubbock, Texas. The organization was founded in 2024 by Osagie Okuruwa, who completed a workforce training program in conservation in Massachusetts and wanted to bring solar energy and battery storage solutions to his community, which is majority-minority and experiences the brunt of urban pollution from neighboring manufacturing and food processing facilities and emissions from cars on Interstate Highway 27 and US 84. Residents experience high rates of asthma, respiratory disease and cardiovascular issues and often cannot access the healthcare they need. East Lubbock has also been a victim of serious energy failures that adversely affect daily life. In March 2025, Lubbock experienced power outages due to winds upwards of 80 miles per hour and is still reeling from mechanical failures from the blizzard that devastated Texas in 2021.
Green Cross, whose name is inspired by the Red Cross in its urgency to mobilize green energy and strengthen emergency response systems, aims to transform Lubbock County and neighboring counties into self-sufficient, climate-resilient communities with a reliable energy supply. The all-volunteer organization has hosted workshops and other public education initiatives to educate the public about solar energy. It also advocates for solar panel installation programs and other resources from Lubbock County officials. It is currently seeking funding for a workforce training program that would install solar panels and work to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and greenhouse gases in the area. Green Cross advocates for a “just transition” to a carbon-free world, ensuring that no communities are left behind in the global movement to eliminate fossil fuel reliance.