Community Science

Empowering Residents Through Knowledge, Tools, and Environmental Action

Community science is about putting data and discovery in the hands of the people. The I.W. Cheever Vision Foundation supports neighborhood-led environmental testing, education, and advocacy to help families understand, monitor, and respond to the conditions that affect their health and wellbeing.

Residents in Greater West Savannah face long-term exposure to pollution, flooding, and substandard housing. Government data alone doesn't tell the full story. Through community science, we empower neighbors to:

• Collect and analyze environmental data
• Identify risks to health and housing stability
• Advocate for clean air, safe water, and healthy homes

• Air Quality Monitoring
  Deploying low-cost air sensors in high-risk areas to track pollution from traffic, industrial zones, and mold in homes. Residents are trained to collect, map, and interpret air quality data, especially around Yamacraw Village and Cloverdale.
   
• Water & Soil Testing
  Supporting regular testing in historically redlined communities to check for contaminants like lead, mold, or bacteria. Partnering with labs, schools, and scientists to ensure testing is accurate and publicly accessible.
   
• Mold & Housing Conditions
  Educating residents on the environmental impact of indoor mold, water damage, and poor ventilation. Developing tools and checklists for families to assess their units and demand improvements from landlords and housing authorities.
   
• Data Storytelling & Mapping
  Residents will build digital story maps combining photos, charts, and testimonials. These visual tools help present environmental justice concerns to city leaders, HUD, and other stakeholders.
   

In partnership with local churches and nonprofits, we are establishing “Community Science Hubs” that serve as:

• Training sites for youth and adults
• Drop-off points for testing samples
• Resource centers for environmental education materials
   

Our science work is resident-led, not top-down. We train youth, elders, and tenant leaders to:

• Conduct citizen science projects
• Present findings at public meetings
• Push for stronger policies using their own data