Membership and Team Member Spotlight

Ava Corey-Gruenes, MA

Organizer and Outreach Coordinator

Ava Corey-Gruenes!

The Midwest Building Decarbonization Coalition proudly recognizes Ava Corey-Gruenes for her leadership and dedication to advancing the Health Working Group's mission. An environmental justice organizer committed to bridging environmental and health equity, Ava brings a strong foundation in community organizing, climate advocacy, environmental education, and healthcare access.

With bachelor's and master's degrees in Gender and Women's Studies from Minnesota State University, Mankato, Ava's experience spans the Minnesota and U.S. Youth Climate Strike, Mavs for Change, Start:Empowerment, Minnesota State University, and Planned Parenthood. Their master's research focused on sustaining intersectional environmental justice activism, reflecting a deep commitment to building healthier, more equitable communities where environmental justice is recognized as an essential part of broader liberation movements.

Thank you, Ava, for your leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to advancing environmental and health justice across the Midwest.
#membership#member#spotlight#thankyou

Dana Gibson- Head of Coalition and Board Liaison

Dana Gibson is a resident of Pontiac, Michigan where she has been educated in the Pontiac school system. Dana went on to receive her Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts from Oakland Community College. Dana is currently a Case Manager for Assertive Vocational Services, LLC. Dana has previously worked as a Michigan Organizer for Mothers Out Front. where she led outreach activities in local communities and through digital advocacy to invite and support parent engagement in activities. Dana also provided training and support to increase the number of families engaged in activities and share skills and resources for their leadership to lead local activities in partnership with volunteers. Dana also participated in the Global Service Youth Day national planning calls as appropriate, to share local stories and support parent engagement in the broader Climate Mobilization organizing and the demand to end fossil fuels. Dana also served as the Youth Manager for Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County where she raised $6000.00 to support the Habitat for Humanity mission. Dana served as a Volunteer Liaison for AmeriCorps where she obtained monetary donations for the Summer Reading Theater books program. Dana also assisted with the promotion, hosting, and canvassing of neighborhoods to advertise for the Annual Summer Reading Theater Event held at the Ultimate Soccer Arena annually. Dana mentored Pontiac Middle and High School Students and created strategic goals and objectives for the students to succeed while attending the summer school at Pontiac Central High School. Dana was also liaison for the School District of Pontiac Title One parents of Pontiac, Michigan. Dana enjoys trying new restaurants, being involved in the community and traveling. #Congratulations #valuestaff