Winning the World We Want begins with action—building the solutions we need and sustaining grassroots organizing. The Winning the World We Want Apprenticeship (W4A) is a year-long experiential training program designed to cultivate new environmental justice leaders. Through this program, sixteen emerging organizers from our five Resiliency Organizing Hubs across North Carolina are strengthening their skills to foster a local regenerative economy.
W4A offers two tracks:
W4A Cooperative Business Track
For community members looking to start or run cooperatives, this track provides essential training in democratic decision-making, worker ownership, and collaborative leadership. Our training partner, Cooperacion Santa Ana, facilitates virtual popular education sessions using a proven curriculum—delivered in Spanish with English interpretation to ensure a multilingual and inclusive learning space.
Core Values of the Cooperative Business Track:
- Cooperative Principles – Prioritizing worker ownership and democratic governance.
- Collaborative Leadership – Strengthening shared decision-making models.
- Community-Focused – Committing to local economic equity.
- Green Business Development – Building sustainable businesses with environmental and economic impact.
Impact in Action:
“W4A has been instrumental in teaching me the fundamentals of cooperative models and how to apply them to strengthen resilience in rural communities.”
— D’Ante Grovner, Men and Women United for Youth and Families
“Engaging in W4A has deepened my understanding of shifting from an extractive to a regenerative economy, while equipping me with conflict resolution and communication strategies that honor all perspectives.”
— Safi Martin, Hood Huggers International
W4A Energy Justice Organizing Track
Through partnership with Climate Advocacy Lab, this track equips emerging organizers with the skills to transform North Carolina’s energy landscape and advocate for just transitions away from fossil fuels. Apprentices receive training in political advocacy, movement-building, and community mobilization to address energy justice in their regions.
Focus Areas of the Energy Justice Track:
- Understanding NC’s Energy System – Identifying barriers and opportunities for shifting away from fossil fuels.
- Designing & Implementing Campaigns – Learning how to mobilize and engage decision-makers.
- Building Leadership & Teams – Recruiting and empowering frontline communities.
- Fostering a Learning Culture – Encouraging dialogue, reflection, and transformation.
Impact in Action:
“The W4A Energy Justice track gives us the tools to help our community members participate in their own rescue.”
— Carla Pridgen, Downeast Coal Ash Social and Environmental Coalition
“It is extraordinary to be part of a group working together toward the world we want—one rooted in joy, justice, and sustainability.”
— Dr. LaDaris Jefferson, Robeson County Cooperative for Sustainable Development
W4A is more than a training program—it’s a catalyst for lasting transformation, economic justice, and climate resilience. Through this apprenticeship, frontline leaders are actively creating the world we all deserve.