Sunday, 26 June 2011
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Runnymede Public Library Classroom 2F
2178 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON M6S 1M8

Workshop Presenter: Liz Benneian, President, Oakvillegreen Conservation Association

“First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they fight you. Then you win.”—Mahatma Gandhi

Citizens’ groups fighting to protect natural spaces can be outgunned by “experts,” out-maneuvered by municipal staff, shut out by local media and ignored by politicians.

Learn how Liz Benneian, an award-winning community activist, environmental leader and President of Oakvillegreen Conservation Association has been beating the odds and winning environmental victories for her community.

BIO: Liz Benneian, President of Oakvillegreen Conservation Association, and one of the founders of Ontario Zero Waste Coalition, is a former journalist and newspaper editor. Since 2004, she has been a full-time, volunteer environmental advocate. Under her leadership Oakvillegreen has successfully waged many campaigns including stopping plans to build an incinerator in Halton, convincing the Province of Ontario to turn 675 acres slated for development into two new conservation areas halting plans to put a paved pathway through a critical migratory bird stopover area, and securing a bylaw to stop developers from clear-cutting trees. During the past two years, Liz has been travelling around the province teaching grassroots groups how to become more effective advocates through Organize To Win seminars.

In 2007, Liz was awarded both Oakville's Individual Community Spirit Award and the Rotary’s Paul Harris Fellowship Award for outstanding contributions to her community. Last June, she was chosen as Earth Day Canada's National Hometown Hero for 2009 and in February of 2010 she received an award from the Ontario Heritage Trust in recognition for her success in conserving the Province’s natural heritage.

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."—Martin Luther King Jr.

Registration: Pre-Registration is required. Room limit is 36 persons and spots will be allotted on a first-come, first-served basis. Please email us at organizetowin@gmail.com with “June 26 Runnymede” in the subject line. 416 551-9827 for info.

Fee: PWYC; Suggested donation of $5 - $10. Light refreshments will be provided - please bring your own mug.