Jefferson County Recognizes 2024 Sustainability Award Winners

Each year, Jefferson County recognizes outstanding Jeffco residents who are contributing positively to our community and the planet, playing a key role in turning the county's Climate Action Plan into a reality. On May 21 at the Board of County Commissioners Hearing, Jeffco Commissioners Andy Kerr, Lesley Dahlkemper, and Tracy Kraft-Tharp recognized the 2024 Sustainability Award winners.

The Jefferson County Sustainability Awards are held annually to acknowledge and celebrate environmental stewardship and sustainability efforts made by organizations, employees, students, and residents in Jefferson County. Nominees must live, work, or study within Jefferson County. Nominees must also align with the Mission, Vision, and Values for Jefferson County set forth by the County Commissioners and the Sustainability Commission.

Eco-Employee Award

Matt Martinez, Volunteer Services Specialist for Jefferson County Open Space, organizes volunteers while educating them on critical public land issues. He empowers them to implement sustainable practices within open space and carry these habits to other areas across Colorado.

Educator of the Year

Julia Fliss, 6th Grade Teacher, and Scott Major, Counselor at Evergreen Middle School, lead a 12-student Green Team that has diverted more than 1,450 pounds of food waste through its composting program. Their video, "Our Journey to Zero Food Waste," won the EarthForce RISE Video Challenge, securing a $1,000 award and inspiring students to take bold environmental action.

Future Leader

Madhvi Chittoor, a 13-year-old student from Arvada, has championed significant environmental legislation, including Colorado's HB21-1162 banning plastic bags and Styrofoam containers, as well as HB22-1345 and SB24-08, both addressing toxic PFAS chemicals.

Sustainable Business Award

The Geos Neighborhood, located in Arvada, sets a powerful example of sustainable living, combining passive design and modern technology to reduce energy requirements by 75% while optimizing air quality. By harnessing solar energy to meet its consumption needs and offering pedestrian-friendly spaces, it proves that eco-friendly living is both achievable and affordable today.

Volunteer of the Year

Kim Anderson, a parent volunteer at West Woods Elementary, leads the school's composting program by coordinating volunteers and staff to reduce waste and streamline cafeteria composting. She partnered with the PTA to fund curbside compost pickup and created a share table where uneaten food can be picked up later by students, reducing food waste.

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