IDEAS For Us' mission is most clearly stated in the name - "Intellectual Decisions on Environmental Awareness Solutions." This environmental non-profit organization was created in 2008 by Henry Harding and Chris Castro. They created IDEAS with the thought of advancing sustainability in universities and K-12 schools through the leadership of passionate individuals, whether they be professionals in the field or concerned volunteers with a desire to improve the world. This small organization that began in Orlando, Florida has quickly expanded to include over 200,000 members and 28 countries throughout the world.
     The inter-generational platform gives individuals, whether 15 or 105, the opportunity to come together and discuss the world's most pressing environmental and social issues. IDEAS For Us creates a framework for global partnership that promotes the development and initiation of solutions for these difficult challenges. The organization realizes the difficulty in creating change as there are way too many crucial problems to face all at once so it divides its focus between these five Pillars of Sustainability: Energy, Water, Food, Waste, and Ecology. IDEAS For Us inspires creative, intellectual solutions because it is an atmosphere where any and all ideas are appreciated and built upon. And not only are all ages welcome, but people of all disciplines. The environmental crisis cannot be solved unless it is considered from multiple, different perspectives. It takes engineers, and journalists, and politicians, and inventors, and artists, and so many others to come together and find this common ground that is built upon their concern for the state of their planet.
     An example of the innovation and creativity that derives from the members of IDEAS For Us is the creation of Fleet Farming. This project strives to reduce the negative impact of food production and reduce the amount of wasted land in urban neighborhoods through a hyper local urban farming model that is powered by locals on bikes. Fleet Farming transforms everyday citizens' yards into farmlettes that will produce fresh fruits, vegetables, and other greens, while acting as a learning space for future farmers. The bikers go on "Swarm Rides" biweekly and maintain and harvest all of the farmlettes so that the owners of the property must do nothing besides donate their land. The harvested produce is then sold to local businesses and at weekend farmer's markets, which helps reduce the community's carbon footprint.
     IDEAS For Us has matured into a well-renowned organization that has a significant impact throughout the world on sustainability and youth education. However, the organization is always looking for individuals who would like to become members or create new chapters throughout the world. If you are interested in this movement and would like to get involved please visit http://www.ideasforus.org/ and http://fleetfarming.com/.