About Us
Why We Exist
Institute for Climate Action, Research, and Experience is a 501(c)(3) public charity founded in 2026 by Dr. Damon Watkins and Dr. Jess Lasoff-Santos in response to three converging crises: Extreme weather and climate-related disasters are becoming more frequent. Funding for climate research is very limited at a time when communities need answers most. Lastly, much of the existing climate research focuses on environmental systems, while less attention is given to how climate change affects people's emotional, social, and physical wellbeing. We created I-CARE to help fill that gap.
Our Mission, Vision & Values
Mission
Fund and conduct scientific research on how climate change impacts people. Advance understanding of how communities experience climate change, cope with its challenges, and turn concern into practical action.
Vision
A world where people and communities thrive emotionally, socially, and physically despite the planet's changing climate.
Values
Stewardship
Recognizing our responsibility to care for the land, its resources, and its people.
Actionability
Supporting research that enables strategic, practical insights for people and communities affected by climate change.
Justice
Uplifting systems that promote fair and meaningful responses to climate change.
Empathy
Respecting the experiences and perspectives of others and treating people with dignity and care.
Scientific Rigor
Enabling high-quality, ethical research based in curiosity, creativity, and discovery.
Andreas Miles-Novelo, PhD
Chair
Jeff Jordan, Sr., EdD
Secretary
Board of Directors
We are guided by a diverse group of experts dedicated to advancing climate research and ensuring our work remains grounded in community experience.
Julie Hassen, MSW, LCSW
Vice Chair
Mark Flint, BVSc, PhD, DACAW
Member at Large
Amel Hammad, MBA
Treasurer
