TCSF Background
TCSF originated as a community project in October, 1992 at the first-ever regional economic conference organized by what is now the Tahoe Truckee Regional Economic
Coalition, a public/private partnership of stakeholders. Over 250 residents and
stakeholders identified environmental and development expertise in the Tahoe Region as an asset which could contribute to a higher quality of life.
Since 1992 a Steering Committee of stakeholders evaluated activities, identified expertise, developed a mission statement, and made all decisions in open meetings by consensus. At every stage of project development, TCSF received consistent community support. A National Market Survey completed in 1994 identified how TCSF can add value to other efforts (see below).
Stakeholders for the Tahoe community met in October 1994 to review the Market Survey, decide on program direction and develop a 1995 Annual Review and Strategic Direction. These decisions of the community were embraced by TCSF and continue to guide ongoing TCSF programs.
The organization continued to grow and mature throughout 1995 and 1996. TCSF developed bylaws, a diverse and representative Board of Directors, and initial program elements. The 1996 Annual Review and Strategic Direction summarizes the organizational progress made. During 1996 and 1997 substantial progress was made in the implementation of its two programs.
TCSF collaborated with others to bring over $130,000 to the Region to implement initial stages of the Information Technology Program. TCSF also developed funding for over $25,000 ($3,970 in 1995, $12,165 in 1996 and $9,450 and 1997) in support of the Sustainability Curriculm Program. As 1997 draws to a close, the organization is positioned to continue to grow in its leadership role in regional sustainability efforts.
Market Survey
A Market Survey was performed to determine how TCSF can position itself to collaborate and add value without duplicating other efforts. Over 100 people around the U.S. were contacted, and clear results were that organizations like TTREC are emerging all over the U.S., people are trying to assert more control over the policies where they live, there is a need for an integrated systems approach to define and achieve sustainability, and education and training programs are essential. A summary of the perceptions of people working to achieve sustainability in the U.S. includes:
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