Netcentric Campaigns Fellowship Spotlight: Elissa’s Journey to Environmental Advocacy and Connection
At Netcentric Campaigns, we believe in the transformative power of people-powered networks. The Netcentric Campaigns Fellowship Program was created to support passionate advocates by nurturing their talents, sharpening their strategies, and connecting them with tools and networks to amplify their impact. This program fosters collaboration and helps changemakers bring their boldest ideas to life. Through this spotlight series, we celebrate our Fellows’ journeys and share their insights to inspire future advocates.
Today, we’re excited to introduce Elissa Yoder, an environmental advocate whose dedication to amplifying underserved voices and driving impactful change exemplifies the spirit of the Netcentric Campaigns Fellowship.
Elissa’s Fellowship Journey
Hi! I’m Elissa Yoder, a Netcentric Campaigns Fellow. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Ecology from Colorado State University and a Master’s in Environmental Natural Resources from Ohio State University. I have always been passionate about working to make the planet a healthier place to live and amplifying the voices of impacted communities, particularly those who are often sacrificed and underserved.
I first heard about Netcentric Campaigns through a chance meeting with the founder, Marty Kearns. He shared his passion for cultivating relationships and driving change through network building and collaborative advocacy work. After a two-year hiatus from the workforce, I was looking for an opportunity that would reconnect me with individuals, campaigns, and organizations within the environmental advocacy field. When I learned more about the Fellowship opportunity with Netcentric Campaigns, I quickly applied and joined their team.
During the Netcentric Campaigns Fellowship, I gained hands-on experience with technology tools, including CRM systems and project management software, which were instrumental in shaping my approach to advocacy and organizing. The melding of technology and networking reshaped how I approach achieving professional goals. Learning new technology is often a steep learning curve for me, but the team’s patience and guidance helped me successfully navigate through it. Utilizing new technology streamlined my outreach efforts and freed up my time so I could focus more on one-on-one conversations and creating personal connections. More time for networking is a gift and an opportunity for success.
As a Netcentric Campaigns Fellow, I worked with a team on the preparation, promotion, and execution of the Community Sentinels Award for Environmental Stewardship. The Sentinel Awards celebrate the core principles of strong advocacy networks by honoring grassroots leaders who build community power, forge alliances, and share knowledge to protect public health and the environment.
My responsibilities included creating an interactive and meaningful experience for individuals attending the award ceremony remotely. With the guidance of the Netcentric Campaigns team, I learned a new, modern approach to online events by creating dynamic, interactive, and engaging experiences that go beyond traditional, static webinars. I gained hands-on experience through the use of advanced technology and was able to successfully create dynamic, interactive, and immersive online experiences. I witnessed how the use of technology breaks geographical barriers and mobility constraints, enabling individuals to connect with each other in real-time across distant locations.
While I had experience working in the nonprofit sector, my understanding of networks was limited. Being a part of a strong professional network, like Halt the Harm Network, has proved to be a launching pad for my professional advancement and personal development. I have deepened my understanding of the power of collaborative advocacy and network-driven solutions. I saw firsthand that meaningful progress often stems from fostering connections, sharing resources, and providing the emotional and strategic support necessary to achieve long-term success.
To anyone considering the Netcentric Campaigns Fellowship, I would say this: seize this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow as an advocate. The fellowship provides not only tools and resources to amplify your work but also a supportive community of like-minded organizers who will inspire and challenge you.
My advice is to come with an open mind and a clear vision for the project you want to pursue. Be ready to ask questions, adapt your strategies, and take full advantage of the guidance provided by the Netcentric Campaigns leaders. Even if you face challenges, trust in the process and lean on the network for support—because collaboration is at the heart of this fellowship.
Above all, this program is an opportunity to make a tangible impact while developing skills that will empower you as a leader. If you are passionate about fighting the harms of oil and gas development, the Netcentric Campaigns Fellowship will equip you to take that work to the next level.
Elissa’s journey showcases the power of connection, collaboration, and innovation in driving change. We are inspired by her commitment to advocacy and her ability to create dynamic, inclusive experiences that bring people together for meaningful action. We can’t wait to see how Elissa builds on this foundation, continuing to amplify her impact and lead the way in environmental advocacy.
Are you ready to amplify your impact and join a supportive network of changemakers? Learn more about the Netcentric Campaigns Fellowship or contact us today and take the first step toward transforming your vision into action. Together, we can tackle the toughest challenges and create a brighter future.