Introducing Marissa Zampino, the Mystic River Watershed Association’s new Community Organizer! As Community Organizer, Marissa will build relationships and partner with community members and organizations to help surface and implement resident-generated heat and other climate resilience solutions.

Join us in getting to know Marissa with this fun Q and A:

Q: Tell us about an experience that has led you here:

For me that’s an interesting question because I feel like my life has had so many wonderful twists and turns. But I think the most relevant would be my experience canvassing on a renewable energy bill. Carbon mitigation is really important, but I was canvassing in the summer and it was SO hot due to climate change. One person I talked to at the door said, “Renewable energy is great, but what are you doing NOW to help communities deal with climate change?” That really stuck with me- and I am excited to connect with communities on climate/heat resilience around the watershed!

Q: Who would you consider as a role model and inspiration?

I don’t have just one- I used to work with students at UMass Amherst on a variety of public interest issues (voter registration, fighting hunger and homelessness, protecting the environment); and everyday I was (and still am!) inspired by them and their passion for social change!

Q: What do you do when you aren't working?

Any sort of “vibing”- which usually includes walking, reading, listening to new music, or attempting to cook!

Q: What’s something interesting about you that we wouldn’t learn from your resume alone?

I used to be a competitive artistic roller skater!

Q: What is your favorite place?

Beaches- any beach, freshwater or saltwater, anywhere.

Q: What are you watching on Netflix right now?

Cowboy Bebop- the original anime!

Have questions or want to introduce yourself? Send Marissa an email at marissa.zampino@mysticriver.org