West Atlanta Watershed Alliance, Inc. (WAWA) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The West Atlanta Watershed Alliance (WAWA) is a community-based non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life within the West Atlanta Watershed by protecting, preserving, and restoring the community's natural resources. Established in 1995, WAWA serves predominantly African American neighborhoods in Northwest and Southwest Atlanta, areas that are often overburdened with environmental stressors yet underrepresented in environmental decision-making processes.

Mission and Vision

WAWA's mission is to improve the quality of life in the West Atlanta Watershed by protecting, preserving, and restoring the community's natural resources. The organization envisions a community that protects its watersheds, recognizes and appreciates its connections to these vital resources, and fosters informed and engaged residents who fully participate in decision-making on issues impacting environmental quality, health, and community well-being.

Primary Area of Focus

WAWA focuses on environmental stewardship, education, and justice within the Proctor, Utoy, and Sandy Creek watersheds. These areas have historically faced challenges such as pollution from combined sewer overflows, illegal dumping, and lack of access to green spaces.

Industry Significance

As a leading environmental advocacy organization in Atlanta, WAWA plays a crucial role in promoting environmental justice and sustainability. Its efforts have led to the preservation of over 400 acres of green space in Southwest Atlanta and the operation of the Outdoor Activity Center (OAC), a 26-acre urban forest preserve and nature center.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Environmental Stewardship: Restoring and improving green spaces and waterways in West Atlanta.

Environmental Education: Providing cultural and place-based programming for all ages, including field trips, annual family events, school break camps, and youth clubs.

Environmental Justice: Advocating for climate justice in energy-burdened zip codes, supporting sustainable development without displacement, and revitalizing toxic spaces into healthy places.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Urban Forest Management: Stewardship of urban forests, including the OAC, Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, and the Lionel Hampton Beecher Hills Preserve.

Community Engagement: Engaging residents in environmental education and stewardship activities.

Environmental Advocacy: Addressing environmental challenges through policy advocacy and community mobilization.

Key Technologies Utilized

Green Infrastructure: Implementing nature-based solutions such as stream restoration and constructed wetlands to manage stormwater and improve water quality.

Environmental Monitoring: Utilizing water quality testing and data collection to inform conservation efforts.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Urban Communities: Focusing on underserved neighborhoods in Northwest and Southwest Atlanta.

Environmental Education: Providing programs for schools, youth groups, and community organizations.

Environmental Advocacy: Addressing issues such as pollution, illegal dumping, and lack of green spaces.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

WAWA has secured funding through various grants and donations to support its initiatives. In 2023, the organization received grants totaling $1,444,890 from multiple grantmakers, including:

Windward Fund: $500,000 for environmental programs.

United States Energy Foundation: $150,000 to support education and outreach for a clean energy future.

The Conservation Fund: $120,000 for conservation of natural resources and sustainable economic and community development.

Total Funds Raised

In 2023, WAWA reported total revenues of $1,115,130, with total expenses of $1,055,281, and total assets amounting to $1,365,403.

Notable Investors

Key funding partners include the Windward Fund, United States Energy Foundation, and The Conservation Fund, among others.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds are utilized to support WAWA's environmental stewardship programs, educational initiatives, and advocacy efforts aimed at improving the quality of life in the West Atlanta Watershed.

Pipeline Development

As a non-profit organization, WAWA does not have a product pipeline in the traditional sense. However, it continually develops and implements programs and projects to address environmental challenges in the community.

Key Programs and Projects

Proctor Creek Trash Trap Network Education Project: An initiative to clean up waste in local waterways and create cleaner, safer environments.

Green Infrastructure Design Challenge – OAC: A project to introduce green infrastructure practices, including stream restoration and constructed wetlands, at the OAC.

Target Conditions

These programs aim to address pollution, illegal dumping, and lack of green spaces in the West Atlanta Watershed.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for these projects are determined based on funding availability and community engagement, with ongoing efforts to expand and enhance program offerings.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

WAWA employs green infrastructure solutions such as stream restoration and constructed wetlands to manage stormwater and improve water quality.

Significant Scientific Methods

Environmental Monitoring: Conducting water quality testing and data collection to inform conservation efforts.

Community Science: Engaging residents in environmental monitoring and stewardship activities.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

Na'Taki Osborne-Jelks: Co-founder and Board Chair of WAWA, leading the organization's strategic direction and community engagement efforts.

Key Contributions or Roles Within the Company

Na'Taki Osborne-Jelks has been instrumental in establishing WAWA's mission and guiding its initiatives to protect and restore natural resources in West Atlanta.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The environmental advocacy sector in Atlanta includes organizations focused on water quality, urban green spaces, and community engagement. WAWA's unique focus on environmental justice and stewardship in underserved communities differentiates it within this landscape.

Competitor Analysis

Chattahoochee Riverkeeper (CRK): Dedicated to protecting and restoring the Chattahoochee River Basin, CRK engages in advocacy, education, research, and legal actions to preserve the river and its watershed.

Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper: Focuses on the Chattahoochee River and its tributaries, working to protect water quality and promote sustainable practices.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

WAWA collaborates with various organizations, including the City of Atlanta Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs, Georgia Tech, Spelman College, and UrbanHeatATL, to advance community-led, equity-centered environmental and community development work.

Operational Insights

WAWA's strategic focus on environmental justice and community engagement positions it uniquely in the Atlanta environmental advocacy landscape, allowing it to address specific challenges faced by underserved communities.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

WAWA aims to expand its environmental education programs, enhance community engagement initiatives, and implement additional green infrastructure projects to further protect and restore natural resources in the West Atlanta Watershed.

Future Business Directions

The organization plans to strengthen partnerships with local institutions, increase volunteer engagement, and seek additional funding to support its mission.

Opportunities for Expansion

WAWA is exploring opportunities to replicate its successful programs in other urban areas facing similar environmental challenges.

Current Strengths Positioning the Company

WAWA's deep community roots, established partnerships, and proven track record in environmental stewardship and education provide a strong foundation for achieving its future objectives.