Below you will find answers grouped by topic. Click a question to open the answer. If you still have a question, use our contact form or email [email protected].
About us
What is Sustainable Fox Valley?
Sustainable Fox Valley is an independent community-education project that carries forward the mission of the original Sustainable Fox Valley initiative: helping households, neighborhoods, businesses and municipalities in the Fox Cities of northeast Wisconsin create a healthy local future. Learn more about us.
What does sustainability mean to you?
We use the classic definition: being able to satisfy present human needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In practice we ask how our community can use fewer fossil fuels and scarce materials, fewer persistent toxic substances, protect natural systems and do it all fairly. Our guide What Is Sustainability? goes deeper.
Are you a nonprofit or charity?
No. Sustainable Fox Valley is an independent community-education project, not a registered charity. Purchases from our shop are payments for goods and services and are not tax-deductible.
What area do you serve?
Our focus is the Fox Valley and Fox Cities region, including Appleton, Neenah, Menasha, Kaukauna, Kimberly, Little Chute, Oshkosh, De Pere, Fond du Lac and the communities around Lake Winnebago and the Lower Fox River. Our free guides are useful anywhere, and physical kits ship within the contiguous USA.
Programs
How can I take part in a project?
Browse our projects page, pick a format that fits, such as a study circle, cleanup, garden day or the energy challenge, and contact us. We will point you to free materials and upcoming opportunities.
What is a study circle?
A study circle is a small group of about 6 to 12 people who meet several times for facilitated, democratic discussion using a shared guide. Everyone participates, and the series ends with practical actions the group can take together. See study circles.
When is the Fox Cities Unplugged Energy Challenge?
Registration opens soon. Join the interest list on the challenge page and we will email you the kickoff details as soon as they are confirmed.
Can my business or municipality work with you?
Yes. We offer Natural Step workshops for businesses and organizations and sustainability planning consultations for municipalities, and our free guides cover the triple bottom line and eco-municipality approaches. Start with businesses and organizations or municipalities.
How do I volunteer?
Visit the volunteer page to see roles such as study circle facilitator, garden helper, cleanup crew, event help, writer, photographer and tech volunteer, then sign up through our contact form.
Shop and orders
Where do physical kits ship?
Physical kits ship to addresses within the contiguous United States. We cannot currently ship to Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. territories, APO/FPO addresses or international destinations.
How long does shipping take?
We aim to ship kits within five business days of your order and email tracking information once your package is on its way. Delivery times after that depend on the carrier and your location.
Can I return a kit?
Unused kits in their original condition can generally be returned. See our refund policy for timeframes, conditions and how to start a return or report damage in transit.
What payment methods do you accept?
Accepted payment methods are shown at checkout. Payments are handled by our payment processor; we never see or store your full card number.
Can I buy a kit for a school or neighborhood group?
Yes. You can sponsor a kit for a school, youth group, neighborhood association or community garden. Add a note at checkout or contact us and we will coordinate delivery with the receiving group. See ways to support.
Services
How are services scheduled after I buy one?
After purchase we email you within 2 business days to schedule. Services are delivered in the Fox Cities area in person or online, at a time that works for you.
Is the home energy assessment a certified energy audit?
No. It is an educational walkthrough that helps you understand where your home loses energy and what to do first. It does not include diagnostic testing such as a blower door test. For that, look for a participating contractor through Focus on Energy.
Can I reschedule or cancel a service?
Yes. Let us know as early as possible by email and we will find a new time. Cancellation and refund terms are explained in our refund policy.
Do you offer services outside the Fox Cities?
Workshops, consultations and assessments can often be delivered online for people outside the Fox Cities. Contact us to talk about your location and needs before you book.
Privacy and website
What personal information do you collect?
We collect what you choose to give us through orders, the contact form and the newsletter, plus limited technical data needed to run and secure the site. Our privacy policy explains exactly what we collect, why and how long we keep it.
Do you use cookies?
Yes. We use essential cookies for things like the shopping cart, and optional cookies only with your consent through the cookie banner. You can change your choices at any time. See our cookie policy for details.
Do you sell my data or share my email address?
No. We do not sell your personal information, and we only use your email address for the purposes you gave it to us, such as order updates or the newsletter, which you can unsubscribe from at any time.
How do I report an accessibility problem or broken link?
Email [email protected] with the page address and a short description. We read every message and aim to fix problems promptly. Our accessibility statement explains our goals and how to request content in another format.