The Cincinnati Earth Institute (CEI) started as a program of EarthConnection that began in early 1997 with the first offering of the Voluntary Simplicity course in Cincinnati. In August, 2000, CEI became one of twelve regional institutes. These regional institutes are all extensions of the Northwest Earth Institute founded by long time Earth activists Dick & Jeanne Roy, of Portland, Oregon, in 1993. The Roys departed from their professional careers to develop a series of stimulating discussion courses meant to clarify personal values and attitudes on critical environmental issues. Since the closing of Earth Connection in June 2001, CEI mentors have transitioned the institute into a fully volunteer based organization.



The mission of the CEI outreach is motivating individuals to examine and transform personal values and habits, to accept responsibility for the earth, and to act on that commitment.



Goals:



- To have an ecocentric view of the earth, reflected in the principles of deep ecology



- To practice simplicity in order to enrich life and reduce personal impact on the earth



- To have dedication in knowing and protecting the unique place where we live