Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Alcock, Frank

Area of Concentration

Environmental Studies

Abstract

This thesis evaluates the environmental, operational, and financial impacts of sustainable retrofit upgrades implemented through the GoodUse program by Southface Institute on three Sarasota-based non-profit organizations: Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, Suncoast Blood Centers, and Easterseals Southwest Florida. By using a mixed-methods approach, this study integrates quantitative data from Energy Star Portfolio Manager with qualitative insights from oral, on-site interviews. Analysis from quantitative data examines changes in electricity use, water consumption, and utility costs before and after implementation of retrofit upgrades, with attention to seasonal patterns and Florida’s climate-driven variability. Qualitative findings explore how staff experience building comfort, reliability, maintenance demands, and operating capacity following these retrofit improvements. Results show that retrofit upgrades contribute to measurable reductions in winter energy use, improved indoor comfort, and decreased operational disruptions. However, seasonal cooling and irrigation loads remain the dominant drivers of overall consumption. Water use patterns are shaped primarily by irrigation needs, producing predictable summer and early‑fall peaks. Staff across all organizations reported enhanced building stability, better lighting quality, and increased awareness of sustainability practices. While cost savings vary by season and weather, nonprofits consistently reinvest savings into mission‑critical programs, staffing, and community services. This study concludes that sustainable retrofit upgrades strengthen nonprofit resilience by reducing utility burdens, improving facility performance, and supporting long‑term organizational sustainability. The findings highlight the unique value of an ESCO‑like model such as GoodUse, which provides technical expertise and funding to organizations that lack access to traditional energy‑efficiency financing mechanisms.

Rights

The author has granted New College of Florida the nonexclusive right to archive, make accessible, and distribute for educational purposes this work in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. The copyright of this work remains with the author.

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