The Sustainable Progress and Equality Collective (SPEC) is an open learning organization that helps individuals and communities become catalysts for positive change. SPEC's mission is to empower individuals to become globally-minded change agents by helping them learn the essential skills required to build sustainable careers and make a positive impact in their communities. We aim to shape the next generation of leaders who will need to tackle the complex challenges facing society. SPEC achieves this aim through research, mentorship, training, work experience, service-learning, and events for people from underrepresented backgrounds, underserved communities, non-traditional backgrounds, and allies to the causes of environmental sustainability and social justice.