Inspired by the original Earth Day (1970), Center co-founders Jeanne and Dick Roy got deeply involved in the fledgling Oregon environmental movement.  Until 1993, Dick practiced corporate law while Jeanne worked as a full-time volunteer for the earth.

In 1993, Dick left his firm to join Jeanne as a volunteer.  As a vehicle for their work they co-founded the Northwest Earth Institute (NWEI), now a leading regional nonprofit working to create a sustainable future.  From 1993 until early 2006, Jeanne served as Education Director and Dick served as Executive Director at NWEI. 

In 1997, Jeanne also founded the Oregon Natural Step Network, a project of NWEI, and served as its chair until 2002 when it was spun off into a free-standing nonprofit.  The Network has been described as the most vital metropolitan network of decision-makers focused on sustainability in the United States.

The Roys left their positions at NWEI in early 2006 to create the Center for Earth Leadership.  Today, the Center has a regular staff of four and a growing team of dedicated volunteers.