Bridging the gap: engaging inner-city youth in stewardship

MEDIA RELEASE:

WINNIPEG 0ctober 10, 2006 - Today, media were invited to attend a unique environmental education program for grade four students from Winnipeg’s Inner-City School District. The Charleswood Rotary Club’s 2006 Bridging the Gap Initiative began on September 26 and provides students with the opportunity to visit two of Winnipeg’s largest natural heritage parks: the Living Prairie Museum and the Assiniboine Forest.

In addition to increased awareness and appreciation of our local natural areas, Bridging the Gap gives students opportunities to reflect on personal behaviours and attitudes towards nature as they explore issues related to environmental stewardship and sustainability in Manitoba. During the full-day programs, students engage in curriculum based hands-on learning activities and participate in relevant initiatives that show respect, gratitude and appreciation of Manitoba's natural environment. The students encounter the beauty of our natural world while developing a sense of empowerment, pride and personal growth as they personally contributing to worthy environmental causes.

Tracey Williams is the Forest representative from the Charleswood Rotary Club. “To ensure natural areas remain in the future, it is important to increase awareness, understanding and respect amongst our youth,” said Williams. “We are striving to preserve our local resources while providing all Winnipeg youth with the opportunity to experience

With the support of several partners and sponsors, the programs are offered to participating schools free of charge including round-trip bus costs. Program partners and sponsors include the City of Winnipeg, Environment Canada – EcoAction Program, Parks Canada/Nature Canada – Parks and People Program, Manitoba Hydro, Heritage Canada, Province of Manitoba, SHAW Communications Inc., Manitoba Naturalist Society, and the Living Prairie Museum.

For more information on this initiative, contact the Forest Education Coordinator at 311 or email.