Catherine reflective blurb

As an environmental science major and avid tree-hugger, I believe it is incredibly important to teach kids about preserving the natural world. Throughout college, I have volunteered with organizations connecting inner-city youth to the great outdoors in life-changing ways. Environmental education programs allow kids to engage all of their senses while unearthing the wonders of nature.  Kids’ eyes light up as they develop connections with the earth, by simply biting into a hand-picked cherry tomato or attempting to catch the elusive butterfly. These “Aha!” moments, kids’ beautiful, raw realizations about the world, influenced my decision to serve in the Memphis Botanic Garden’s education department. The dedicated MBG education staff strives to build and strengthen kids’ connections with the natural world in hopes that these students, our nation’s future leaders, will someday serve as knowledgeable and progressive stewards of the earth.

I experienced many aspects of MBG’s environmental education program. I created and implemented camp curriculum, facilitated various eco-themed classes (my favorites of which included Jungle Adventures, Fruits and Veggies, and Pollinators), led a few pirate-themed birthday parties, and managed activities at community events such as Sweet Treat Sunday and International Mud Day. I learned how to present educational material in fun, proactive ways, creatively and effectively collaborate with my co-workers, and patiently interact with youngsters under the blazing Memphis sun (*change wording*).  I not only gained a better understanding of the challenges non-profits face, I also witnessed the dedication, collaboration, and ingenuity MBG staff demonstrated to overcome such obstacles.

At my site, I witnessed the unique intersection between the issues of education, access, and sustainability. To ensure the health and well-being of future generations, communities must establish and teach their children about sustainable environmental practices. However, environmental education is a privilege. Generally, it is inaccessible to those who lack the means and information required to improve their environment, namely folks from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Access to natural spaces and associated curriculum requires financial investment and time, precious resources that many classrooms cannot spare.  By reaching out to local schools and community organizations, MBG works tirelessly to overcome this disparity and ensure that all children in Shelby County have access to meaningful environmental education.

I pursued SSF because I wanted to contribute my passion for the environment, but this experience has opened my eyes to so much more. Through our weekly meetings, my MBG duties, and personal reflection, I have developed a deeper appreciation for this vibrant, scrappy city, a unique place that shares in the struggles and triumphs of its inhabitants (*change wording*).  I have learned about issues affecting our community and society at large, engaged with dynamic leaders striving to promote positive change, and helped create a more sustainable community through the power of education. I am proud to have volunteered at MBG, a community cornerstone which provides indispensable services in a city which has taught me so much.

I would like to thank the incredible folks in the MBG education department who embraced me and taught me an enormous amount about environmental education. I would also like to thank Sandi, Beverly, Scott, and Shauni for serving as our fearless leaders and showing us diverse aspects of this extraordinary city. And lastly, I am grateful to all of the summer service fellows – I have learned so much vicariously through your blog posts and our conversations, I can’t wait to see what y’all do next.