Deep River Youth For Justice/Environment/Diversity/Intention (J.E.D.I): A Force for Change

Deep River Riverkeeper (DRRK) is pleased to announce we have been awarded a $10,000 grant from The Foundation for a Healthy High Point. In alignment with our mission to protect the Deep River and its Neighbors through science, education and stewardship and our vision to strengthen bonds with young people through recreation, watershed education and healthy habits in the outdoors, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to develop a new program.

J.E.D.I: A Force for Change is a unique outreach program for High School Youths, ages 13-18, from economically challenged, underserved areas in High Point and Jamestown. The goal is to give Youth meaningful experiences with the environment as a way to build life skills, improve well-being and create informed advocates for the Deep River and its environs. We will design an innovative program that combines science, recreation, diverse cultural perspectives, and artistic expressions as powerful tools for Youth to build life skills, agency, and expand opportunities to experience the physical, psychological, and neurological health benefits of engaging with Nature. This program will consist of two outings a month in a four month period.

Funding will support the work of eight local experts in creating a path-breaking program of learning outcomes and curriculum based on recent neuroscience research about the positive impacts (cognitive, physical, & emotional development) from children's engagement with Nature during their formative years. We intend to provide active, cultural, and scientific engagement with Nature for urbanized adolescents who typically are unable to experience the 'bigger picture' or learn outdoor skills, who likely miss benefits from attaining these kinds of early life experiences that build autonomy, self discipline, connections, collaboration with others, and depth of knowing Nature's impact on their lives. This multidisciplinary approach intends to combine citizen science activities, special river and hiking experiences, natural and cultural history, with the arts to build positive physical and psychological health outcomes and meaningful ways for Youth to influence their communities and futures. Participating students will each receive compensation at the end of the program.

DRRK is currently accepting applications for this program through educator nominations. Once all applications are submitted, we will interview and select five participants and two alternates. If you would like to nominate a student please contact Heather Bare, Youth Enrichment and Mentorship Coordinator of High Point Schools Partnership at hbare@hpspnc.org for an application.