Many children and community members lack hands-on exposure to environmental science and sustainability concepts, leading to limited understanding of how human actions impact ecosystems, ocean health, and climate. Without early engagement, young people miss the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and sense of agency needed to become environmental stewards.
This project implements a environmental education program that brings hands-on STEAM and nature literacy experiences to children and families across our community in libraries, elementary schools, YMCA, and more. Our actions include hosting Planet Palooza - a free, all-ages Earth Month event at the Burbank YMCA featuring interactive science challenges such as water filtration, renewable energy experiments, native plant planting, climate pledges, and ocean acidification demonstrations. Beyond this event, we are running environmental education workshops at libraries, YMCAs, and community centers, as well as organizing BioBlitzes that invite kids to go outside, observe wildlife, and contribute data as citizen scientists. Through these experiences, we aim to build scientific identity in young people, helping them see themselves not just as learners, but as scientists and stewards who have the knowledge and agency to protect people, other animals, and the environment.
