We are a New Haven, CT based non-profit founded in 2000 dedicated to providing opportunities for young people to develop a positive sense of self, and a connection and commitment to others through programs that incorporate environmental exploration, leadership and community service. Here are our stories and adventures.
On March 11, 2006, a bright and slightly breezy spring day, Solar Youth Steward Team participants and alumni, plus Solar Youth alumni from the 2005 Citywide Steward Summer Program and 2005 Hands-on Outdoor Learning Adventure (HOLA), came together for a trip to Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, CT.
After lunch, the group started out, led by Joanne, the Executive Director and one of the founders of the organization. The easily sloping trail gave way to a steep rocky climb that some youth were sure they couldn't complete--but they were wrong! Every youth made it to the very top, where the castle stood. Feelings of pride and enthusiasm flowed through the group.
Rushing to the top floor of the castle, youth looked out at a spectacular view of New Haven County and the Long Island Sound. After some rest, the youth split into two groups--the Rigorous Hike and the Take It Slow Hike. The two groups departed and wandered down. The Rigorous Hike group took a trail covered in rocks, requiring dexterity and preserverance. The Take It Slow Hike stayed on a winding wide road to the bottom of the mountain.
Once at the bottom, the youth loaded up on the bus, heading home. Many of the youth said they had fun and were proud of themselves for making it to the top. Way to go!
About me
- I'm joanne
- From New Haven, CT
- We are an environmental education and youth development non-profit in New Haven, CT. We engage urban youth in their local environment using our unique program model: Kids Explore! (where youth learn about their local ecology and ecosystems) Kids Do! (where youth identify an environmental problem and utilize youth-led action to solve the issue) Kids Teach! (where youth educate others about what they have learned an accomplished). Our curriculum uses hands-on experiential lessons, games, songs and a dedicated staff to teach environmental concepts, build teamwork skills and empower youth. We run several programs, including our afterschool Steward Teams, in-school Hands-on Outdoor Learning Adventure, and our summer Citywide Steward camp. We also facilitate a Youth Advisory Group (YAG), where dedicated participants take leadership in the organization, including running their own programs and sitting on the Board of Directors. Our high school interns work in youth-adult partnership to run all our out of school programs, learning critical skills for future careers and personal growth. Join us as we share our many adventures and accomplishments with you.
- For more information about us, check out our website: SolarYouth.org
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