Okanagan Youth Take a Stand: Passionate About Protecting the Environment

The passion for environmental care is growing stronger among young people. A recent event at Charles Bloom Secondary in Lumby brought together nearly 400 teachers, students, parents, and community mentors to kick off the 2025 Climate Action Ripple Effect (CARE) program.

The day started with a lively skit from drama students at Vernon’s Clarence Fulton Secondary, setting an energetic tone for the event. This marks the fourth year of CARE, which aims to spark student-led projects focused on environmental action.

In addition to Lumby’s success, School District 23 in Central Okanagan is piloting the CARE program, adding hundreds of middle and high schoolers. With almost 1,000 students involved this year, the program is expanding rapidly.

Jo de Vries, the CARE coordinator and founder of Fresh Outlook Foundation, expressed excitement about this growth. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for mentors from all walks of life to guide students,” she said. Mentors help turn students’ ideas into real climate solutions.

Recent surveys show that around 70% of young people feel concerned about climate change, making programs like CARE vital. They provide a platform for students to express their ideas and take action in their communities.

Students are now collaborating with mentors to develop projects that align with local climate goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Their hard work will be showcased at the CARE Expo on May 29 at the Vernon Curling Club. This event is a great chance to celebrate their achievements and discover innovative climate solutions.

The expo will feature various activities, including performances from the Alexis Park Elementary choir and exhibits from local climate-focused businesses. It’s a community effort to promote climate resilience and health.

For those interested in getting involved or learning more about mentorship opportunities, reaching out to Fresh Outlook Foundation can provide valuable insights. The potential for young people to make a difference is enormous, and community support can help amplify their efforts.

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