Transform Your Community: Become an Environmental Steward and Make a Lasting Impact!

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Are you passionate about the environment? If you want to make a difference in your community, the Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program is looking for volunteers for 2025. Supported by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, this program provides a great chance to learn from experts about environmental issues in New Jersey, including climate change.

According to Union County Commissioner Chairperson Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, “Our Environmental Stewards Program connects residents with professionals in the field. This gives everyone the skills they need to create an environmentally aware community.” If you love nature and want to take action, this program could be a perfect fit for you.

Participants in the program will explore important topics such as climate change, habitat protection, environmental justice, and recycling. This knowledge is important, as it helps you understand local and global challenges and how they affect our lives.

The classes will meet weekly on Tuesdays, starting January 21 and running until May 13, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Each session will feature an expert who will present on a specific topic. Afterward, you’ll get to discuss local issues in smaller groups, which is a great way to connect with others who care about the environment.

Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski said, “We are proud to work with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension to empower people with practical skills that protect our surroundings. Caring for the environment takes teamwork.” If you are interested, you can also check out other volunteer programs like Master Gardener and Tree Stewards.

The cost to join the program is $325, but there’s an early bird rate of $300 if you sign up before December 31. For more details or to register, visit go.rutgers.edu/RES2025. If you’re ready to learn and volunteer, this program is for you.

If you need more help, you can reach out to Michele Bakacs, a county agent and associate professor for the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, at [email protected] or call 732-398-5274.

For more information on all programs offered by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension in Union County, check out ucnj.org/rce.