Dear friends,
I’m excited! The New Year is almost upon us and that’s big news for EDC. We’re turning 20 in 2010 and Earth Day hits the big 4-0 milestone. Some might expect lavish celebrations across the country, but we’re sticking to what we do best—providing Canadians with the practical knowledge and tools they need to lessen their impact on the environment every day.
In this issue of Earth Tones, you’ll read about how EDC is gearing up for 2010. We’ve launched a new Every Day Heroes film competition. Our EcoKids Program is working to develop new French as a Second Language lesson plans. You’ll also hear about a new program where some elementary school students across Canada report on best environmental practices at their school and in their community. Oh yes, I’m also really excited to honour Bruce Cockburn with the Outstanding Commitment to the Environment Award at this year’s EDC Gala...
It’s so inspiring to see and read about what every day Canadians are doing to support a healthier environment. I applaud all of you.
Enjoy your latest issue of Earth Tones,
Jed
Every Day Heroes film competition
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of EDC and the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, we’re calling on all filmmakers, young and old, established and aspiring, to submit 90-second silent videos that tell the story of ordinary Canadians supporting a healthier environment.
With three categories—Under 18, 18 and Over, and Best of Competition—filmmakers have the opportunity to win a MacBook Pro Laptop or trip for two anywhere in North America. Finalists will also have their videos screened in Ivanhoe Cambridge Shopping Malls across Canada, on the Onestop Network of 270 monitors on the subway platforms of the Toronto Transit Commission, as well as hosted on Earth Day Canada’s website and YouTube channel.
Visit Earth Day Canada for more information. The submission deadline is March 1, 2010.
Bruce Cockburn to be honoured at the EDC Gala
The EDC Gala, the coolest environmental event around, is back at the Drake Hotel on June 9th. Also making their triumphant return—Michael Stadtländer, world renowned chef, and Mark McKinney, EDC Gala Producer.
Yes, we know it’s early, but we want to give our friends a sneak peek at this year’s event as well as the opportunity to take advantage of some early bird discount pricing on our sponsorship packages. Purchase any sponsorship package before January 31st and receive two free additional tickets.
And yes, the rumours are true... Bruce Cockburn will receive the Outstanding Commitment to the Environment Award.
So what are you doing on June 9th? Contact Reid Bodley at 416.599.1991 x204 or reid@earthday.ca to arrange a sponsorship package for this EDC signature event.
Bonjour...mon nom est EcoKids
EDC is thrilled to announce that the EcoKids Program will soon offer free environmentally-themed French lesson plans thanks to the support of Laboratories Klorane. Klorane, a leading producer of plant based organic skin products, will also help EDC develop French as a Second Language (FSL) teaching resources.
To take advantage of some great teaching resources, including curriculum linked and ESL materials, please visit the EcoKids’ Teachers Lounge. You may even want to apply to the 2010 Great EcoKids Challenge while you’re there.
EDC provides $378 000 in funding
The first granting period of EDC’s Community Environment Fund was a phenomenal success. With the support of Sobeys, EDC awarded $378 000 to 21 local schools and community groups across Ontario.
Recipient projects include the Malton Community Garden by EcoSource; Oak Savannah Restoration by Lower Trenton Conservation; and, an Outdoor Learning Classroom by Pretty River Academy. To read more about these and other outstanding projects, please visit the Community Environment Fund.
The deadline for the second granting period is February 28, 2010. Click here to apply.
Get trained to be a mentor
EDC’s EcoMentors Program is hosting an upcoming training session on December 12th in North York, ON. Training sessions are open to all youth and are free of charge.
So, if you’re between the ages of 15 and 24, this is your opportunity to explore how you can encourage positive environmental awareness and action as an EcoMentor. Get volunteer hours, valuable skills and experiences, certification, rewards packages, references, and much, much more!
For more information or to register for the North York and other upcoming training sessions, visit EcoMentors today.
EcoReporters from the frontline project
Congratulations to Westglen School (AB), Herb Campbell Public School (ON), Terry Fox Elementary School (QC), St. Joseph’s All Grade (Nfld), Haldane Elementary (BC) and JBT Elementary School (NWT) for becoming EDC’s EcoReporters from the Frontline.
In partnership with the Sony Canada Charitable Foundation, EcoKids created this unique project to get firsthand accounts from a child’s perspective on the best environmental initatives in communities across Canada. Featured elementary school students will document their environmental stories and actions through articles, photos and videos.
Please visit the EcoKids kids section to view their submissions starting in February.
EcoAction Teams: You spoke and we listened
Last summer, EDC’s EcoAction Teams took on a complete program evaluation, engaging program participants, partners and stakeholders. What a great experience!
Here are a few key findings: 96% of program participants enjoy learning about the environment online; 72% feel that EcoAction Teams has helped them conserve energy and water, reduce waste, and support sustainable transportation and local food production. Many respondents also identified the need for French content and weighed in on our program name.
Stay tuned for more updates on EDC’s EcoAction Teams as we work to make the program more accessible through an expanded online community, the development of cross-sectoral and community-based partnerships with diverse cultural organizations, and enhanced listings of the latest tips to help Canadians reduce their environmental impact.
Support Earth Day Canada
Since 1990, Earth Day® Canada has continually created truly innovative approaches to conservation across Canada. To continue this work we hope you will consider making a gift of $25, $50, or more. A tax receipt will be issued for each donation.
To donate online, visit Earth Day® Canada’s website.
You can also mail a cheque to Earth Day® Canada:
111 Peter St., Suite 503
Toronto, ON, M5V 2H1
Attention: Jed Goldberg, President, Earth Day Canada
Earth Day® Canada is a registered adherent to Imagine Canada’s Ethical Fundraising and Financial Accountability Code. Earth Day Canada is a registered charity (#13195 1378 RR0001).
