Applications are being accepted for the 4-H Activate Sunnyside Sustainability Club.  We are seeking 10-15 middle and high school students from the Sunnyside Community who would like to explore sustainability, discover ways to help their community and develop their leadership skills!  Students will partner with SE Uplift, Oregon State University and local volunteers to create rain gardens and a bioswale at the SE Uplift office on Main Street near Sunnyside Environmental School.  

May through September students will meet 1-2 times per month for fun, hands-on activities that help them discover the importance and function of rain gardens, bioswales and similar projects.  During this time students will also develop important leadership skills as they work with community volunteers and experts in sustainability to plan, organize and begin work on installation of the sustainability projects.  Once autumn arrives and planting within the rain gardens can begin, club members will organize planting projects and lead community volunteer days.  They will also have opportunities to teach students and community members about their project so that others can gain the skills and knowledge needed to create rain gardens of their own.

It is our goal that the 4-H club will continue even after the projects are complete as club members continue to explore a wide variety of sustainability topics while finding ways to make a difference within their community.  The projects that the students will create at SE Uplift will last for many years to come and showcase the efforts and dedication of youth who wish to make a difference in their community.  The days and times of month the club will meet will be determined on the availability and needs of club members and their families.   If your child would like to participate in the 4-H Activate Sunnyside Sustainability Club please email Jon Mayer at jonathan.mayer@oregonstate.edu or call him at 503-916-6074.