Wild Hope for Indiana's Environment

Our actions today can have a real impact on our planet. In partnership with the WILD HOPE, a NATURE series, WFYI has created action plans and videos that may help you find your part to play in preserving biodiversity, supporting healthy environments and learning how you can preserve natural spaces, flora and fauna. WFYI's Climate Action Guide is made possible with funding from WNET Wild Hope and the PBS Climate & Environment Engagement Fund.

ACTION PLANS

Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation
Biodiversity, Conservation and Habitat Restoration
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Get easy-to-use resources on agriculture, biodiversity and energy below!

Fueling the Change: Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation

Local Resources

  • Hoosier Environmental Council: Advocacy and education organization promoting environmental protection, engaging youth through leadership training and action campaigns.
  • Earth Charter IN: Offers educational resources and promotes sustainable practices, including renewable energy advocacy.
  • STEM Connection:  Indianapolis based organization that provides Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education for youth. Offering a variety of programs tailored towards increasing access to STEM education, particularly for underrepresented groups.
  • Youth Environmental Press Team (YEPT): An Indiana-based organization that empowers high school journalists to enhance their skills, fostering a network of support as they collaboratively write, lead, and advocate for environmental and climate crisis stories published on various platforms.
  • Student Conservation Association: Provides hands-on conservation opportunities for high school students in Indiana and nationwide, including projects related to renewable energy and energy conservation.

Online Resources

Strength in Diversity: Biodiversity, Conservation & Habitat Restoration

Local Resources

  • The Nature Conservancy in Indiana: Offers educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and resources for youth interested in protecting Indiana's natural lands.
  • Indiana Wildlife Federation: Provides educational programs, workshops, and events for youth on various conservation topics.
  • Indiana Native Plant Society: Promotes the understanding and appreciation of native plants through educational programs, field trips, and volunteer opportunities.
  • Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR): Manages state parks, forests, and nature preserves. They offer volunteer opportunities for youth in various areas.
  • Purdue University Extension Forestry and Natural Resources: Offers educational programs and workshops for youth on topics like forestry, wildlife conservation, and natural resource management.
  • Indianapolis Zoo: Provides educational programs and camps for youth on animal-related topics, including conservation and habitat restoration.
  • Wesselman Woods: A nature preserve in Evansville with over 200 acres of old-growth forest, offers environmental education and outdoor adventures for all.
  • Local Parks and Nature Preserves: Many local parks and nature preserves offer volunteer opportunities for youth. You can find contact information through your city or county government website.

Our Food, Our Future: Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems

Local Resources

  • Felege Hiywot Center: Inspired by Ethiopian roots and meaning "Looking for Direction To Life," the Center cultivates Indianapolis youth into responsible community members through urban farming, teamwork and service projects.
  • Hoosier Young Farmers Coalition: Young farmers and food advocates working to recruit, support, and promote young and beginning farmers throughout the state of Indiana.
  • Purdue Extension - Small Farms, Purdue Hydroponic Crop Production Information, Indiana Urban Farming Network.
  • Earth Charter IN: Engages in sustainability education and offers resources on farming and food systems, including programs on “Zero Waste Cafeterias” and more.
  • The Nature Conservancy in Indiana: Engages youth in environmental education and restoration projects.
  • The Children's Museum of Indianapolis: Offers programs and exhibits on gardening and sustainability, with volunteer opportunities for youth.

Online Resources

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