CELF’s focus on student-led, project-based inquiry has combined with Young Voices’ groundbreaking films and curricula to amplify and empower student voices
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Valhalla NY, April 25, 2023. The Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation announced today that it has added the Young Voices for the Planet’s series of groundbreaking films featuring student environmental action to its educational resources. The films are now available on CELF’s website (www.celfeducation.org/yvfp). Associated curriculum resources have also been absorbed into CELF’s portfolio of educational tools and will be made available later this year.
After more than a decade of innovation in youth voice empowerment and environmental education, over a dozen short films produced, workshops and film screenings hosted across North America, PBS broadcasts, National Geographic streaming, and numerous other creative partnerships, Young Voices for the Planet is now entering its next phase of growth as a part of CELF.
Young Voices for the Planet films and curricula were originally developed as a project of Young Voices on Climate Change, a nonprofit organization. All associated copyrights and trademarks have now been assigned and transferred to the Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with the mission to establish sustainability as an integral part of every child’s K-12 learning experience.
CELF Executive Director Tara Stafford Ocansey sees great potential in this combination, “As part of CELF, Young Voices for the Planet will continue to expand its impact of inspiring and supporting youth to take action for a sustainable future. CELF is energized by the prospects of a bright shared future, extending the avenues for young voices to share solutions and make an impact through storytelling.”
Young Voices for the Planet’s film producer and director for 13 years, Lynne Cherry explained, “On the seventh anniversary of my co-founder Gary Braasch’s death, it is deeply comforting to know that our dream to lift up student voices will live on at CELF and continue to inspire students and adults with its stories of hope.” Cherry is continuing her involvement as Young Voices Ambassador at CELF.
Young Voices for the Planet Executive Director Caleb Carlton expressed gratitude, “For more than a decade, the growth and impact of YVFP was sustained by incredible board members and staff, youth leaders, donors and grantors, volunteers, partners and friends. We will always be grateful for their support and leadership through the years.”
About the Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation
The Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation was founded in 2003 with the mission to establish sustainability as an integral part of every child’s K-12 learning experience. Through immersive and innovative professional learning programs for educators, CELF has reached over 1.5 million students, 15,000 educators, and over 5,000 schools across the country.
Media Contact:
Laura Steinberger
Chief Operating Officer
laura.steinberger@celfeducation.org
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