Over the last five years many of us have become more “green.” Using recyclable shopping bags, reducing our carbon footprint, investing in renewable energy are ways that many of us have chosen to assist in the reduction of global warming and improving the environment. And once a year, many of us celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd in the US and March 21 or 22nd around the world. Created in 1970 Earth Day is intended to raise awareness about a wide range of environmental issues and problems, and to inspire people to take personal action to address them.
How will you celebrate the Earth this year? What better way then to get out and volunteer with any number of environmental clean up projects that are part of Sun's Worldwide Volunteer Week.
In Boulder, CO volunteers can participate in a Forest Restoration project taking place on 4/24. Volunteers will restore unhealthy forests, enhance aspen stands, and reduce the risk of wildfires by thinning small trees and building slash piles.
In Fremont, CA volunteers are needed to participate in a river clean up on 4/18 from 9am-12pm. This is a fantastic opportunity that all family members over 6 years can participate in. The City of Fremont and local non-profit environmental groups are hosting this as part of an Earth Day event called "Earth Day Family Fair 2009."
In Redwood City, CA volunteers can join in a tree planting party on 4/18 from 9am- 12pm. This “family friendly” opportunity will start with a tree planting workshop and end with volunteers assisting in the planting of 50-60 trees in Redwood City.
In Boston, MA volunteers are needed to assist with the Charles River Clean Up on 4/25. Volunteers from 5 years and up are invited to assist with the clean up of the Charles River from the River Street Bridge East to the Museum of Science. Volunteers are provide gloves, trash bags, and are invited to a complementary cookout upon the completion of the event.
In Redwood City, CA Marine Science Institute has planned a great day honoring Planet Earth on Saturday, April 18, 2009 from 8 am – 4 pm. This all day event is to reach out to the local communities and provide a place to celebrate Earth Day and learn about caring for the planet in a fun way. Activities of the day include shark feeding, touching live ocean animals, ocean arts & crafts. Volunteers are needed to assist in supporting this event and its activities. Full or 1/2 day shifts are available. Youth over 14 are invited to assist with their parent.
To find out about these opportunities and so many more, check out the Volunteer Tool.