A picture, it has long been opined, is worth 1,000 words.
So imagine the words emitted from pictures by 110 Grade 6/7 Hillview Elementary students combing the streets of Vernon on Earth Day (April 22), taking photos that inspire them to think about climate action in the community.
Eager young photographers captured images throughout downtown Vernon that will be printed on canvas then displayed along the Hallway of Hope at the CARE Expo May 29 from 9:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. at the Vernon Curling Club.
Originated by Vernon School District counsellor Laura Masini-Pieralli, and learning coordinator Rhiannon Brunello, the Hope Project is aligned with Climate Action Ripple Effect (CARE), currently in its fourth year in Vernon and Lumby with all area high schools – almost 320 Grade 7-12 students – and 50 community mentors from all sectors.
The project aims to increase students’ climate awareness, while building on ‘hope’ as an action-oriented character strength that fosters increasing agency, motivation, and confidence that their goals can be reached.
The benefits of using photography for this was shared with teachers and students by Alison Beaumont, a local artist and mindful photography facilitator, whose climate-focused work also incorporates video and sound.
“Hopeful students are more likely to achieve academic success, show greater resilience, and experience higher levels of well-being," said Masini-Pieralli. "And by fostering hope, you empower students to believe in their ability to make meaningful contributions to local climate action efforts.”
Added Brunello: “While research shows that more than 80 per cent of youth say climate change makes them anxious about the future, this can be reduced by providing the knowledge and skills students need to take action.”
Brunello says the school district's strategic plan's goals for student success include empowering students to support climate action and have a positive impact on the environment, which can be accomplished through programs like CARE.
For more information about CARE, please contact jo@freshoutlookfoundation.org.
