Our work with Caroline Brewer is a demonstration of Conservation Nation’s commitment to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through partnerships that elevate underrepresented voices and cultivate relationships that invest in the conservation leaders of today and tomorrow. With her help, the Environmental Justice Interns created Through My Anacostia Eyes: Environmental Problems and Possibilities, a 65-page collection of written reflections from the students, including a piece by Conservation Nation intern, Miguel Zarate. Miguel mused on assisting Caroline in an activity based on the story of urban gardening legend Will Allen, writing “As Will Allen brought fresh fruits and vegetables to the tables of Milwaukee, and eventually the world, Ms. Brewer brings her stories, and the stories of others, with uncharacteristic enthusiasm to teaching. With her guidance, bit by bit, my anxiety turned into confidence. Little did I know, this would be the start of not just an internship, but a journey, working with this author/educator and the high-schoolers. I can’t be more grateful to be a part of it.”

Working in gardens was a highlight for many students. When they visited Sousa Middle School to offer gardening assistance, they enjoyed planting melons, radishes, and other produce. NeKaeyla said she liked learning to garden the right way, and it was surprisingly simple. Thanks to Conservation Nation, they also experienced a boat ride along the Anacostia River, a visit to the Earth Conservation Corp’s Matthew Henson Center to learn about raptor conservation, and a memorable afternoon witnessing the annual lotus blooms at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. Keveon Graves said the boat tour was his favorite experience. Not only was it a nice break from all the work they had been doing in the gardens, but it was pleasant to experience a different environment. He found that the outdoor trips were a nice way to relax. Overall, the students grew to love the program as they challenged themselves in new ways and built relationships. “At first I didn’t understand what the internship was about, but over time I became more excited and interested in our activities,” reported Kahri Borum.

Conservation Nation is grateful to Xavier Brown for extending the invitation for us to contribute to this summer program in such meaningful ways, and to our partner Caroline Brewer for sharing her joy, passion, and positive energy with the students. “Getting a chance to see their creativity and thoughtfulness flow was like watching flowers bloom,” Caroline says. “It was exhilarating. Every day was an adventure. Something new, something meaningful, something memorable and uplifting happened each day.”

To learn more about Conservation Nation’s upcoming Nature-Wise trainings with Caroline Brewer and receive access to our education materials featuring diverse role models in conservation, join our Conservation Nation Academy mailing list by filling out the form below or contact us at [email protected].