June Stories
For us, GGO is so much about working with the students. Each week in the classroom or on an outing brings new interactions and friendships that remind us the importance of what we do, and inspire us to do more.

As part of our newsletter, we would love to share some of our amazing memories leading programming at L'Ouverture Middle School's summer session.
Week 1

In an effort to break the ice and do something fun with the students, we brought re-used containers and some seed packets to plant and watch grow throughout the month. We did this in small groups each class period. One group of boys in particular, rambunctious and high energy, were debating what plant they wanted in their container. Their options were some colorful flowers or basil. "Trust me, we've gotta do basil," one boy asserted the group "you know, it can add flavors. I cannot wait to put it on my chicken." The group was silenced, realizing their friend had made a great point. They all jumped for joy when I returned with the basil seeds, and every week since have watered their plant with the utmost care, looking forward to the day they can reap what they sowed.
Week 2

Our students took an active stance against pollution by cleaning up litter in the surrounding neighborhood of L'Ouverture. One student was particularly enthusiastic about the clean-up. He would dash to pickup any trash he saw, determined to clean the most. When a leader told him how impressed she was by his enthusiasm, he bluntly responded, "We've got to protect the Earth!" and then he quickly ran away to collect another stray plastic cup.
Week 3

On Friday, we took a day trip to Lone Elk State Park. We went on a short hike through the forest, and drove around the park to see elk, bison, and deer. On our hike, a girl approached one of our leaders with a simple request, "can you hold Sam while I take off my jacket?" The leader was confused as to who Sam was initially, then looked down at the stick she was holding. There resided a green, fuzzy caterpillar. "It's name is Sam, because it could be a girl or a boy" she stated simply. The leader chuckled and marveled at the beautiful creature. It was in vigilant hands until she determined it would be happier to roam free. Safe travels, Sam!
Week 4

Our students learned about climate change, greenhouse gasses, and nonrenewable vs. renewable energy sources. After discussing the pros and cons of renewable energy, one of our students asked "Why should we care about the price, isn't the toll fossil fuels have on our environment reason enough to switch?" He then began brainstorming different eco-friendly inventions such as cars that run off of seawater to prevent flooding of coastal cities.
June Memories
Students enjoying the World Bird Sanctuary
Students harvesting & trying the lettuce that they planted and grew over the course of summer school
Student finds bird feather on our hike!
Volunteer of the Month
June's volunteer of the month is Caroline Dempsey. Caroline is a rising senior at Washington University in St. Louis who is majoring in Environmental Policy and Writing. Caroline is an active participant in GGO summer internship program. We asked her a few questions to highlight her hard work and dedication.

Q: Why do you like volunteering with GGO?
A: The students have a contagious and abundant energy towards life. Being around them is reinvigorating and always lively. When I can help guide that energy towards caring for our planet, that's the best for all of us.

Q: Do you have any advice for someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?
A: First of all, definitely become a volunteer. Second, as much as you want to become friends with the students right away, it definitely takes some time to become comfortable. Be patient and good times are in your future!

If you want to learn more about Caroline click here!
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