One of the more compelling aspects of the ESRI/UC is the education sessions, and the inclusion of youth. This year, the work of a caving club in Montana were highlighted on the main stage for their work on raising awareness and remediating fragile cave ecosystems. The outstanding nature of their work brought them recognition from the President’s Environmental Youth Awards, and a trip to the white house.
While their advisor could have basked in the glory of all of this recognition, he took an absolutely opposite tack by stating flatly that while what these kids accomplished was worth note, they were by no means special kids. His experience is that all kids of this age want to make a difference to help protect the world, and that GIS is unique in its ability to empower them. He made a strong plug for attendees to get involved in the GeoMentor Program to help other youth to reach their potential.
In a similar fashion, the 4H continue to have a strong presence at this event to highlight their ongoing work. This year’s visit included a pre-event service learning mapping project to map invasive species at the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge. The commitment of their mentors, and their access to technology is making a difference in our understanding of fragile ecosystems, and igniting a passion that will spur ongoing mapping efforts.
I’ve just learned of another outreach effort, the Community YouthMapping, the national program was first instituted in 1995 by the Center for Youth Development and Policy Research. Since then, Community YouthMapping has been implemented in more than 100 sites across the United States, with the purpose of providing “accurate information to local communities on places to go, opportunities and things to do for young people, children and families.”
Mapping is an important tool for participation and fosters deeper connections to community. Passing along the passion, and enabling the next generation of mappers, is a noble and rewarding pursuit.
