Nalani Hill, 6 year nature buddy at CLE summer learning program, and teen volunteer, has received the 2022 Environmental Youth Leadership Award!
Her acceptance speech:
Hello my name is Nalani Hill. I am a 16 year old junior at Lake Forest Academy. Ever since I was a childI always had periods of time when I felt very overwhelmed and needed to disconnect from life. I used nature as my escape; whetherit was a walk on a trail, sitting at a lake, or just sitting outside journaling.
As I spent time outside I became very fascinated with birds and the different sounds they made. I was able to learn more about the different species when I started attending the Cool Learning Experience, in the third grade. CLE is a partner of Brushwood Center, and it became my second home for many summers. I built some of my best friendships and experiences in nature at that camp.
Brushwood's vision is to work toward connected communities that are engaged with the outdoors. If I had not attended CLE, I may have never gotten that experience. The community felt whole and the adults there always encouraged me to follow my dreams.
Additionally, I have been able to give back to my community by volunteering as a mentor with CLE, helping other students gain these skills and knowledge too. Being a recipient of this scholarship has brought me a step closer to achieving my goals, and I am extremely grateful for that.
Special thanks to Gail and Bill Sturm for supporting this scholarship. Thank you for your time, and don't forget to check out nature on your way out today.
