In 2019 Youth & Ecological Restoration (YER) produced a tribute to the decade of work that has led to more than 360 youth participants reconnecting with nature.
The YER film “Ecology Transforms Youth” was shown at the World Community Film Festival on February 2nd. Created by filmmaker Ed Carswell (www.carswellfilm.ca), it follows eight youth as they explore the rivers and estuaries of the Comox Valley.
The film was funded by the following community groups and individuals: Oyster River Enhancement Society; Courtenay & District Fish and Game Protective Association; Comox Valley Community Justice Centre; Tsolum River Restoration Society; Paul Horgen; Jane Gilcrest; Millard Piercy Watershed Stewards; Stewart McIntosh; Individual Contributions; Barbara and Gwyneth Huhn; and Cummings Home.
YER was created in 2004 to help youth build healthy community relationships with the human and natural worlds. Youth restore local watersheds with community members to gain a sense of worth, belonging and place. They are engaged with one-on-one work experience through ecological restoration methods, ecotherapy practices and mentoring support. BC Ministry of Children and Family Development funds YER.
When YER was created fifteen years ago it was impossible to envision its longevity and success. It came from a dream to involve youth with ecology of place and help them to believe in themselves.
Wendy
I simply adore what you are doing. I would like to visit the stream and learn more. Gratitude 🙏🏾 Shirley Lewis
Thanks Shirley!
Thanks for all you do, Wendy
My pleasure! Thanks for taking the time to comment.
What a fantastic program.
Ecotherapy at its finest.
You are an incredible role model to everyone
Thank you, Jennifer!
Great job Wendy!!! The effort you have put into working with the youth of today & instilling an awareness & appreciation for Mother Nature & all she has to offer is wonderful. I am sure many of the individuals you have touched with your program will, move forward, also become involved in community work in an effort to help Mother Nature & all she has to offer!!!!
You are an inspiration!!!!!
Terry
Thank you, Terry!
Wow this is a wonderful program, this program is so needed today. Technology can be soul sucking for us all, but especially for the kids who haven’t yet had the opportunity to be immersed in nature and be embraced by her rhythms, sights and sounds.
Your vision, implementation and perseverance is outstanding. Let me know how I can help.