Everyone needs to know about the positive impact United Way’s (UW) efforts have on Lopez youth and their families. During the 2007-2008 school year, United Way, through a collaboration with the San Juan County 4-H program, helped to expand the Rishi Environmental Learning Center Garden at the Lopez Elementary School by providing seeds, gardening and classroom supplies, and a new irrigation system.

The Lopez Island Farm Education (L.I.F.E.) program served over 150 Lopez youth of all ages this past school year. Youth experience the miracle of where their food comes from and that, through their own efforts, they can grow organic food for their own school cafeteria! With the “mobile culinary kitchen,” youth are learning in the classroom how to create healthy meals from the foods they’ve grown.

Sustainable agriculture practices teach Lopez teens about lifestyle choices and the resulting impact upon our Earth. Teens experience the importance of community involvement for sustainable living, working local farmers, and the joy of service by volunteering in the school cafeteria and for Lopez Fresh. As well, students experience hands-on their role as environmental stewards.

Lopez students of all ages are taking pride in being responsible for their health and the health of our Earth. Research shows that healthy diets increase academic productivity and decrease behavioral problems in school.

Please join 4-H in helping to support Lopez youth by donating to United Way today.

For information about 4-H programs on Lopez Island, call the 4-H Program Coordinator at 370-7662.