Newsletter Tuesday, August 8th, 2023
Dear NCH2 Community,
Back to School: Our summer weather has been so fabulous this past week-it is hard to digest that Back to School August is in full view. As our communities prepare to head back to the classroom, take care to watch for students walking and rolling to school! This newsletter highlights the importance of school recess in the health of students (In The News) and the opportunity to learn more about the programmatic shift to Green Schoolyards (Virtual August 9th - See Upcoming Events.)
Understanding the Effects of Intense Heat: The day for HeatWatch Chicago kicked into full gear on July 28th at 5:00 a.m. across the entire city--all 77 community areas with 5 hubs, 29 routes measured 3 times--and finished at 8:00 p.m. We are so grateful for the leadership of the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Office of Climate and Environmental Equity and Northwestern's Buffett Institute of Global Affairs, Diffusing Disasters Initiative. The Heatwatch team worked in constant communication with the National Weather Service to identify a high heat, low wind, low/no precipitation day to assess with as accurately as possible the heat and humidity in neighborhoods throughout Chicago.
It is truly awesome to see the hundreds of volunteers (over 550 people) who signed up for this effort. People from around the region were nimble and committed to this effort as they had to train, be prepared, and at the ready once the date was determined. With this data, as well as community-driven information, the team will develop a "heat vulnerability index," a measure that can help identify areas that may need more public health and policy interventions, and suggest community-specific interventions, to combat the adverse effects of heat stress. Stay tuned for next steps on this comprehensive initiative.
Back to School: Our summer weather has been so fabulous this past week-it is hard to digest that Back to School August is in full view. As our communities prepare to head back to the classroom, take care to watch for students walking and rolling to school! This newsletter highlights the importance of school recess in the health of students (In The News) and the opportunity to learn more about the programmatic shift to Green Schoolyards (Virtual August 9th - See Upcoming Events.)
Understanding the Effects of Intense Heat: The day for HeatWatch Chicago kicked into full gear on July 28th at 5:00 a.m. across the entire city--all 77 community areas with 5 hubs, 29 routes measured 3 times--and finished at 8:00 p.m. We are so grateful for the leadership of the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Office of Climate and Environmental Equity and Northwestern's Buffett Institute of Global Affairs, Diffusing Disasters Initiative. The Heatwatch team worked in constant communication with the National Weather Service to identify a high heat, low wind, low/no precipitation day to assess with as accurately as possible the heat and humidity in neighborhoods throughout Chicago.
It is truly awesome to see the hundreds of volunteers (over 550 people) who signed up for this effort. People from around the region were nimble and committed to this effort as they had to train, be prepared, and at the ready once the date was determined. With this data, as well as community-driven information, the team will develop a "heat vulnerability index," a measure that can help identify areas that may need more public health and policy interventions, and suggest community-specific interventions, to combat the adverse effects of heat stress. Stay tuned for next steps on this comprehensive initiative.
Index
Community spotlight
Upcoming Events
Future Events and Ongoing
Job Opportunities
In the News
Connect with Us
Community spotlight
Upcoming Events
Future Events and Ongoing
Job Opportunities
In the News
Connect with Us
Gen Z Leaders: Chicago Green Ambassadors
At Big Marsh Park--Left to Right: Sophia(5th), Samiya (6th) and Juan(8th) and co-leader Levi Jenkins on far right
,Rising college freshmen Sophia Speller, Samiya Johnson, and Juan Garcia recently talked with NCH2 about their experience working with 9 other high school students from the region as Field MuseumnChicago Green Ambassadors (CGA) summer interns. After hearing about the internship from Field staff and Advanced Placement Environmental Science high school teachers, the three leaders enthusiastically applied for the opportunity.
With Levi Jenkins and Ylanda Wilhite as their guides, the CGA cohort decided together to focus on the pressing issues surrounding water. The group immersed themselves in current, climate relevant issues like access to clean water, flooding, drought, the flow of the Chicago River and the cost of water. With Field Museum mentors and community voices they developed an understanding of how to address water-related issues, such as flooding mitigation and heat island effects. The impersonal but telling data of a map came alive and real when they were in communities talking about these very current issues with residents.
When asked what surprised them about their experience, Sophia noted that she understands the "content" of environmental justice (EJ) as more complex than what she had learned previously. The CGA internship exposed her to landscape design, a new concept to her as a way to solve EJ concerns; Samiya was impressed with the number of people needed to plan and implement community projects; and Juan observed that many community residents don't know how to help their own community--the lack of knowledge caused inaction. They were all surprised that the CGA consensus process was smooth--relying on one another and hearing one another's perceptions created the unison needed to focus on one issue.
Samiya, Sophia, and Juan all appreciated the CGA educational experiences, understanding the concept of community "assets," the Field Museum mentors, and the community leaders and know it will be a resource to them for years to come. With this experience the three are looking forward to their college education -- Samiya heading to Trinity College in CT; Sophia to Xavier University in LA; and Juan to University of Illinois in Urbana--and aspiring to apply their experience from the summer.
With Levi Jenkins and Ylanda Wilhite as their guides, the CGA cohort decided together to focus on the pressing issues surrounding water. The group immersed themselves in current, climate relevant issues like access to clean water, flooding, drought, the flow of the Chicago River and the cost of water. With Field Museum mentors and community voices they developed an understanding of how to address water-related issues, such as flooding mitigation and heat island effects. The impersonal but telling data of a map came alive and real when they were in communities talking about these very current issues with residents.
When asked what surprised them about their experience, Sophia noted that she understands the "content" of environmental justice (EJ) as more complex than what she had learned previously. The CGA internship exposed her to landscape design, a new concept to her as a way to solve EJ concerns; Samiya was impressed with the number of people needed to plan and implement community projects; and Juan observed that many community residents don't know how to help their own community--the lack of knowledge caused inaction. They were all surprised that the CGA consensus process was smooth--relying on one another and hearing one another's perceptions created the unison needed to focus on one issue.
Samiya, Sophia, and Juan all appreciated the CGA educational experiences, understanding the concept of community "assets," the Field Museum mentors, and the community leaders and know it will be a resource to them for years to come. With this experience the three are looking forward to their college education -- Samiya heading to Trinity College in CT; Sophia to Xavier University in LA; and Juan to University of Illinois in Urbana--and aspiring to apply their experience from the summer.
Upcoming Events
Photo, Laura Derks
Greening Our Schoolyards - Webinar
Join this call tomorrow (no pre-registration necessary) to learn more about the effort to green schoolyards across the country to improve access to nature, to engage with school families and nearby neighbors, to offer space for edible gardens, and many more goals. This webinar will explore the opportunities and barriers, policies, processes, and best practices in greening schoolyards while simultaneously exposing children to nature in areas that need it most.
When: August 9th, 12:00 - 1:15 p.m. CST
Where: Visit the Urban Forest Connections Webinar Series--use this month’s webinar link.
Join this call tomorrow (no pre-registration necessary) to learn more about the effort to green schoolyards across the country to improve access to nature, to engage with school families and nearby neighbors, to offer space for edible gardens, and many more goals. This webinar will explore the opportunities and barriers, policies, processes, and best practices in greening schoolyards while simultaneously exposing children to nature in areas that need it most.
When: August 9th, 12:00 - 1:15 p.m. CST
Where: Visit the Urban Forest Connections Webinar Series--use this month’s webinar link.
Photo, Laura Derks
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Out in Nature at South Shore Nature Sanctuary
Join fellow LGBTQ+ community members for a day of volunteer stewardship of the Sanctuary, including trash cleanup and invasive species removal, followed by a picnic and optional swim. Pack your own lunch, bring your swimsuit. Snacks and some drinks will be provided. When: August 19th, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Where: South Shore Nature Sanctuary. Registration requested here |
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Colors of the Forest – Natural Dyes
A hands-on class to teach the traditional uses of plants and trees as dyes. This event is co-hosted by the Trickster Gallery as part of a botanical photography exhibit at Trailside. Trickster Gallery is the only Native American owned and operated arts institution in the state of Illinois. For adults, call to register at 708-366-6530. When: Aug. 26th, 10:30 Where: Trailside Museum, Forest Preserves Cook County, River Forest. |
Image, Trickster Cultural Center Logo
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Image, Laura Derks
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Arboricultural (How to Take Care of Trees) Career Fair
The Chicago Regional Trees Initiative (CRTI) is hosting its second annual Trees and Tacos Arboricultural Career Fair. The fair provides demonstrations of tree care work, booths for employers in the industry, and a great chance to network with of tree industry professionals. Free Tacos for the first 100 participants! When: August 25th, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Where: Thatcher Woods Pavilion, Forest Preserves of Cook County |
Forest Bathing in Spanish and English
Join certified bilingual Forest Bathing leader Alison Paul with this immersive experience. Free and open to the public.
When: August 26th, 11:30 a.m.
Where: Sauk Trail Woods-Central Grove
Register Here
Join certified bilingual Forest Bathing leader Alison Paul with this immersive experience. Free and open to the public.
When: August 26th, 11:30 a.m.
Where: Sauk Trail Woods-Central Grove
Register Here
Future Events
Photo, Laura Derks
Migrating Monarchs Celebration
Learn about and view live monarch butterflies as we raise, tag and release them so they can journey to Mexico. All ages welcome and many ways to interact and learn about this "short of miraculous" annual journey. Learn more here.
Free and open to the public.
When: September 9th, 12 - 3:00 p.m.
Where: Thatcher Pavilion, Forest Preserves of Cook County
Learn about and view live monarch butterflies as we raise, tag and release them so they can journey to Mexico. All ages welcome and many ways to interact and learn about this "short of miraculous" annual journey. Learn more here.
Free and open to the public.
When: September 9th, 12 - 3:00 p.m.
Where: Thatcher Pavilion, Forest Preserves of Cook County
Image, Maple Lake in Palos courtesy of Tom Hahn
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Palos Night Sky Picnic
Sag Moraine Native Plant Community is partnering with DarkSky Chicago and the Forest Preserves of Cook County to present the Palos Night Sky Picnic in Pioneer Woods on September 15. Bring your own picnic dinner and join us for live music, exhibits & presentations, and to view the night sky in the Palos Preserves. Astronomers will be there with telescopes after dark. When: September 15th, 5- 10:00 p.m. Where: Pioneer Woods Please register in advance. |
Job Opportunities
New
At Brushwood Center--See more details Here.
Coalition Building Manager--With experience in community organizing and engagement as well as a passion for public health, the outdoors, and community-building. The Coalition Building Manager of The Health, Equity, and Nature Accelerator will work closely with the Senior Program Director, Accelerator Research Fellow, Youth Education Coordinator, and partner staff at Clean Power Lake County.
Youth Education Coordinator--Will lead the coordination and implementation of bilingual youth programming with partners across Lake County. The Youth Education Coordinator will work collaboratively with the
Senior Program Director and the Coalition Building Manager and will support Brushwood Center’s It’s A W.I.N. (Art & Wellness in Nature)
Other employment opportunities
BUILD Chicago has multiple positions open including a Director of Clinical and Community Wellness.
Metropolitan Planning Council is currently hiring a Grants Manager and a Development Director.
Windy City Harvest is hiring for multiple positions.
Urban Growers Collective is hiring for multiple positions --here.
Black Oaks Farm is looking to hire for its current 2023 growing season. See listings Here.
Dupage Forest Preserves has an opening for Natural Resources Restoration Supervisor here
The Experimental Station has its Deputy Director of Finance position open. For more information, go Here.
Friends of the Parks is looking to fill the Director of Policy and Advocacy. Applicants should send their resume and cover letter to [email protected]. The position will be posted on their website soon.
Elevate is looking to fill many positions. Look through their career opportunities here.
Equiticity has multiple positions open including Senior Director of Development and Director of Finance. Learn more here.
Faith in Place Eco-Ambassador applications for area high school students are open! Learn more here.
The Friends of the Forest Preserves is looking to fill several positions in the Adult Conservation Corps. Learn more here.
Imani Green Health Advocates Is looking for applicants for its Paid Trainee and Mentor positions. Learn more here.
Openlands is looking to fill its Chief Executive Officer! Learn more here.
Star Farm is looking to fill two positions. Learn more here.
Please send us your job openings to be featured!
At Brushwood Center--See more details Here.
Coalition Building Manager--With experience in community organizing and engagement as well as a passion for public health, the outdoors, and community-building. The Coalition Building Manager of The Health, Equity, and Nature Accelerator will work closely with the Senior Program Director, Accelerator Research Fellow, Youth Education Coordinator, and partner staff at Clean Power Lake County.
Youth Education Coordinator--Will lead the coordination and implementation of bilingual youth programming with partners across Lake County. The Youth Education Coordinator will work collaboratively with the
Senior Program Director and the Coalition Building Manager and will support Brushwood Center’s It’s A W.I.N. (Art & Wellness in Nature)
Other employment opportunities
BUILD Chicago has multiple positions open including a Director of Clinical and Community Wellness.
Metropolitan Planning Council is currently hiring a Grants Manager and a Development Director.
Windy City Harvest is hiring for multiple positions.
Urban Growers Collective is hiring for multiple positions --here.
Black Oaks Farm is looking to hire for its current 2023 growing season. See listings Here.
Dupage Forest Preserves has an opening for Natural Resources Restoration Supervisor here
The Experimental Station has its Deputy Director of Finance position open. For more information, go Here.
Friends of the Parks is looking to fill the Director of Policy and Advocacy. Applicants should send their resume and cover letter to [email protected]. The position will be posted on their website soon.
Elevate is looking to fill many positions. Look through their career opportunities here.
Equiticity has multiple positions open including Senior Director of Development and Director of Finance. Learn more here.
Faith in Place Eco-Ambassador applications for area high school students are open! Learn more here.
The Friends of the Forest Preserves is looking to fill several positions in the Adult Conservation Corps. Learn more here.
Imani Green Health Advocates Is looking for applicants for its Paid Trainee and Mentor positions. Learn more here.
Openlands is looking to fill its Chief Executive Officer! Learn more here.
Star Farm is looking to fill two positions. Learn more here.
Please send us your job openings to be featured!
In the News
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School Recess a Necessity -- not Always an Option
Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created evidence-based guidelines to help schools create high-quality recess programs, recent research shows these are not uniformly implemented. A study published in June in the Journal of School health “identifies significant gaps in how schools implement recess programs,” according to information from the National Collaborative on Childhood Obesity (NCCOR). That 76% children ages 6-17 do not get enough physical activity emphasizes the importance of recess. A report from NCCOR says “The newly published paper uses data from six nationally representative surveys (available through NCCOR's Catalogue of Surveillance Systems) to examine how closely schools adhere to the CDC guidelines.” While the majority of elementary school students receive at least 20 minutes of recess on a school day, adherence to CDC guidelines wanes, and information for middle-school and high school students is limited. Read more about this report and see a webinar on the topic at [email protected] |
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Photo, Lower Wacker Drive Chicago
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Underground Climate Change
Researchers at Northwestern University are studying climate change below the surface – the heat generated by building basements, the subway system, parking garages and other below-ground areas. That heat, mixing with warm surface air, “has made for a significantly hotter underground,” according to July 11 story by Brett Chase in the Chicago Sun-Times. Alessandro Rotta Loria, an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering, measured the heat. Mr. Chase quoted from an interview with Mr. Rotta Loria: “The undisturbed ground temperature in the Chicago area is about 52 degrees Fahrenheit. … In the heart of the Loop, we measured a ground temperature exceeding 70 degrees. In some underground structures, we measured more than 97 degrees.” These areas, he said, are “significant drivers of underground climate change.” He said, though, that there is no “imminent threat” of building collapsing. Their research is published in the journal Communications Engineering, which is affiliated with the London-based scientific journal Nature, according to the Sun-Times article. Read more Here |
 Image, WHO
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Studying ‘Forever’ Chemicals
The Water Research Foundation recently hosted a workshop for midwestern utilities and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago on the persistence of per- and polyfluorinated alkylated substances (PFAS) and wastewater treatment. PFAs are human made fluorinated compounds that have been in use commercially since the 1940s. Because they are designed to be stable, they are difficult to degrade and have been dubbed “forever chemicals.” The MWRD sent a diverse delegation of staff – including soil scientists, treatment plant operators and plant managers –to the PFAS Management for Wastewater Treatment Utilities, a two-day workshop held recently in Chicago. A statement on the MWRD website quotes its president Kari K. Steele, “Addressing PFAS in wastewater is paramount in our mission to protect public health and our water environment.” Read more: MWRD.org |
Connect with Us!
We are taking requests for any upcoming events to be added to future newsletters and our events calendar--You can also submit materials for the next newsletter by emailing [email protected]. Make sure you have accepted our newsletter email so it doesn't wind up in your junk folder!
FOLLOW US on our social media by clicking the icons below!
CREATE your own stories on Instagram and tag @NCH2Network so we can share how you engage with nature; we would love to see them!
EMAIL US and keep us updated on local events, exciting opportunities in the area, or send photos of local nature to be featured on the website.
CONTACT US at [email protected].
We are taking requests for any upcoming events to be added to future newsletters and our events calendar--You can also submit materials for the next newsletter by emailing [email protected]. Make sure you have accepted our newsletter email so it doesn't wind up in your junk folder!
FOLLOW US on our social media by clicking the icons below!
CREATE your own stories on Instagram and tag @NCH2Network so we can share how you engage with nature; we would love to see them!
EMAIL US and keep us updated on local events, exciting opportunities in the area, or send photos of local nature to be featured on the website.
CONTACT US at [email protected].