Newsletter from Tuesday, May 30th, 2023
Dear NCH2 Community,
As we close out Mental Health Awareness Month, thank you all for spreading the word about how time in nature can be restorative and rejuvenating for mental wellbeing. We hope that this awareness campaign, which promotes many ways to care for mental health, continues to gain traction and guide us to tap into the resources we need to thrive.
NCH2 frequently discusses the evidence we have that underscores how nature can literally be medicine for human health and wellbeing. (Check out the "Data We Can Use" section of our website at nch2.org) Today we publish a new blog that reflects on what we know and what we do not know about the effectiveness of nature prescriptions in improving mental and physical health. Drs. Terry Horton and Courtney Schultz discuss the importance of data as they describe the results of a new review article that explores the weight of evidence for nature prescriptions. Find their blog here.
Last week the Trust for Public Land released a report “The Power of Parks to Promote Health” that details ways and guides leaders how to maximize the health effects of parks. With their ParkScore index, which is a ranking of public park systems in the top 100 most populous cities, the Trust finds in this study that cities with the highest ParkScore have residents with healthier outcomes. Check out the details in the report! General guidance for decision makers underscores the importance of:
As we close out Mental Health Awareness Month, thank you all for spreading the word about how time in nature can be restorative and rejuvenating for mental wellbeing. We hope that this awareness campaign, which promotes many ways to care for mental health, continues to gain traction and guide us to tap into the resources we need to thrive.
NCH2 frequently discusses the evidence we have that underscores how nature can literally be medicine for human health and wellbeing. (Check out the "Data We Can Use" section of our website at nch2.org) Today we publish a new blog that reflects on what we know and what we do not know about the effectiveness of nature prescriptions in improving mental and physical health. Drs. Terry Horton and Courtney Schultz discuss the importance of data as they describe the results of a new review article that explores the weight of evidence for nature prescriptions. Find their blog here.
Last week the Trust for Public Land released a report “The Power of Parks to Promote Health” that details ways and guides leaders how to maximize the health effects of parks. With their ParkScore index, which is a ranking of public park systems in the top 100 most populous cities, the Trust finds in this study that cities with the highest ParkScore have residents with healthier outcomes. Check out the details in the report! General guidance for decision makers underscores the importance of:
- ensuring everybody has access to parks and natural areas and that they feel welcome;
- designing and make parks as "health-promoting" as possible; and
- partnering with the health care sector, that increasingly is seeing the value of time outside, in parks, for their patients.
Index
Community spotlight
Upcoming Events
Future Events: Save the Date
Job Opportunities
In the News
Connect with Us
Community spotlight
Upcoming Events
Future Events: Save the Date
Job Opportunities
In the News
Connect with Us
Community Spotlights: E(ART)H Chicago and Brushwood Health, Equity, and Nature Accelerator
In Chicago: We are very excited to help spread the word about the Illinois Science and Energy Innovation Foundation initiated E(art)H Chicago (Earth Art Chicago), a public art showcase that features 12 artworks and a series of events between June 3-17. Per their press release, the project has "a mission to engage and inspire people across the city while centering the voices of those often underrepresented in climate conversations." Local artists from from all regions of the city were selected for this exciting project and will include live dance performances, sculptures, interactive theater for toddlers & their caregivers, murals, documentary film screenings, & more! More information here.
In Lake County: Launched over a year ago, the Lake County Brushwood Center Health, Equity, and Nature Accelerator will soon release its first report in mid-June. Funded by the Walder Family Foundation, the Accelerator has delved into data-driven information as well as storytelling and other qualitative ways to understand the community's experience and perspective. Reflecting this work, Brushwood will open a new art exhibit Visible, on June 11th, which is focused on "the systemic inequities that impact peoples’ access to a healthy environment. Often described as “invisible barriers,” this work visualizes the data of respondent experiences through interviews, maps, and artist perspectives." To see more details about this family-centered event and to get more details about the release of the report click Here.
In Lake County: Launched over a year ago, the Lake County Brushwood Center Health, Equity, and Nature Accelerator will soon release its first report in mid-June. Funded by the Walder Family Foundation, the Accelerator has delved into data-driven information as well as storytelling and other qualitative ways to understand the community's experience and perspective. Reflecting this work, Brushwood will open a new art exhibit Visible, on June 11th, which is focused on "the systemic inequities that impact peoples’ access to a healthy environment. Often described as “invisible barriers,” this work visualizes the data of respondent experiences through interviews, maps, and artist perspectives." To see more details about this family-centered event and to get more details about the release of the report click Here.
Upcoming Events
Of the Earth exhibit, Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum has a new art installation Of the Earth, featuring five large-scale sculptures fashioned from reclaimed tree branches and other natural materials by Cleveland-based artist Olga Ziemska More information here.
When: Now through 2025.
Where: Independence Grove North Bay Parking Lot
Environmental Justice Awareness Day in Evanston
Join the Evanston community in this afternoon of a broad range of activities for all ages. All are Welcome! The Evanston Environmental Justice Coalition developed this day to:
--Learn how redlining, race, and income are some of the root causes of the lack of green space and the high level of tree inequity in the 5th Ward;
--Discuss the ongoing issues of environmental injustice and the roles Black & brown communities have played historically in advocating for themselves against environmental pollutants.
When: June 3rd, 1-4:00 p.m.
Where: Fleetwood-Jourdain, 1655 Foster St.
Join the Evanston community in this afternoon of a broad range of activities for all ages. All are Welcome! The Evanston Environmental Justice Coalition developed this day to:
--Learn how redlining, race, and income are some of the root causes of the lack of green space and the high level of tree inequity in the 5th Ward;
--Discuss the ongoing issues of environmental injustice and the roles Black & brown communities have played historically in advocating for themselves against environmental pollutants.
When: June 3rd, 1-4:00 p.m.
Where: Fleetwood-Jourdain, 1655 Foster St.
Photo, Laura Derks
Little Calumet River Day
Experience the beauty of the Little Calumet River with Friends of the Chicago River, Openlands and many others for a day of cleaning up the river and/or learning to canoe/kayak, followed by lunch provided at Kickapoo Woods.
Free event but registration is first come first served for those who are not bringing their own boats. Bring your own boat or kayak! If you can't, Friends will follow up with an email letting you know if your registration is confirmed or if you are on the waiting list.
When: June 4th 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Register Here.
Experience the beauty of the Little Calumet River with Friends of the Chicago River, Openlands and many others for a day of cleaning up the river and/or learning to canoe/kayak, followed by lunch provided at Kickapoo Woods.
Free event but registration is first come first served for those who are not bringing their own boats. Bring your own boat or kayak! If you can't, Friends will follow up with an email letting you know if your registration is confirmed or if you are on the waiting list.
When: June 4th 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Register Here.
Maple Lake at Night, Tom Hahn; Photo courtesy of the Forest Preserves of Cook County
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Free Camping Under the Canopy at Camp Sullivan with Cook County Master Naturalists
All are welcome, come for the afternoon and evening only or stay overnight for a Night sky watch, fun activities, and an early morning bird watch for those that have had their first cup of coffee. For more information and registration, look here. When: June 10th 3:30-June 11th. Where: Camp Sullivan |
Photo, Laura Derks
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Backyard Herp (That's frogs, snakes, turtles) Walk
Discover the local amphibians and reptiles that live in DuPage and the behaviors and adaptations that make them so unique. Ages 8 and up; under 18 with an adult. $5 per person. Register online or at 630-942-6200. When: June 10, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Where: Fullersburg Woods |
Future Events: Save the Date
Photo, Illinois Department of Natural Resources
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Illinois Free Fishing Days: Father’s Day Weekend
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources sponsors one weekend each summer to sample fishing without requiring a fishing license, and here’s the bonus — it’s Father’s Day weekend! In Will County, Dad gets a container of bait on the house and a small gift. House fishing poles are free to rent. Regular fishing rules and regulations apply. Free. All ages. Contact 708 534-8499 Location: Monee Reservoir Visitor Center |
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Greentown Climate and Equity Conference
This daylong event in West Cook County will bring together public and private sectors from across the region to make a more vibrant community. This Greentown Climate and Equity conference will address how climate solutions and equity go hand in hand to create a healthy and sustainable West Suburban Cook County for all. Greentown Climate is offering an Emerging Leaders Plenary Session that aims to bring together young leaders to discuss, connect, and act. If you are interested in finding out more about the young leaders session, click here. For general details and to register, go here. When: June 22, 8:30 a.m. -- 4:00 p.m. Location: Triton College See map here |
Image, GreenTown
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Job Opportunities
New Listings
Experimental Station has two new positions Deputy Director of Finance / Human Resources and Senior Program Manager - Link Up Illinois. For more information, go Here.
Forest Preserves of Cook County is searching for a new Grant Assistant. Must apply electronically Here. Any questions should be directed to HR here: [email protected]
Several other job opportunities are listed on this page including Budget Analyst and Accessibility Coordinator.
The FPCC is also seeking Spanish speaking volunteers for several events and roles to make their events available to more people. For more information, click 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.
Other Listings
Elevate is looking to fill many positions. Look through their career opportunities here.
Lake County Forest Preserves is looking for applicants for its Youth Conservation Corp positions. Learn more here.
Equiticity has two positions open. 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. Learn more here.
Imani Green Health Advocates Is looking for applicants for its Paid Trainee and Mentor positions. Learn more here.
STRONG Manoomin Collective is looking for two postdoctoral scholars in Indigenous Environmental Governance. Each postdoc is for 2-year terms (with possibility of renewal) beginning in Fall 2023 to be based at Northwestern University located in Evanston. Details of the positions are available here. Or if you have questions, contact Kelly Wisecup at [email protected].
Openlands is looking to fill four positions, including Chief Executive Officer! Learn more here.
Seven Generations Ahead is looking to fill several positions including an intern. Learn more here.
Star Farm is looking to fill several positions. Learn more here.
Please send us your job openings to be featured!
Experimental Station has two new positions Deputy Director of Finance / Human Resources and Senior Program Manager - Link Up Illinois. For more information, go Here.
Forest Preserves of Cook County is searching for a new Grant Assistant. Must apply electronically Here. Any questions should be directed to HR here: [email protected]
Several other job opportunities are listed on this page including Budget Analyst and Accessibility Coordinator.
The FPCC is also seeking Spanish speaking volunteers for several events and roles to make their events available to more people. For more information, click 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.
Other Listings
Elevate is looking to fill many positions. Look through their career opportunities here.
Lake County Forest Preserves is looking for applicants for its Youth Conservation Corp positions. Learn more here.
Equiticity has two positions open. 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. Learn more here.
Imani Green Health Advocates Is looking for applicants for its Paid Trainee and Mentor positions. Learn more here.
STRONG Manoomin Collective is looking for two postdoctoral scholars in Indigenous Environmental Governance. Each postdoc is for 2-year terms (with possibility of renewal) beginning in Fall 2023 to be based at Northwestern University located in Evanston. Details of the positions are available here. Or if you have questions, contact Kelly Wisecup at [email protected].
Openlands is looking to fill four positions, including Chief Executive Officer! Learn more here.
Seven Generations Ahead is looking to fill several positions including an intern. Learn more here.
Star Farm is looking to fill several positions. Learn more here.
Please send us your job openings to be featured!
In the News
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Mission Blue Names the Great Lakes as a ‘Hope Spot’
The five Great Lakes in the heart of North America hold about 90% of the fresh water in the United States and 21% of the world’s surface fresh-water supply, according to the conversation organization Mission Blue. Although Hope Spots have traditionally been associated with oceans – according to Mission Blue, they are places critical to the health of the ocean – because of their vital role, Mission Blue recently bestowed that name on the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes represent both the figurative and the literal heart of the North American water system,” said Dr. Sylvia Earle, founder of Mission Blue. “A source of water for over 40 million people and more than 3,500 plant and animal species, many of which are unique to the Great Lakes, the inclusion of this critically important natural area as a Hope Spot will highlight the connection and significance of protecting inland habitats, as we really understand that the whole aquatic world; inland waters and the ocean beyond are one interconnected system.” More information can be found at missionblue.org. |
Photo, Mission Blue
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Photo Laura Derks
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Try a Hike – It’s Worth the Trip!
Many of those who started hiking during the pandemic have “stayed for the workout and for the refuge hiking offers from their screen-addled daily lives,” according to a May 24th article in the “Well” section of the New York Times. Hiking burns more calories than does simple walking – especially with the added weight of a backpack. And spending time in nature can help lower stress and anxiety. Read more, including how to train, find trails and dress appropriately Here |
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BP Subsidiary to Control Contaminants in Whiting, IN
A settlement that includes the largest penalty yet under the federal Clean Air Act for pollution from a structure– $40 million – will force BP Products North America Inc. to “install technology to control releases of benzene and other contaminants at its Whiting [Indiana] oil refinery, according to a recent story at nwitimes.com. The company will also invest nearly $200 million in improvements in its plant, which sits on the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Read more about this settlement, which still requires court approval and comes at a time when the U.S. Supreme Court is limiting the power of the Environmental Protection Agency. Read more Here |
Photo, Laura Derks
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With increasing demand for Delivering Packages, Coincides with Emitting Toxic Fumes
Though an item seems a harmless click away on a computer, a closer look shows the delivery process can be toxic. In a May 21 story in the Chicago Sun-Times, Al Lewis wrote, “The advent of fast, doorstep deliveries brings nitrous oxide and other pollutants closer to more people’s homes than ever.”
Residents in neighborhoods near many of the 2,400 warehouses in Illinois are exposed to pollution from the delivery. A recent study by the Environmental Defense Fund, Mr. Lewis wrote, “found that about 15 million people live within a half mile of a warehouse in 10 states it examined, including more than one million children under 5 years old.” In Illinois, a hub of freight-handling, the study showed nearly two million people, including 138,000 children under 5, live within a half mile of a warehouse.
The increased delivery demand only intensified the pollution problem created by discrimination, redlining and other means of marginalizing poor and minority communities. Though the problem is worsening, there is hope for some mitigation. Read more about it here.
Though an item seems a harmless click away on a computer, a closer look shows the delivery process can be toxic. In a May 21 story in the Chicago Sun-Times, Al Lewis wrote, “The advent of fast, doorstep deliveries brings nitrous oxide and other pollutants closer to more people’s homes than ever.”
Residents in neighborhoods near many of the 2,400 warehouses in Illinois are exposed to pollution from the delivery. A recent study by the Environmental Defense Fund, Mr. Lewis wrote, “found that about 15 million people live within a half mile of a warehouse in 10 states it examined, including more than one million children under 5 years old.” In Illinois, a hub of freight-handling, the study showed nearly two million people, including 138,000 children under 5, live within a half mile of a warehouse.
The increased delivery demand only intensified the pollution problem created by discrimination, redlining and other means of marginalizing poor and minority communities. Though the problem is worsening, there is hope for some mitigation. Read more about it here.
Connect with Us!
We are taking requests for any upcoming events to be added to future newsletters and our events calendar which can be done here. You can also submit materials for the next newsletter by emailing [email protected].
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 which can be done here. You can also submit materials for the next newsletter by emailing [email protected].
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].