Cincinnati Nature Center knows it’s not enough to tell young people the importance of conservation – we must get them involved in leading real change.

For the past several months, a group of dedicated, eco-conscious teens has been hard at work developing the Nature Center’s 3rd Annual Youth Conservation Summit, and building their own leadership skills along the way.

From putting together the agenda, booking the speakers, and even helping with marketing, the teens have worked hard to create an event that will inspire their peers to take action to protect the planet.

“I attended both of the youth summits in the past, but this was the first year I’ve been on the planning committee,” said Margaret Sprigg-Dudley, a senior at Cincinnati Country Day School. “I’m on the marketing committee where I’ve gotten to learn about marketing, plan social media posts, and think about how we support those interested. It’s going to be a great summit, and I’m excited to provide support to teens passionate about conservation!”

For those interested in attending, the summit is 10 am-3 pm Saturday, Oct. 2, online via Zoom. While created by and for youth ages 13-18, it is open to anyone interested. And the best part, it’s free! There will be keynote speakers, student presentations, and guest appearances by The Bug Chicks.

To learn more about the summit, register to attend, or apply to be a student speaker, visit www.NextInNature.org.

“It’s not easy to make the world a better place, and conservation problems are complex,” said Connie O’Connor, the Nature Center’s director of education. “That’s why it’s so important to bring youth together where they can support and learn from one another. It’s so inspirational to see youth investing in their futures by caring for the earth.”

Cincinnati Nature Center thanks the Charles H. Dater Foundation and the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation for their generous support of this year’s summit.

About Cincinnati Nature Center

Cincinnati Nature Center is a nonprofit nature education organization. For more than 50 years, we have provided visitors with enriching experiences in nature. Our award-winning trails offer something for people of all ages during all seasons. The ever-changing beauty of nature attracts more than 200,000 guests each year. We provide the community with a unique and valuable education resource for innovative, nature-based learning opportunities. To discover more, visit www.CincyNature.org.