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Projects on display at the CARE event in 2022 (file photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)
By Liam Verster
Climate Action Ripple Effect

CARE program re-branded to boost project impacts, reach

Dec 4, 2025 | 4:17 PM

The Climate Action Ripple Effect (CARE) program has re-branded and is looking for new mentors.

The program, run by School District 22, is marking its fifth anniversary with new branding, an updated website, and strategies to boost student and community climate education, engagement and impacts.

CARE sees Vernon and area students come up with projects that could address climate change concerns.

Since it’s launch, a total of 827 students in grades six through 12 worked together on 272 projects, which were supported by 100 community mentors who helped get their projects off the ground.

An email from the CARE program organizer said the projects support the City of Vernon’s Climate Action Plan and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It added how an evaluation following this year’s program found the students enjoyed and valued their mentorship relationships, which helped them in learning and building their skills, interest, confidence and agency.

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“You don’t need to be an expert to CARE about kids and climate,” mentor recruiter, Kasey Van Sickle, said.

“Yes, we engage climate professionals, but students also want to learn from mentors who share their individual passions like climate activists, artists, eco-entrepreneurs, carpenters, and gardeners, to name just a few.

“We know everyone’s busy, so we customize mentoring or advising to suit each volunteer’s availability and schedule.”

People wishing to share their experience, passion and knowledge with the students as a mentor can contact the CARE program at kasey@freshoutlookfoundation.org.

by Liam Verster
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