RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Lincoln Park Zoo's Hurvis Center for Learning creates memorable experiences that connect people to animals and nature and inspire and empower them to act as stewards of local environments and the global community. Programs for children, teens, adults and families provide learners of all ages an opportunity to enrich their experiences with nature, both at the zoo and throughout the city; and
WHEREAS, In the fall of 2015, The Hurvis Center began the Conservation Ambassadors Board (CAB), an opportunity for Chicago teens to develop leadership skills, and to learn about zoo careers throughout the school year; and
WHEREAS, This nine-month program is in its second year and is made up of 17 teens representing 13 different Chicago high schools. Their goal is to design and lead two events under the guidance of zoo staff and science professionals to raise awareness of certain conservation issues; and
WHEREAS, This year CAB partnered with Polar Bears International's "Project Polar Bear" program to help educate the public on climate change and the loss of sea ice; and
WHEREAS, CAB was selected as the winners of Polar Bears International's "Project Polar Bear" contest - a five-month-long competition that challenges teams of young people to design and carry out long-lasting community projects that reduce C02; and
WHEREAS, the teens completed the report about an event they created called "Polar Paws", attended by more than 600 guests who participated in various activities to show the impact of daily actions on polar bears and sea ice. The event showcased 30 local artists who depicted their feelings about climate change and its effect on polar bears through myriad mediums, including painting and photography; and.
WHEREAS, the selection committee cited their leadership to create a completely teen-led event and their flexibility to adapt the event to changing circumstances; and
WHEREAS, CAB students from Walter Payton College Prep, Northside College Prep, D...
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