Hudson County Improvement Authority Announces Launch of Sustainability Ambassadors Program

HCIA Partners with Hudson County 4-H to Engage High School Students in Environmental Sustainability Volunteer Work and Education

JERSEY CITY, NJ – The Hudson County Improvement Authority (HCIA) is announcing the commencement of their Sustainability Ambassadors Program this spring. The program is designed to teach high school students about environmental sustainability through education and volunteer work, and help them engage productively to make a difference in their communities. Applications are open until February 23rd.

This program, spearheaded by the HCIA in partnership with Hudson County 4-H, provides an opportunity for high school students to understand the intersections of sustainability by exploring the sustainable development goals, sustainable food systems, consumption and waste, climate action, and more. Sustainability Ambassadors will graduate the program having identified ways they will make an impact in their communities.

“We created this program alongside Hudson County 4-H to educate youth about global and local environmental and social challenges,” said Amanda Nesheiwat, HCIA Deputy Director of Sustainability and Community Outreach. “We want to encourage them to understand that individual actions can make a difference and that leading by example can help create a more sustainable world.”

After school throughout the spring, participants will attend virtual and in-person lessons, site visits, and field trips to gain a deep understanding of the intersections of sustainability in everyday life, in their communities and globally. During the summer, participants will complete 10 volunteer hours at a community garden or community compost site. To culminate the program, they will complete a final project and present their sustainability action plans. Upon completion of the program requirements, students will earn their Rutgers and HCIA Sustainability Ambassador certificate.

The HCIA will hold a virtual information session on February 2nd, and accepted students will attend an orientation to kick off the program on March 14th.