Audubon Great Lakes
(office in Chicago, IL; working in Gary, IN)
Mission: To conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth’s biological diversity.
Program Progress: Step 2 & 4 – Assess Community Needs & Identify Partners
In 2024, Audubon Great Lakes evaluated the capacity-building needs of community members in Gary, Indiana, through their regular engagement activities in the Little Calumet River watershed. Through nature walks, birding, and storytelling circles they’ve been building an understanding of the multi-generational political and environmental challenges facing Gary residents. River Network has been assisting in analyzing that information to develop a responsive youth-focused leadership program that will launch in 2025. Through partnerships with organizations like Calumet Collaborative, Brown Faces Green Spaces and The Urban League of Northwest Indiana, Audubon Great Lakes has learned a great deal about what’s already available to Gary residents and is planning to build on existing recreational and educational opportunities for youth in Gary. Working with youth from 12-18 years old, learning modules in the program will address nature-based solutions and climate change, but the skill-building components will focus on writing, public speaking, mentorship, advocacy, and community building.
