I was amazed when I heard the coordinator say… “And before the children's picnic, we’ll have the lawn sprayed to keep the fire ants away.”
I couldn’t believe my ears. Not only was the lawn going to be sprayed with pesticides, but they were going to send children to romp around in the chemical soup. My mind rushed with thoughts about how many other organizations might be doing the same thing. Could it be possible that we are still so behind the times that some of the most basic health and environmental knowledge out there today; available in almost every place we turn now, is still not being used by the very places we would expect the most observance?
There was no time to lose … as a start, I connected with someone on the staff to offer information about professional companies that provide organically-based lawn care service. They were very happy to learn about the alternatives and eager to explore a greener method of working with the community’s lawn, especially where the children were concerned.
There are different levels of outreach anyone can offer to their community. I realize that not everyone has the time to lead, or even participate in, a green committee with every organization in which they are involved. However, if one is aware of something that could be a healthier, or a greener alternative, sharing the information could make a greater difference than one might think.
For example, connecting with someone in charge and saying “Have you considered recycled paper products for the restrooms, I’ve heard Seventh Generation has discounts for large quantity orders, here’s there website …” or “I’ve heard that you’re serving unfiltered tap water from pitchers in the children’s Sunday school rooms, would you like to know about the pitchers that have built in water filters? It would be a much healthier way to go.”
As enough people take notice and offer their support by sharing information, or even by volunteering, the change we most want to see will accelerate, and before long, become the new norm. The resources for taking the green road are growing and improving every day, and thankfully bringing more eco-friendly ideas and resources to the forefront, while infusing greater enthusiasm for the journey. ~ In-Joy, Claire Papin
