All about the GFWC Conservation Community Service Program

The GFWC Conservation Community Service Program is designed  for members to gain an appreciation for our environment. Members  are encouraged to increase awareness of conservation issues, work  to preserve, maintain and restore our natural resources, preserve habitats for plants and animals, and participate in endeavors to beautify and sustain the world around us. Our natural resources include, but are not limited to, water, trees, plants, air, land, and wildlife.

IDEAS

•  Educate young people about the importance of protecting our natural resources.
• Invite local experts and members of community organizations to speak at club meetings about  conservation and beautification practices.
• Write op-ed pieces, letters to the editor, and press releases about important conservation issues  in your community and submit them to your local media.
• Plant native species for beautification and restoration of land and waterways.
• Clean up along roadways, waterways, and trails.
• Implement beautification projects at parks, hospitals, shelters, cemeteries, & other community  gathering places.
• Clean up trash after youth and adult sport and community events.
• Encourage preservation of historic properties.
• Visit a state or national park.
• Tour a botanical garden.
• Honor individuals and businesses for their gardens and civic pride with a “Garden of the Month” project.
• Plant and care for trees and donate funds for reforestation plans.
• Create community gardens to promote self-sufficiency.
• Advocate and investigate local food and where it comes from.
• Preserve natural habitats to protect wildlife.
• Provide local shelters and sanctuaries with needed items for animal rehabilitation and care.
• Support curbside recycling programs, utilize drop-off and buy-back recycling centers, or organize  a recycling program if none exist.
• Work with local officials and organizations to facilitate proper disposal of unused medicine and needles.
• Participate and/or volunteer at a local household hazardous waste collection day event.
• Visit a landfill and discover the waste disposal practices which are in place to protect the land, air, and water.
• Implement energy conservation practices in your clubhouse, home, office, & public buildings.
• Investigate renewable energy projects and sources in your area.
• Participate in an awareness day such as Arbor Day, America Recycles Day, Earth