Article submitted by Jennifer Navala, Intergenerational Coordinator, County of San Diego, Health & Human Services Agency

In celebration of Earth Day, a special intergenerational event was hosted by the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency for a fifth grade class at Innovations Academy Charter School, along with their grandparents and parents. The goal of this event was to help students learn about the harmful effects on the environment caused by preventable behaviors, and empower them to make a difference in preserving the Earth.

The 2018 Earth Day event kicked off with an interactive presentation about the history of the day, detailing the importance of environmental awareness and sustainable living, and included topics like minimizing food waste and learning how to compost. Students and adults were encouraged to explore and discuss things they could do at home to decrease their environmental impact. Attendees participated in activities dedicated to Earth Day including making new paper out of used paper, DIY coasters made from old magazine pages, a “compost vs. recycling vs. trash” relay race, and an outdoor scavenger hunt.   

The event not only increased environmental awareness, but also helped build connections between adults and students in a shared mission to preserve the Earth. Intergenerational efforts are a focus of the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, where activities and events inclusive of all ages provide more opportunities to learn and grow together as a community.