Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University will partner with Mantua Civic Association to create the Mantua Youth Ambassador program, a community engagement program that seeks to connect youth ages 8-16 in place-based arts and civic engagement activities through environmental stewardship of community green space. Project funds will support a community horticulture educator and a university student intern in the development, implementation, and oversight of the program, as well as stipends for the Philadelphia youth ambassador participants. Through their participation in a curriculum of educational opportunities integrating arts, STEM, community engagement, and environmental justice, the youth ambassadors will develop leadership skills and a deepened sense of civic engagement. This initiative will address an urban community’s need for youth civic and environmental responsibility, as well as serve as a model for future engagement of informal STEM learners and youth community leaders within Philadelphia.