Emily Terrell showed leadership and a commitment to the community by building a farm stand at the Boise Urban Garden School (BUGS) (Video)

18-year old Emily Terrell was honored by the city of Boise Public Works Department for her commitment to the environment and service to the community.

Terrell has received a $500 Public Works EnviroGuard Youth Mini-Grant. She also received a certificate of appreciation from Boise Mayor David Bieter Thursday at the Boise Urban Garden School (BUGS). Emily designed and applied for the funds to build a produce stand at the outdoor garden at 4821 W. Franklin in Boise. The new farm stand – complete with a roof, shutters and display bins – replaces an old table.

“Thanks to Emily's leadership, the BUGS kids learned about teamwork, sustainability, community service, and the gratification of setting and reaching a goal. The contributions of young environmental stewards like Emily are what will make Boise the most livable city in the country,” Boise Mayor David Bieter said. “We created the EnviroGuard Youth Mini-Grant program to showcase the contributions young people can make to improve our environment.”

Emily, a student leader at BUGS, supervised the building of the farm stand. She received help from 26 other students at the Boise Urban Garden School. BUGS offers fresh, healthy organic produce raised by kids ages 11-16. During the seven week summer course, children plant, harvest, market, and sell the produce.

“I believe an organic garden is an authentic learning environment to teach children about sustainability, ecology, nutrition and health,” BUGS executive director Becky Morgan said. “The kids are from all the over the city and also gain valuable friendships and learn about diversity.”

Applications are available for 2008 Youth Mini-Grants. For information on how to apply go to www.cityofboise.org/departments/public_works/EnvironmentalResourceCenter.

Here’s what students can do to get involved:

• Serve the community through volunteer work

• Enhance and protect the local environment

• Teach friends, neighbors and classmates about the importance of environmental protection, community   service and leadership

• Share your accomplishment with the public and encourage and inspire others to get involved

For more information, students can contact the project coordinators at solidwaste@cityofboise.org, or call Megan Kershner or Pamela Williams at (208) 384-3901.

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