According to Talia McAllister, CEO of the Econautics Sustainability Institute (Econautics):
“Do you remember the last time you went outside and walked barefoot through a patch of grass? Or took a swim in a crystal clear river or lake to cool off on a hot summer day? Have you ever tasted fresh fruit straight from the tree?
“These fun moments become cherished memories, but children today are having fewer opportunities to have these experiences as they spend more time indoors due to issues like climate change and pollution. Sadly, this also means that health problems like asthma, diabetes and obesity are on the rise.”
“These same issues are disrupting global food supply chains, and reduced food supplies are sending prices at grocery stores soaring. For families who are already living paycheck to paycheck, increased expenses may mean going without food, medicine and other basic needs.
“Econautics is here to change that, and we need your help!
“Our mission: to create a living laboratory to explore, research and teach sustainable agriculture, planting the seeds of healthier, more resilient communities.”
“Our focus: Addressing environmental, health and economic disparities in under-resourced areas through Living Laboratory partnerships with trusted community organizations.”
“Our vision: For every child to have access to diverse, nutritious food and the knowledge to care for the planet.”
“This year for the first time, we’re participating in the Texas Community Foundation’s North Texas Giving Day because we need your help to grow food, grow hearts and grow community. We’re raising funds to secure land for our first Living Laboratory, which will be comprised of an urban farm, education corridor and community center. This isn’t just about growing crops, this is about growing healthier, more connected communities.”
“Growing Food: Our urban farm provides fresh, nutritious produce to address food insecurity and promote healthy eating. It provides hands-on learning opportunities and teaches sustainable agricultural practices. “Nurturing Minds: The Education Corridor is a pathway through the farm where visitors can walk, run or bike, stopping along the way to learn at outdoor classrooms and informational displays. Econautics will provide workshops and programs in environmental science, nutrition and health to inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious people. “Nurturing Community: The Community Center will be a hub for connection and collaboration, fostering a sense of belonging through events, recreational activities, volunteer opportunities and shared meals. An on-site restaurant will provide a social gathering place and, along with a planned community market, will generate new income opportunities for residents.
“Support us on North Texas Giving Day and help us move forward toward securing the land and facilities we need to launch our first programs and realize our vision. Together, we can create a space where children can enjoy nature, families can have access to healthy food, and our community can thrive.”
“Grow food, grow hearts, grow communities. Every contribution gets us closer to our goal. Thank you for joining us on this journey with Econautics.”
*Photo by David McAllister **Graphics/photos by Econautics
Texas Community Foundation’s North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $566 million into North Texas communities in 15 years. In 2023, more than $63.9 million was raised through 97,000 donors to benefit 3,249 local nonprofits.
Click here to spread the word and support Econautics on Thursday, September 19th. #NorthTexasGivingDay2024
