Bob Simcock
Former Mayor of Hamilton
If we want to achieve significant and lasting social change we are always best to start by working with the young. There is no doubt that through its active learning approach Enviroschools is changing the environmental understanding and the values of New Zealand communities. But it is doing much more than that. Every time I visit an Enviroschool I am struck by the special sense of energy and community pride that is evident within the school. Children have not just ‘learned’ about making a difference but have experienced making a difference. I am very proud to know that the Enviroschools movement has grown out of a local Hamilton City Council supported initiative.
Our programmes are supported by a network of agencies that contribute local funding, skilled people, ideas and networking opportunities. This partnership approach enables the programmes to have strength, reach and creativity.
Our regional partners invest directly in their region, the funds generally do not come through The Enviroschools Foundation. We estimate the value of regional support to be in excess of $2 million per annum.
