Philly gets grant to introduce youth to environmental stewardship

Philadelphia has been tapped as a priority city in an effort to move youth outdoors. 

The city will receive a grant to hire coordinators for projects putting youth to work on projects such as building a butterfly garden at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge near Philadelphia International Airport and environmental initiatives at other sites in the area.

It’s part of first lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move Outside” push.  

The initiative gives those in urban areas a chance to be stewards of the outdoors, said Deputy Secretary of the Interior Michael Connor.

“What we’re seeing is, when you create these opportunities for youth at all levels, they are enthusiastic about it,” Connor said.

Philadelphia is the most recent addition to a coalition of 26 cities involved in the project. Others will be identified and announced next year.