(Published Apr 17, 2015)

April 22 marks the anniversary of what many consider the birth of the modern environmental movement 45 years ago. On this day in 1970, Earth Day organizers capitalized on an emerging consciousness in this country to put environmental concerns front and center. At the JCC, after three very successful previous Earth Day celebrations, almost one year of planning and hard work by a core of staff, volunteers and community partners, and with the support of a handful of committed sponsors and donors, the JCC is proud to present our 4^th annual Earth Day Community Celebration on Sunday, April 26 from 1-4pm. We are celebrating on that day “tikkun olum,” which in Hebrew translates roughly to mean “repairing the world.”

At the JCC we are committed to a “learn by doing” philosophy and a belief that everyone has the responsibility to take care of the earth we all share today for the sake of our children and their children tomorrow. Too often in our busy, modern lives, we lack time to reflect. Earth Day was created just for that purpose. It is a moment to consider the broader implications of our lifestyle, to spend time with family, and to evaluate how we can be better stewards of the earth.

Did you know that Friday, April 24^th marks the anniversary the 143^rd Arbor Day? Like Arbor Day, the tree planting at our Earth Day Community Celebration reminds us that planting trees is one of the most cost-effective ways of offsetting carbon emissions. Trees also enrich and anchor soil, create biodiversity, assist in water runoff control and, just as importantly, beautify our urban areas and cities. We are so fortunate to have a partner like Keep Indianapolis Beautiful that reminds us every day of the importance of trees, especially in the middle of the city and right here in our neighborhood.

Our title sponsor Citizens Energy Group echoes those sentiments -“Citizens Energy Group is committed to the sustainability of the community through innovation, viability and education. What better way to reach our community than through programs such as the JCC’s Earth Day Celebration? Together, Citizens can help the JCC convey a vitally important message: we all need to be responsible stewards of the world in which we live. ”

We hope to see you and your family and friends at this important community event. For more information, visit www.JCCindy.org/community/earth-day/.