It has been a summer of growth here at The Blueprint Foundation. 

Read more below about our program updates:

🌊 Grounding Waters Program  🌱

Wrapping Up Summer with Growth, Connection, and Belonging 🌞🌱

We concluded our summer programming this month, and staying true to our mission, we focused on more than just activities; we created spaces where our Black-identified youth could thrive and feel a deep sense of belonging. After a memorable visit to Timothy Lake on August 10th, the Blueprint team gathered at Luuwit View Park for a day centered on community bonding and cultural connection. While our work often involves environmental education, this day was about celebrating our identities and strengthening our bonds as a team and as a family. 🌿👨‍👩‍👧‍👧

We explored the park, played basketball, and relaxed under the young trees, all while fostering an environment where our youth could see themselves reflected in their peers and mentors. Watching them engage in friendly competition and meaningful conversations highlighted the importance of culturally specific programming in building a strong, supportive community. 🫶🏾

Community Connection is Key 🌿🌻

Our Grounding Waters program is rooted in the power of community connection, especially within culturally specific contexts. Whether we’re harvesting blueberries with Mudbone Grown, tagging trees with Friends of Trees, or playing basketball, these activities are more than just fun—they are crucial in creating spaces where our youth are uplifted and well supported. As we wrap up the summer, these experiences have not only set them up for success but have also reinforced their sense of belonging and pride in their cultural identity.

Tree Pruning Crew Leader Training 🌳✂️

A significant part of our summer programming was the tree pruning crew leader training with Friends of Trees. Over seven weeks, Blueprint students and Tappin Roots interns gained hands-on experience in tree biology, best pruning practices, and the care of street trees in North Portland. This training was not just about nurturing our urban forest—it was also about empowering our Black-identified youth to take on leadership roles in their communities, fostering both skill development and cultural pride.

Paddle Adventure with LCEP 🛶

On August 13th, our summer activities continued with a paddle adventure where students learned the skills needed to be a paddle guide, including water safety and canoeing. LCEP provided insights into the health and history of the superfund site, creating an educational experience that also honored the cultural significance of water and land stewardship. This, like so many other activities this summer, combined education with cultural connection, helping our youth build confidence and a strong sense of identity.

Advocating for Equity in Tree Care 🌍

As we reflect on our summer programming, we are reminded of the importance of advocating for equity in tree care. The tree care industry has long been dominated by white individuals, with efforts concentrated in predominantly white neighborhoods. By empowering our youth and focusing on underrepresented areas, we are working to shift this narrative. Through culturally responsive programming, we’ve ensured that our youth are not only equipped with the knowledge and skills for the future but also with a strong sense of cultural belonging.

Welcome, Mason and Joshua! 👋

As we transition into the next season, we’re thrilled to introduce Mason and Joshua, our new Grounding Waters Program Assistants. They join us at a pivotal moment, as we build on the successes of the summer. Scroll down to learn more about them and how they’ll contribute to our goal in empowering youth one seed, one tree, one stream at a time. 

🌬  Change is in the Air 💭

Celebrating Success and Progress in the Change is in the Air Program (CAP)! 🌬️

This summer marked an exciting chapter for Blueprint Foundation’s Change is in the Air Program (CAP), where we welcomed 16 new Community Scientists I (CS Is) and celebrated the advancement of 4 members from a previous cohort to Community Scientists II (CS IIs)! Over the course of the 7-week camp, 14 CS Is and all 4 CS IIs remained dedicated to making a meaningful impact in their communities, showcasing the resilience and commitment of our youth.

Empowering Black Youth Through Hands-On Learning and Land Connection ✊🏾

Our program is rooted in culturally responsive programming that fosters well informed BIPOC communities and empowerment for Black-identified youth. This summer, in partnership with Tetra Tech and NOSO Environmental, our brilliant group of young scientists received training in microelectronics and computer programming, equipping them with the skills to build air quality monitors and conduct research. These hands-on experiences not only provided valuable technical knowledge but also strengthened their connection to the health of the planet as they learned to collect data and advocate for environmental justice in their communities.

One of the program’s highlights was a field training at Vance Park in Gresham, OR, where our youth witnessed a monitor installation firsthand. They engaged in discussions about the optimal placement of monitors for accurate data collection and explored land use dynamics with CAP partner Gregg Hayward, the City of Gresham's Business Sustainability Outreach Coordinator. This experience was more than just technical—it was about understanding the broader context of environmental stewardship and how their work contributes to the health and well-being of their communities.

Learning the Political Process and Advocacy Skills 🗳️

In addition to their technical training, our youth participated in a four-day camp with Neighbors for Clean Air, where they delved into the political process and policy advocacy. This experience was crucial in helping them understand how to use their voices to effect change, reinforcing their roles as empowered advocates for environmental justice. These activities, centered around culturally responsive programming, ensured that our youth not only gained knowledge but also felt a strong sense of belonging and purpose in their work.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey 🌍

As we look to the future, our Community Scientist I participants will have the opportunity to apply to become Community Scientist II participants, continuing their vital contributions to air quality research in Multnomah County during the 2024–25 academic year. We are incredibly proud of our students and the outstanding work they are doing for their community. Their dedication and the skills they’ve developed this summer have set them up for continued success and leadership in environmental advocacy.

A Bright Future for CAP 🌟

The Change is in the Air Program is not just about environmental science—it’s about fostering a sense of belonging, empowerment, and cultural pride in our Black-identified youth. We’re excited to see how these young leaders will continue to grow and make a difference in their communities, and we look forward to supporting them every step of the way.

🌿Connecting Canopies🌿

August was an incredible month for our Connecting Canopies Cohort 3, where we took our learning to the next level and deepened our connection to the environment. Working with Learning Gardens Lab, Kindness Farms, Meadow Sweet, and Portland Parks and Recreation, our interns engaged in hands-on activities that reinforced their knowledge and built a stronger sense of belonging within to place, each other and the planet.

Expanding Knowledge in Regenerative Agriculture and More 🌱

Throughout the month, we revisited some of the key topics introduced earlier in the summer, diving deeper into regenerative agriculture, dry farming, and the critical role of beneficial insects and other predators. By focusing on how to attract these vital creatures, our interns gained a greater appreciation for the delicate balance within ecosystems, learning how to nurture and protect it.

New Learning and Activities with Portland Parks and Recreation 🌳

Our collaboration with Portland Parks and Recreation offered a unique opportunity to join their tree survey team. Here, our interns learned tree identification and measuring techniques, performed health assessments, and collected vital data. This hands-on experience not only expanded their technical skills but also connected them to the broader environmental stewardship efforts within the city, helping them see the direct impact of their work on the community.

Exploring Edible Plant Families and Permaculture Principles at Kindness Farms 🌾

At Kindness Farms, our interns immersed themselves in the study of edible plant families, honing their ability to identify plants through their genera. They also delved into the world of pollinators, learning about the importance of both native and cultivated species. Seasonal harvest and maintenance practices were another focus, where interns explored sustainable methods for keeping crops healthy throughout the year.

Applying permaculture principles on a working farm allowed our interns to see these theories in action. This experience was particularly powerful, as it linked their learning to tangible outcomes, fostering a deeper sense of responsibility and belonging within the agricultural community.

Creative Projects and Personal Growth 🎨

One of the highlights of August was a permaculture design project where interns created their own designs. This project allowed them to apply what they had learned in a creative and practical way, blending their newfound knowledge with personal expression. The enthusiasm and pride our interns showed in their designs were truly inspiring, and many expressed how much they enjoyed this hands-on approach to learning.

Building Community and Belonging 🌍

Through these activities, our interns not only gained valuable knowledge but also strengthened their sense of belonging within the Connecting Canopies community. By engaging in culturally specific programming, they were able to see their identities reflected in the work they did and the communities they served. This month was about more than just learning—it was about connecting with the land, each other, and the rich cultural heritage that informs our approach to environmental stewardship.

Welcome, Essence! 👋

As we continue to grow, we’re excited to introduce Essence, our newest Program Assistant for the Connecting Canopies team. Essence joins us at a pivotal time as we continue to build on the successes of our Connecting Canopies adult workforce program. Scroll down to learn more about Essence and how she will contribute to Connecting Canopies' impact on our young green workforce. 

Meet our new team members!

Mason Martinez (they/them) is a published Latinx writer born and raised in New York City. They received their BA in Creative Writing and Literature from SUNY Purchase. They are deeply passionate about highlighting their youth and culture through storytelling, weaving in the environment, and how it has shaped them and their communities. After spending a year traveling the United States, Mason found a home in Portland and strives to give back to the community that has welcomed them so kindly. In their off-time, Mason enjoys visiting National Parks (with the ambitious goal of hitting them all), hiking, volunteering, creating art, and spending time with the people they love.

My name is Josh (he/him), I also go by Jay. Either works for me and my journey with Blueprint began when I was 15 and I have been involved ever since. It is amazing to see and acknowledge the growth of this organization and it feels like both a full circle and an honor to get the opportunity to pay it forward to the next generation. When I am not with Blueprint, I enjoy spending my time at the gym playing basketball, taking long walks or going on a nice hike, or playing the bass. Looking forward to my personal development with Blueprint as well as witnessing the upward trajectory of an organization 

Essence Satterfield (she/her they/them) is a horticulturalist, permaculture enthusiast, community organizer, and social justice advocate. With a background in Agriculture from Mendocino College, she combines her love for plants with a commitment to creating a more equitable world. She brings a unique blend of strategic planning, emergent strategy assessment, and relationship-building skills, and a relational worldview complimented by a profound love for nature.

Her personal connection to the forest runs deep, and since childhood has oriented her place in the world and guides her study of systems. 

She is mother, dancer, actress and artist, she draws inspiration from her vibrant community, and finds peace and solace in Yoga, Gardening, urban foraging, and swimming.

Introducing our newest program, Sowing seeds!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of "Sowing Seeds," a monthly student-mentor luncheon program designed specifically for Black-identified youth in Portland Public Schools (PPS). Held on the third Friday of each month, this initiative connects students with Black STEM/STEAM and Green Sector industry professionals 'Ambassadors', offering a unique opportunity to explore careers in various trade and environmental fields.

Through these luncheons, our partner mentors provide guidance, representation, and inspiration, helping to create meaningful growth pathways for high school students as they prepare to enter the workforce. Sowing Seeds is more than just a career exploration program—it's a space where students can see themselves reflected in the professionals who lead the way, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment in their educational and career journeys.

We are looking for Ambassadors to join us in this journey, see more info below!

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Since Summer has wrapped up it is now recruitment time for Grounding Waters mentors AND Sowing Seeds Ambassadors!

See below for more information:

Becoming a mentor is an incredible way to connect with youth, learn new skills and experience the outdoors in fun and exciting ways. We are looking for mentors willing to commit to Saturday outings and nurture young minds! This is a paid opportunity to find out more hit the button below!

Upcoming partner events and volunteer opportunities:

Have you ever wondered where the Slough’s turtles go in the winter?

Did you know our native turtles breathe through their butts? 

Answers to these questions and more can be found out at this month’s Slough Science with Laura Guderyahn, Urban Ecologist at Portland Parks & Recreation. This free event is open to all ages, advance registration is necessary.

Event Details:

• Tuesday, September 17, 2024
• 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
• Whitaker Ponds, 7040 NE 47th Ave, Portland 97218

Slough Science: Turtles of Whitaker Ponds — Columbia Slough Watershed Council

The World Salmon Council is one of our great partners, volunteer to help advance their mission!

Salmon Watch is designed to instill a deeper understanding and appreciation of the value of native wild salmon, watershed conservation, and environmental stewardship. Salmon Watch field trips bring 4th-12th grade students to local rivers where Salmon can be seen spawning. 

More information here: New Volunteer Registration | World Salmon Council 

contact us:

communications@theblueprintfoundation.org  Tax ID: 47-2091648

(503)389-0877 PO BOX: 83099 Portland, OR 97283

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