June Update

The Environmental Committee is looking for a new member!
As AZ4 prepares to close out their service, the Environmental Committee is looking to fill their place with a new member from AZ5. Our mission is to “Raise PCV and staff awareness of environmental issues in order to encourage a positive change in environment of Azerbaijan.” If you are interested in applying, check your email for the application questions, or check out our blog at envcommaz.blogspot.com. The new member will join Kat Zigmont (AZ5 CED, Goychay) and Jeff Bailey (AZ5, TEFL, Ujar) in our attempt to strengthen the growing committee. The Environmental Committee was founded by Ina Arnaoudova (AZ4, TEFL, Barda) to try to do something about the environmental problems facing Azerbaijan. She was joined by Sarah Choy (AZ4, CED, Barda), Jenny Groza (AZ4, TEFL, Tovuz), and Mike Lee (AZ4, CED, Mingechevir), all of whom worked hard to create resources for volunteers to use when working on environmental issues. If you are interested in working with the committee, have any other questions about what we do, or have an issue you would like us to discuss, email us at envcommaz@googlegroups.com

If you are in AZ5 and interested in applying please submit to us answers to the following questions by July 7th:

1. Why do you want to be on the Environmental Committee?
2. What environmental problems are realistic for volunteers to tackle?
3. How do you think the environmental committee can assist PCVs in HCN education and mobilization?
4. What background do you have which will assist your role as an environmental committee member?
5. What project ideas have you had or implemented within your community or organization?

Earth Day 2008: Theory and Practice
Volunteers throughout Azerbaijan participated in the Earth Day Program this year, establishing a wonderful tradition of creating environmental awareness and promoting volunteerism. Not sure if your community will be receptive to environmental activities? Think again. Armed with resources provided by the Environmental Committee as well their own determination and perseverance, PC volunteers in all corners of Azerbaijan participated in the Earth Day Program 2008. The Program involved environmental based lesson plans as well as various activities with their local community members.

Check out THIS lesson plan to use in your classroom/club at anytime.