ORCHARD PARK – Western New York’s not-for-profit environmental education organization, is presenting its third annual Tortoise & the Hare 5K Race and Fun Run in Chestnut Ridge Park this Saturday and there is still time to sign up to run or walk.
The event supports Earth Spirit Educational Services, Inc. a 501(3)(c) that provides diverse environmental education programs to schools, community groups, and the general public.
For over 35 years the Naturalists/Ecologists from Earth Spirit has sought to share their lifelong passion for nature with others, and their programs have served as a mechanism for reaching out to schools, community groups and the general public instilling in others a sense of connection to the gifts and lessons of nature.
“We have guided others gently and directly through Nature’s classroom so that they may know how their lives and well-being are interwoven with and inseparable from the natural world,” said Scott Lembitz, co-director of Earth Spirit.
They visit schools and parks and take students on ecology excursions. Woven together with the detailed science-based curriculums from the schools, Earth Spirit ensures there is a direct learning relationship with Nature, outside of the school classroom.
Recently, 4th graders from Houghton Academy participated in a field trip with Earth Spirit. The 34 students from Buffalo’s Kaisertown neighborhood were transported into nature and learned all about maple sugaring.
“This sense of sharing and guidance has always been our mission and those who have joined our Family through the decades, and those who follow us, will continue this good work to educate and awaken others to the ways and wonders of Nature,” added Mr. Lembitz.
Earth Spirit also has programming available to the public throughout the year, and the organization often stops by Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and Stiglmeier Park.
Their programs are primarily supported by donations from the public and through their annual 5k Race which is being held on Saturday, April 21st.
Cheektowaga Chronicle is proud to join West Herr Subaru as a presenting sponsor for this event. If you’re interested in running or walking – signup at the Its Your Race Buffalo website.