Both Sides Now: I’m an ECHOage Mom and President of an ECHOage Charity
ECHOage Enthusiast: Tovah Barocas
President: Earth Rangers
I am an ECHOage mom (my 5 year old raised over $300 and got a trampoline through her party last October!), and I run a charity called Earth Rangers that partners with ECHOage! Let me tell you what it’s like...
Earth Rangers is all about leveraging kids’ love of animals and giving them the tools to take positive environmental action. One of the most amazing things about my job is hearing kids self-identify as Earth Rangers. They really feel like they’re a part of something bigger and seeing those hand written letters signed off by “Ranger Ella” or “Ranger Mohammed” always fills me with so much joy and satisfaction.
I also love being listed as an ECHOage Charity, and our program with ECHOage connects kids to the cause in a meaningful way, by offering kids who fundraise for Earth Rangers the opportunity to select a specific animal project to support through our Wildlife Adoptions Program. After their party, we send them a free adoption kit for that animal, featuring a plush toy, poster and certificate. And the best part? Funds raised not only support Earth Rangers education programs for kids, but they also support a young researcher working in the field to protect the animal your child chose. Kids really get it. They get it that their birthday party has now become something more meaningful and that they’re affecting change.
Parents really know how to make a birthday party rock. Here’s some examples: they create a jungle atmosphere at the birthday party with greenery, flowers or other natural decorations, or some host the birthday outside. Some parents encourage guests to dress up for the birthday as their favourite animal, have animal themed face painting or have kids create their own ears or masks to wear at the party. Another great idea is to serve animal themed snacks or cupcakes. Any party in support of Earth Rangers is a celebration! Our youngest members of society and making sure that our planet and our animals will survive, and thrive!