Too often, people think that sharing information with others is enough to influence behavior. But knowledge and awareness seldom lead directly to action. Information is most valuable when delivered at the right time, by the right person, addressing the right needs.

“No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.”

- Theodore Roosevelt

When nature enthusiasts show that they care through conversation and genuine interest in someone else’s values, priorities, needs, motivations, and barriers, trust grows. As people seek common ground and work together across different backgrounds, identities, and perspectives, they can better address complex environmental problems.

To protect nature, we must connect with one another.

When people make sustainable consumer and lifestyle choices, widen and influence their social circles to do the same, support organizations engaged in collective action, and help with community projects and plans, they may create ripples of demand for products, policies, companies, and leaders that prioritize a healthy environment.  

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.”  

- Margaret Mead

The Nature Center offers programs and services that train, connect, and support people in their efforts to have greater impact on conservation:

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‍Getting Things Done: Civic Engagement for Conservation

‍You might hope that local decision makers consider the environment when making plans. But is hoping enough? Nature enthusiasts can help influence whether a community has bike trails, green space, native landscaping, effective recycling, green energy, and more.

With just a little effort and engagement, you can bring nature to the forefront of civic conversations. To do so, you’ll need to know how local governments work, where to find information, and where to find opportunities for networking and respectful civic engagement. If you’ve forgotten what you learned in civics class, or never had one, this unique and empowering course will bring you up to speed.

‍Click here to register for this upcoming program!

Click here to read "Showing Up" in Newsleaf Fall 2024

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The Ripple Effect Course

‍A blended learning experience introducing a simple approach to addressing environmental issues through the lens of human behavior and emphasizing the power of relationships.

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Member Action Forum‍

A place on our website where members can share ideas, seek input, form an interest group, or invite others to join them in taking action for conservation.

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Connect to Protect: A Salon for Civic-Minded Nature Enthusiasts

Salons were social and intellectual gatherings once popular in Europe. The focus was on connecting to discuss and learn from each other. Often, ideas discussed at salons led to improvements in society.

Cincinnati Nature Center offers salons to organizations, communities, and civic-minded established groups who want their constituents to connect with each other for a better environment and society.

During the salon there is a 20-minute presentation followed by a 90-minute facilitated discussion in small groups. Guests will be invited to consider and discuss how finding common ground and valuing relationships can protect the environment, enhance well-being, and help communities to thrive. As guests connect with one another, they may decide to collaborate on an issue or to plan to keep the conversation going in the future. Salons can help jump-start civic engagement for a better environment and community. If you are responsible for arranging guest speakers for your special interest club, this is a unique opportunity to consider.

This program is available for groups of 12–250 people at your venue for a flat fee of $500 plus mileage (if over 30 miles), or at our venue with an additional facility rental fee. Your presenter, Connie O’Connor, Director of Applied Learning at Cincinnati Nature Center, has been helping people understand, celebrate and protect nature for over 30 years. To book this experience, contact Amy Johnson at ajohnson@cincynature.org.

‍The Ripple newsletter is a monthly electronic compilation of thought-provoking articles, podcasts, websites, videos, and invitations to inspire action and advocacy.

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