Click to watch the Fresh Life video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0kZ7j76-uk

In 2011, EJAM collaborated with Patrick Henry High School students to create a DVD called Fresh Life - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle to educate community members through popular education.  Fresh Life explores the impact of waste on low-income communities and communities of color, expresses traditional values of caring for the land, and promotes solutions. 

Strengthening relationships between community youth and elders was a core part of the project.  Students learned from elders, teachers, and other students through hands-on activities, including recorded interviews. 

The Fresh Life video includes a rap song written by students about why it is important to recycle and step-by-step demonstrations on making compost and safe cleaning products. 

Through the Fresh Life project, 300 community members learned new ways to reduce waste and exposure to toxic chemicals.  The DVD will soon be delivered to North Minneapolis middle and high schools. 

Funding for this project is provided by the Hennepin County Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board through Community POWER: Partners on Waste Education and Reduction. Please visit www.rethinkrecycling.com for more information.