The environmental justice work of today cannot continue tomorrow without the leadership of our youth.  Together Renewing Our Urban People's Environment (TROUPE) is a youth leadership project that engages 7^th - 10^th graders in the Northside neighborhood as the next generation of environmental advocates. 

Through TROUPE, students collaborate with Elders and environmental professionals to:

1.      Discover the cultural significance of land and water;

2.      Learn about the local environment and how it affects our health and wellness;

3.      Identify two environmental problems in the neighborhood and find solutions;

4.      Create art that reflects the culture and science they learn;

5.      Have fun!

Environmental Justice Advocates of Minnesota (EJAM) received a grant from the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization to begin the planning phase of this project.  Youth, Elders, and professionals will take the lead in planning and coordinating this project through the summer of 2010.