vision

The Virginia Environmental Network (VEN) views environmental literacy as a life-long learning journey cultivated through formal and non-formal educational experiences that spark inspiration, enhance critical thinking, improve physical and mental health, and empower learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to fuel a greener economy and shape a more resilient & equitable region. We envision healthy, engaged, and prepared youth nurturing our lands and waters and tackling the environmental and socio-economic challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

PURPOSE

The purpose of our state network is to strengthen relationships and collaboration across state-wide formal and non-formal networks of educators and stakeholders (including educators, community organizations, universities, businesses, and beyond) to cultivate the conditions for equitable environmental literacy efforts to grow and thrive. Our Network North Star purpose is to ensure every person in Virginia has access to high-quality environmental education, including but not limited to outdoor education experiences and opportunities to take action through the school curriculum and within local communities.

LONG TERM IMPACTS​

Collaboration & Networking
  • Improve and enhance state-level communication channels to support and advance environmental literacy programming at the school district and community levels.
  • Use the network to support MWEE communities of practice, training, and program implementation.
  • Continue network weaving and resource mapping to identify gaps in the field and clarify each organization’s role within the larger ecosystem.
  • Provide networking opportunities and resources to refine, scale, and expand environmental literacy projects, programs, and initiatives across communities.
​Capacity Building
  • Establish a strong foundation by working alongside communities to engage in Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEEs).
  • Increase capacity in environmental literacy by fostering collaboration and pursuing state, federal, and philanthropic funding opportunities that may be difficult for some organizations to access independently.
Policy & Strategy
  • Support environmental literacy through youth-led advocacy and collective impact.
  • Create and implement strategies for effectively advocating for environmental literacy.
  • Leverage social capital to shape a statewide philanthropic agenda in support of environmental literacy, bridging gaps between state mandates and philanthropic support for school districts.
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