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Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice

Youth on Patrol Against Pollution

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Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice actively engages youths to explore relevant social and environmental issues that impact their lives now and in the future. DWEJ's Youth on Patrol Against Pollution (YOPAP) program provides firsthand opportunities for young people to take an active role in their communities while building lasting leadership and academic skills.

The program focuses on three key elements: 

• Developing young leaders in environmental justice
• Building awareness and understanding of the natural environment
• Encouraging careers in the environmental sciences

With guidance from experienced professionals, students photodocument environmental issues in their neighborhoods and develop a vision for change. They then create a photovoice presentation to educate civic and government leaders and community members on the environmental concerns faced by their communities.

Participants in the YOPAP program also volunteer at the Belle Isle Nature Center during the summer to work on wildlife conservance
and learn about ecology. Through their work at the Nature Center, students develop skills in data collection, scientific research and
problem solving. During the final weeks of the summer program, students explore local university programs in the environmental sciences, which can lead to fulfilling and prosperous careers in the emerging green economy.

Youth on Patrol Against Pollution chapters are established through local churches, elementary and secondary schools, neighborhood
block clubs and civic organizations. By developing these chapters, Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice builds a secure foundation for the successful transition of leadership to the next generation.

Example Projects:

One recently concluded YOPAP project focused on researching ways to control phragmites, an invasive plant species that inhibits the growth of native plants on Belle Isle. While conducting the research, students learned how disturbances in the ecosystem impact wildlife and what can be done to mitigate the negative effects. After four weeks of research and data collection, students presented their findings and recommendations to the Nature Center in a formal proposal.

Another element of YOPAP is Community Hazard Awareness Training Seminars (CHATS). Students research major brownfield sites and polluting facilities to conduct "Toxic Tours", which teach people about environmental health hazards in the community. During the tour, students also highlight the positive strides that can be made when residents, businesses and decision makers work together to bring about change.