by Sarah Collins, OUREI Youth Ambassador

Last weekend, I was fortunate enough to participate in the Environmental Youth Conference at the LA Convention Center in Los Angeles. It is the biggest "green" conference in the world, and it was all for kids! I was so amazed at how many people cared about the planet, I truly had no idea. It made me feel great to be helping our planet. I talked to hundreds of kids who seemed to listen intently to what I had to say about the orangutans and rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra.

Many became interested enough to sign a paper I had at the booth I was running along with another OUREI member for more information and a petition I'd give to them through email. I also had the chance of hearing a fourteen year old boy, a kid less than a year older than me, speak about what was happening to our earth and what would happen if we continued our careless actions. I felt inspired by him and I'm sure many others did as well. I also heard several celebrities speak on behalf of our planet. It was amazing. In the end, I managed to get 180 signatures of kids and adults alike that cared. I hope some of them will be inspired enough to join OUREI and take action in their own communities.  I am delighted once again to be helping with these magnificent creatures.

- December 24, 2008