Maryland residents who are passionate about their local rivers and streams and the Chesapeake Bay can now make a difference in their communities through the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF)’s Volunteers as Chesapeake Stewards (VoiCeS) program. Registration is open for upcoming April and May classes in the communities of Cambridge and Prince George’s County.
VoiCeS engages local volunteers who want to play a more active role in their communities and Bay restoration, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities the Bay faces. Sessions are professionally led by CBF staff and include topics such as pollution, fisheries, oyster restoration, regenerative agriculture, and more. Graduating participants are recognized as CBF Certified Bay Stewards and invited to join CBF’s team of Clean Water Captains.
“CBF’s VoiCeS seminar provided me so much more than I ever expected,” said G. Rick Wilson, VoiCeS graduate from Laurel, Maryland. “My experience included more compelling stories about why we must protect our Bay; more guidance to show me how to become an effective advocate; more connections into the myriad of organizations dedicated to protecting the Bay; and finally, more friendships with like-minded colleagues who care. VoiCeS was an easy investment of my time that has returned so much more.”
VoiCeS programs include a series of online, collaborative sessions, as well as optional in-person field trips. Participants get hands-on educational experience that enhances their personal volunteer and advocacy journeys. Since the program was created in 2004, over 900 people across the Chesapeake Bay watershed have participated.
“The goal of VoiCeS is to give passionate Bay advocates new tools and experiences that can be applied in their own communities,” said Julieta Rodrigo, CBF’s Urban and Community Resilience Manager. “This year marks the program’s 20th anniversary. We’re thrilled to celebrate that milestone with the residents of Cambridge and Prince George’s County.”
Classes start in mid-April and run through mid-May. The six-week program, including four online Thursday evening sessions and optional field trips, is $25. Registration for the Prince George’s County program closes on April 10. Registration for the Cambridge program closes on April 11. All Maryland residents are welcome to register, though session topics have been tailored to these two geographies. Learn more and register here.
