The Aug. 27 event at Silver Spring Neighborhood Center provided backpacks and school supplies to approximately 60 students while introducing children and families to environmental stewardship through hands-on learning, including a rain barrel demonstration. The activity is part of SSNC’s Earth Ambassador initiative, a K3–12 environmental education curriculum designed to build environmental awareness from an early age while creating opportunities for students to explore conservation, sustainability, and related career pathways.

“This is what meaningful community partnership looks like,” said Rep. Taylor. “Silver Spring Neighborhood Center understands that supporting a child means supporting the whole family and the community around them. Veolia and MMSD deserve recognition for bringing their resources, expertise, and commitment directly into the neighborhood and helping young people see themselves as part of the future of environmental stewardship.”

Rep. Taylor highlighted the initiative as an example of how community organizations, public institutions, and private-sector partners can work together to create lasting, positive changes for Milwaukee families and neighborhoods.

“When a young person receives the supplies, they need to walk into school prepared and confident; that matters,” Taylor said. “But when we can also expose that same young person to water conservation, sustainability, environmental careers, and the responsibility we all share for our neighborhoods, we are planting seeds that can grow far beyond one event.”

“This event at Silver Spring Neighborhood Center on Aug. 27 reflects what’s possible when community partners come together for local families,” said Devin Hudson, Executive Director. “We’re grateful for Veolia’s support in helping students start the school year prepared and confident while creating opportunities for meaningful learning beyond the classroom.”

“At Veolia, we believe lasting impact begins with investing in people and the communities we serve,” said Ashanti Hamilton, Workforce Development Manager for Veolia. “By supporting students with the tools they need for a successful school year and creating opportunities to learn about environmental stewardship, we’re helping build a stronger future for Milwaukee. We’re proud to partner with Silver Spring Neighborhood Center and MMSD to make a difference both in and outside the classroom.”

“Water connects every part of our community, and helping young people understand that connection is an essential step in fostering pride and responsibility for building a sustainable future,” said Kevin Patterson, Public Engagement Specialist with MMSD. “Working alongside Silver Spring Neighborhood Center and Veolia allows us to make water conservation practical and meaningful, empowering students to protect their environment and neighborhoods.”

Rep. Taylor said initiatives such as this demonstrate the importance of connecting education, environmental responsibility, workforce exposure, and neighborhood investment.

“Our children deserve more than programs. They deserve pathways, experiences, relationships, and opportunities that help them imagine what their future can become,” Taylor said. “I am proud to see organizations working together to make that vision tangible for families in our community.”