Our Roots:

The Growth of Earth Matters

Earth Matters , a program of Nelson CARES Society , began in the spring of 1995 when two local youth were inspired to create a summer pilot project for high school students called "HANDS-ON". Building on the success of "HANDS ON", Earth Matters evolved into a youth-driven program focusing on involving young people in giving back to their community by working on environmental and social justice projects.

Over the years, Earth Matters continued to deliver innovative "youth driven" programs and services to the community.  See Youth Initiatives for details on the many projects that have taken place.

Nurturing the Social Enterprise Seed: Recycling Service & ECO Store

In 2002 Nelson CARES Society's Career Development Services Program (now Supported Employment Program) saw a wonderful work opportunity for people with disabilities in a weekly recycling pick-up service from local downtown businesses. This very successful business became the seed from which other social enterprises have grown within the program including the delivery of a local weekly newspaper delivery service, janitorial services, and a postering service.  Ultimately their success led to an ongoing collaboration with the Earth Matters Program in the creation of the Earth Matters ECO Store in December 2009.

Pollination: Funding Support

Funding for our many Earth Matters projects and initiatives over the years has come from a wide range of supporters including Columbia Basin Trust, Vancouver Foundation, Eco Action, Shell Canada, BC Hydro, Esso, Osprey Foundation, Community Living BC, to name but a few.  We are so grateful for their confidence and support of these vital community programs allowing us to promote environmental responsibility and stewardship of our beloved community, region, country, and planet.

Harvesting and Reseeding: Where to from here

With many successes behind us and wonderful support from our community for our work, the Earth Matters Program plans to continue to engage youth and other partners in creating even more innovative and educational projects that inspire positive environmental change in our community. Our goal is also to operate economically sustainable social enterprises that not only employ youth and people experiencing barriers to employment, but that can financially support many new youth initiatives for years to come.

How can you participate?

If you are a youth or a person experiencing barriers to employment, there are volunteer and paid work opportunities with Earth Matters. If you are passionate about the environment and want an avenue to express your ideas, we welcome your participation.  If you would like to financially support our future endeavours, we welcome your donations, all of which are tax receiptable. Go to Nelson CARES Society website for more information on making a donation.