Empowering the Next Generation at the 2025 Youth Environmental Summit

On November 16, 2025, the Rotary Club of Southern Frederick County proudly hosted the much-anticipated 2025 Youth Environmental Summit at Bar-T Mountainside in Frederick, Maryland. This incredible event brought together more than 50 middle and high school students from across the state, all eager to engage in a day dedicated to environmental education, community building, and youth-led climate action.

The Summit Experience

The summit served not only as an educational platform but also as a space where young minds could unite to learn about pressing environmental issues and innovative solutions. Through various hands-on workshops, attendees had the opportunity to dive deep into practical learning experiences such as food recovery and composting, sustainable architecture, and lithium-ion battery recovery, to name just a few. Furthermore, the students were encouraged to brainstorm and create actionable ideas that could be brought back to their communities.

Guest Speakers

The event featured impactful presentations by three distinguished guest speakers. Paul Varga, Communication Manager for the Frederick County's Division of Solid Waste and Recycling, shared invaluable insights on waste management and recycling initiatives. Peter Forbes, President of Trees for the Planet, inspired students with his talk on global reforestation efforts. Lastly, Anthony Frank, a naturalist and Chief Operating Officer of Eco Educational Design, captivated attendees with his discussion on eco-friendly design practices. These speakers helped broaden the students' understanding of environmental stewardship and the critical role they play in shaping community engagement.

Rotary Club's Commitment to Youth Leadership

Gerald Miller, the President of the Rotary Club, emphasized the club's commitment to nurturing youth leadership and environmental stewardship, aligning with Rotary International's global priorities. "Supporting youth environmental leadership is directly tied to Rotary International's global priority of protecting our planet," Miller stated. He expressed the significance of empowering the youth with tools and knowledge to take meaningful action. Through their sponsorship, the Rotary Club was pivotal in providing the necessary administrative, promotional, and logistical support for the event.

Joe Richardson, past president of the Rotary Club and owner of Mountainside Education Enrichment, echoed these sentiments. His gratitude towards the Rotary Club for sponsoring the summit highlighted the importance of collaboration among community organizations in fostering environmental awareness among young individuals.

Looking Ahead

The summit proved to be more than just a one-day event; it represented an ongoing commitment to youth engagement in environmental action. With the Rotary Club of Southern Frederick County's support, the impact of the event is expected to resonate throughout the community, creating pathways for students to acquire practical skills and even consider potential career pathways in environmental fields.

The success of the 2025 Youth Environmental Summit illustrates the power of community collaboration and youth engagement. It inspires enthusiasm among young individuals as they confront environmental challenges creatively and optimistically. The Rotary Club looks forward to maintaining its partnership with Mountainside Education Enrichment, continuing to cultivate the next generation of environmental leaders.

About the Organizations

Mountainside Education Enrichment is a nonprofit organization founded in 2008 with a mission to broaden access to environmental education and expand community engagement opportunities. The Rotary Club of Southern Frederick County is dedicated to advancing its motto, 'Service Above Self,' by supporting local initiatives that enhance youth leadership and promote sustainability.

For more information on upcoming Rotary-supported programs and events, please reach out to the Rotary Club of Southern Frederick County.