Learning outdoors for children of the favelas

Mata Atlantica is one of the most biodiverse forests in the world.  Located along the cost of Brasil it is also one of the most endangered forests due to the strong urbanization, 70% of the people live in that area. Only 12% per cent of Mata Atlantica exists. Lovers of nature are responsible for the many campaigns and projects to rescue Mata Atlantica. One of the examples is Sinal do Vale, a 250 hectare farm located 50 km out of Rio. There volunteers from all over the world and  children from the local neighborhood join several initiatives connected to preserve the richness of Mata Atlantica through  medicinal plants and special trees that should not dye. At the World Environmental Day, a big action was done with the local school by engaging children.  The trees of Mata Atlantica have been painted in a Mural creating a new are of recreation at the school.

The initiative was put together by Sinal Volunteers directed by the painter Hernan Almiron and supported by the Canisius College students that spent a week at Sinal as part of a learning journey on Resilent Communities.

The experience was very positive and should motivate more gathering of this type to express the love and the commitment  for nature!