Connection is where change begins. It’s the friendships that keep us grounded, the communities that lift us up, and the movements that remind us we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. Alone, the path forward can feel uncertain — but together we can educate, organize, and mobilize, uniting individual action into collective strength to build the future we know is possible!
Connection lives in conversation and collaboration — in the moments that invite understanding, the small acts of kindness that open doors, and the shared stories that remind us we’re not alone. It grows when neighbors, classmates, and allies gather around shared purpose, and expands as those efforts ripple outward to influence culture, policies, and systems.
Each of us is surrounded by overlapping circles of connection — the people we trust, the communities we belong to, and the larger movements that shape our world. This idea is reflected in Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model, which illustrates how personal, community, and global systems are linked, shaping human development and change.
None of these circles exist in isolation; they constantly influence one another. A single act of courage or compassion in one circle can create ripples that reach them all. Transformation takes root when these layers work together — when trust becomes action, and shared action builds momentum for a more just and sustainable world.
Across the planet, young people are showing how powerful these connections can be. In Bangladesh, youth-led relief after devastating floods grew from compassion at the personal level into coordinated community response and calls for systemic change. Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund helps city leaders and young people collaborate on tangible local solutions — from expanding tree canopies to advancing environmental education. Global networks like Climate Mayors and C40 Cities connect these local initiatives into international momentum, proving that what starts as one person’s effort can become a global force for climate action.
From grassroots initiatives to global campaigns, connection multiplies impact. Acure links sustainable personal care with environmental action, showing how everyday choices can align with planetary well-being. Friends of the Earth organizes alongside frontline communities, connecting global advocacy with local struggles for justice and biodiversity. Both demonstrate that connection is more than a value, it is a pathway to lasting change.
Connection gives us courage when challenges feel overwhelming, imagination when new possibilities are needed, and strength when the path forward seems uncertain. When we choose to show up for one another — in our relationships, our communities, and our world — we build the foundation for a future defined by care, cooperation, and shared purpose.
PARTNERS
RESOURCES
CHALLENGE
Connection is the foundation of change. When you map the circles of your life — from the people closest to you, to the communities you belong to, to the movements shaping our world — you begin to see how relationships inspire ideas, propel action, and create new possibilities.
Project Green Challenge isn’t just an individual journey — it’s a global community powered by connection. Every message shared, story told, and friendship formed strengthens this circle of changemakers. When you connect with other students, you share inspiration, support one another, and build momentum for a healthier, more just planet.
Big change starts small. Short, focused meet-ups can generate ideas, clarify roles, and get your first actions rolling.
Each Greener Winner will receive:
Each Greenest Winner will receive:
