Issue link: http://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/326676
6 The Alabama Power Foundation's new "Students to Stewards" program is aimed at growing conservation education opportunities statewide. "This program is a natural extension of the Alabama Power Foundation's dedication to transforming and improving the quality of life for the communities and families we serve," said Matt Bowden, foundation board member and Alabama Power vice president of Environmental Affairs. The grants will provide support for dynamic stewardship, conservation education and outdoor classrooms to teach students about the importance of ecosystems. The program aims to transform prevention into better habits by growing an appreciation for the state's natural resources. "The Alabama Power Foundation helped fund initial development of our Alabama Outdoor Classroom Program almost 15 years ago, and this expansion of their support for outdoor, hands-on learning is tremendous," said Tim Gothard, executive director of the Alabama Wildlife Federation. "Students to Stewards will provide educators and organizations new and expanded opportunities to foster in our students a passion for wildlife and conservation." The program will invest more than $30,000 a year in conservation and stewardship education. Awards will be in two categories: curriculum and outdoor classrooms. "In the curriculum category, our goal is to distribute $15,000 in awards up to $1,000 each to develop classroom lesson plans, in-the-field learning opportunities and teacher training," said Peggy Burnett, program manager for the foundation. "We are also looking to partner on building three outdoor classrooms during the 2014-2015 school year, distributing up to $7,500 for each." The Alabama Power Foundation has opened applications for Students to Stewards grants, which will be accepted through June 30. Awards will be announced in September. For more information on Students to Stewards and other Alabama Power programs, visit www. alpowercharitablegiving.org. By Brandon Glover Students to Stewards EDUCATION Alabama Power Foundation investing more than $30,000 annually for conservation and stewardship grants. FOUNDATION PROGRAM AIDS CONSERVATION EDUCATION