Can you tell us a little about your background prior to volunteering for HEART?
Since graduating college, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work for several environmental nonprofit organizations across the country. Prior to moving to Chicago, I worked as an environmental educator in NYC where I taught elementary students about the built and urban environment. Since moving to Chicago, I’ve worked on water quality and natural resource issues at the Environmental Law & Policy Center. Currently, I work with CNT Energy on various energy efficiency programs. In my free time, I volunteer with PAWS Chicago and spend lots of time exploring Chicago with my two rescue dogs Henry and Pique.
What drew you to want to volunteer for HEART?
I volunteer with HEART because I’m a firm believer that one of the best ways to make a community a better place to live is to empower younger generations to make a difference. HEART Chicago provides students and teachers with invaluable resources and tools to make Chicago a more responsible and compassionate community. I continue to be blown away by the service and volunteer projects that HEART students create and lead for the Chicago Community.
What projects have you worked on as a HEART volunteer?
From administering classroom surveys to helping plan an event, I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to wear many hats as a volunteer with HEART Chicago. I’ve most enjoyed working with and learning from HEART’s many students. Their passion and insight about the environment, animal welfare and human rights is infectious— it encourages me to get out into my community and volunteer!
You’ve recently agreed to head up the Young Professionals Board for HEART and become a member of the Advisory Board. Can you tell us some of your plans for the Young Professionals Board?
I am very excited to get started with HEART’s Young Professional Board this summer! I hope that HEART’s Young Professional Board can help raise awareness and resources for HEART’s programs by hosting several special events throughout the year. The board will be a fun way for members to gain a deeper knowledge of humane education, network with other young professionals and develop leadership skills. If you or someone you know is interested in joining the board, please contact me at caroline.pakenham@gmail.com.