About Us
The Gulf of Mexico Alliance (GOMA) Environmental Education Network (EEN) formed the Underserved and Underrepresented Populations (UUP-see definitions below) Workgroup in 2006, as a result of the first Governor’s Action Plan for Healthy and Resilient Coasts. The first action plan states: “Develop and host a pilot program to engage underrepresented and underserved communities in Gulf stewardship activities related to the Alliance strategic priorities.” Volunteers from the Gulf region began collaborating through conference calls, meetings, and programs.
Interest and support for experiential environmental education working with underserved and underrepresented populations continued to grow. State and regional projects emphasizing program design, delivery and evaluation methods that address race, ethnicity, socio-economic status and culture continued as the EEN broadened. Through the EPA Gulf of Mexico Program and NOAA Coastal Services Center, funding was awarded to support regional projects. The UUP Workgroup meets monthly by conference call to share successes, challenges and discuss possible partnerships. Guest speakers often join the call to share advice and experience on reaching diverse audiences with environmental education. The newest Action Plan for 2009-2014 tasks the EEN with continuing to implement programs targeted to UUP.
Find out more about the Gulf of Mexico Alliance Environmental Education Network.
Definitions:
Underserved Populations: Any group or population (defined by race, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status, geographic setting, or culture) whose access to or participation in educational programs related to the coastal environment and natural resource management is limited.
Underrepresented Groups: The racial and ethnic groups that have traditionally and are currently underrepresented in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans)
