INDIO, CA, October 18, 2015 — The S.C.R.A.P. Gallery - The Art Museum for the Environment, which serves art students in Coachella Valley and Riverside County, was recently recognized by the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), a leader in environmental education, as the recipient of one of NAAEE’s hallmark annual awards recognizing leadership in the field. At a special awards reception during NAAEE’s 44th Annual Conference in San Diego, S.C.R.A.P. Gallery received the award for Outstanding Service to EE by an Organization (Local Level).

The S.C.R.A.P. Gallery’s mission (www.scrapgallery.org) bases its youth-oriented, hands-on educational programs on the Four R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Responsibility. The conservation and reuse of discarded materials is emphasized in arts and science workshops that help students comprehend complex environmental issues. Local businesses and manufacturers donate materials for use by teachers, artists, and community programs.

“For more than four decades, NAAEE has promoted excellence and impact in environmental education thanks to the tireless efforts of our members, supporters, and affiliate organizations,” said Judy Braus, Executive Director. “Our award winners represent bright spots across North America that show progress in our field across multiple disciplines and approaches, from teaching and community engagement to research and environmental justice.”   

This year, 11 award recipients — an impressive slate of individuals and organizations from North America —were selected across 11 categories. For more information about the 2015 NAAEE Awards including eligibility requirements and a full list of winners, visit www.naaee.org/our-work/programs/awards.