RiversEdge West Awarded $10,000 from Alpine Bank to for Youth and Community River Program
[Grand Junction, CO – July 23, 2025] – RiversEdge West (REW) is excited to announce a $10,000 grant from Alpine Bank to support two key outreach and education programs: the Wellspring Project and Lunch and Learn events. This funding will help strengthen REW’s mission to promote healthy riverside (riparian) ecosystems and engage the Grand Valley community in stewardship and restoration efforts.
The grant will support various programs and initiatives aimed at community engagement and environmental education:
Empowering Youth Through Art and Education
The Wellspring Project is a free, four-day summer program for middle school students that blends science, environmental education, and art. Through hands-on field experiences, conversations with experts, and creative expression, students explore the complexity of the Colorado River and their personal connections to it. Learn more about Wellspring here: https://riversedgewest.org/education-stewardship/wellspring-project
Bringing Riparian Restoration to the Lunch Table
REW will also host two Lunch and Learn events each year, which are open to the public and free to attend. These educational sessions dive into topics like invasive plant species, riparian health, and the restoration work happening in our own backyard.
“The Wellspring Project allows us to increase accessibility and awareness of our rivers for middle schoolers in the Grand Valley,” says Nicole Cook of RiversEdge West. “By getting kids out into the field and encouraging artistic reflection, we’re hoping to inspire the next generation of river stewards.”
Building a Stronger Future for Our Rivers
At the heart of REW’s mission is a belief that lasting restoration depends on informed, engaged communities. Whether it’s through youth programming or adult education, REW works to connect people with the rivers that sustain our region.
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