These animals are waiting for homes at Cobb County Animal Services.
This dog’s name is Franklin. He is still at the shelter from when I wrote about him two months ago. He is a 3-year-old, medium-sized brown and white Feist. He is really energetic, in a good way, and would be a good running companion with some leash training. He also would be a good family dog who would love his family.
This cat’s name is Ari. She is 2 years old. She is an orange and white medium-sized cat who was a stray, because people would not want to give this cat up. She is very affectionate and would be a great pet for everyone.
This month, I interviewed Kiana Leveritte, the community engagement coordinator for Georgia Audubon, about the Urban Ecologists program.
Can you tell us about Atlanta Urban Ecologists (AUE)?
AUE was created for eighth- to 12th-grade students to expose them to environmental concepts that affect the world, and to inspire them to become ecologists. We partner with groups around Atlanta and have a monthly outing. We try to make every meetup different. They are three-hour sessions that incorporate things like visiting the zoo or planting trees.
What is your favorite thing to teach kids?
Water usage. The students meet with Fulton County Public Works, and they learn just how much water we use, as opposed to the minimum we need to survive, and how we can save water. Then, we go to the water reclamation plant and learn what happens behind the scenes there.
What are your most popular activities kids like to do?
They really like planting trees, birding and working with other animal groups, such as the Amphibian Society. They love hands-on activities.
Who came up with AUE?
AUE was created by Melanie Furr, director of education, for students to learn about ecology and to bring people from all walks of life together to learn about science in a way they can understand.
What do you want kids to think about when it comes to wildlife and ecology?
Have an open mind. So many aspects of science and ecology all work together. This connectivity is what I want people to appreciate.
Where could people go to learn more about this program?
Visit the Georgia Audubon website (www.georgiaaudubon.org) and Facebook page (@georgiaaudubon), and look for Atlanta Urban Ecologists.
– Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.
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