Turn Down the Heat!

Volunteering is one way to bring down the heat!

The Suzuki Elders are a group of mostly seniors who are affiliated with the David Suzuki Foundation (DSF). The idea for the group dates back over two decades and it came from David Suzuki himself, who thought that the people working for the Foundation on a myriad of environmental projects might benefit by meeting with and listening to elders – much as younger leaders in Indigenous nations listen to their own elders. 
 
While a good idea, it turned out that the DSF activists were often too busy to meet a seniors’ group, so the seniors decided – with the encouragement of the leadership of the Foundation – to undertake their own projects, allied with the DSF. And that’s what the Suzuki Elders have been doing for the past 15 years.
 
Anyone, it was decided, who considers themselves an Elder, and who believes in the environment cause, can join the group, and, over time, over 200 folks have participated. Most are in the Vancouver area, but a few are spread out across Canada, and a small number in other counties. 
 
Suzuki Elders have organized seminars on a wide variety of topics, often focusing on problems caused by climate change, and what can be done about it. They’ve lobbied governments, participated in demonstrations, informed themselves by hosting experts and holding book clubs, worked with youth groups in schools, and many, many other activities. Recently they’ve been sponsoring information sessions on green energy. 
 
The group has recently revised its website which describes what the Suzuki Elders have done, how they hope for the future, and how to join. Check it out! 

Neale Adams