Dunes Learning Center recently accepted a donation from local lifestyle brand The IN Coast, to support the organization’s year-round environmental education programs.
The IN Coast intern Ella Girzadas designed a “Camp Ella” clothing line for the winter holidays and chose to donate her commission to Dunes Learning Center. Girzadas, a senior at Chesterton High School, said she wanted to donate to an organization that fosters environmental stewardship. She and The IN Coast Founder Jenny Soffin agreed on Dunes Learning Center, where Ella attended an overnight program as an elementary school student.
Dunes Learning Center offers a variety of school year and summer camp options for kids from 5-17 years old. Campers attend overnight or day programs inside the Indiana Dunes National Park, where they have limitless opportunities to connect with nature and make new friends while enjoying time outdoors, inside the park.
“We are so grateful for the generosity of both Ella and The IN Coast,” said Heather Hahn Sullivan, executive director of Dunes Learning Center. “Knowing that Ella wants to take her environmental awareness into her future career as a fashion designer is amazing. Dunes Learning Center strives to inspire the stewards of tomorrow, across many different fields.”
Outside of her internship, Girzadas is also the president of Chesterton’s Environmental Action Requires Teen Help (EARTH) club. This year, the club chose to focus on improving the high school’s recycling system and educating their peers about recyclable items.
ABOUT DUNES LEARNING CENTER
Dunes Learning Center has been providing exceptional outdoor learning experiences that spark curiosity, joy, and wonder for 25 years. Overnight and under the stars in Indiana Dunes National Park, school groups and summer campers make meaningful and memorable connections as they explore the ecology and history of the 4th most biodiverse National Park in our country. Need-based financial assistance makes the experience possible for more than 50% of the students who join us on campus each year. Learn more at www.DunesLearningCenter.org.
Intern Ella Girzadas, Dunes Learning Center Executive Director Heather Hahn Sullivan, The IN Coast Founder Jenny Soffin