Survive the Sun: Youth Leadership in Action

I am always told to envision the future I want. In my ideal world, young people are given the resources to make change themselves—not just told they are “the future,” but empowered to shape the present. Thanks to organizations like the Bloomberg Foundation and the Idaho Conservation League, that vision is becoming a reality. Through their support, we received a grant from the City of Boise’s Youth Climate Action Fund to create “Survive the Sun” climate care kits. We are proud that Youth Salmon Protectors has been given the tools and opportunity to take action now.This summer, the Boise chapter of Youth Salmon Protectors created over 200 Climate Care Kits for Interfaith Sanctuary, a vital shelter in downtown Boise. These kits include essential items for relief during the intense summer heat, such as water bottles, sunscreen, hygiene supplies, and other items that are often overlooked but essential. Now more than ever, it’s crucial that we build long-lasting systems for our unhoused neighbors to survive rising temperatures. Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue; It’s about people, who are being pushed to the margins by extreme weather, environmental degradation, and inadequate infrastructure. In Boise and across the planet, temperatures continue to climb year after year. We must create sustainable systems of support for those most vulnerable to the impacts of rising temperatures. Young people have the creativity, drive, and urgency to respond to it head-on in our communities. And right now in Boise, this project is making a difference. The future I imagine is one where youth are not only heard, but trusted to lead. One where we respond to the climate crisis with both urgency and compassion. And one where our ideas are met with real resources to make tangible change. When you support youth advocacy programs like the Youth Salmon Protectors, you are helping build a stronger community today and tomorrow.