Water Stewarship

NWA Space is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to build a science center with a 150-seat planetarium, observatory, permanent science exhibits, and hands-on labs for Northwest Arkansas. The center will be a place for all ages to gather and explore science. The center will ultimately be a set of iconic buildings that complement the local area located on the I-49 corridor with connections to the area bike/hike trails. We hope to break ground within three years and open within five.

NY Sun Works is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to bringing quality sustainability science and climate education to K-12 public schools. Through our Hydroponic Classrooms, we provide joyful, hands-on learning experiences that foster scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship. NY Sun Works’ curriculum transforms students into Farmer-Scientists introducing them to the idea of farming as a science subject. Our innovative approach allows students to grow food from seed-to-harvest, understanding the connection between humans, technology, and the environment and their direct relationship to climate change — all while growing hundreds of pounds of fresh produce to share with their families and school communities.

Our programming uses a variety of cutting-edge hydroponic systems and supporting technologies to cultivate student engagement while fostering curiosity, creativity, and a sense of scientific inquiry. While the growing starts at the seedling station, students also learn about the intricate science of composting, the nuances of integrated pest management techniques, and more advanced hydroculture practices including aquaponic farming.

Our goal is to integrate these systems into the school day, fostering deeper connections with nature and a sense of joy in the learning process.

NY Sun Works serves a diverse population of students primarily across the five boroughs of New York City — 39% Hispanic, 19% Black, 21% Asian, and 17% White. With over 75% of our students’ families residing below the poverty level, we focus on bringing our programming to under-resourced communities. Our Hydroponic Classroom programming is accessible to all types of learners, including those who require special accommodations, and is designed to be inclusive and culturally responsive.

We have built more than 350 state-of-the-art Hydroponic Classrooms, positively impacting over 140,000 students annually. Our year-round K-12 curriculum is thoughtfully tailored to each grade level, aligned to Next Generation Science Standards, and supported by our comprehensive teacher training and mentoring that ensure long-term program success.

We believe that a sustainable future starts in the classroom today. We envision a generation of environmental innovators empowered to create solutions to global climate challenges.

Mission Statement: O'Neill Sea Odyssey provides a free, hands-on educational experience to encourage the protection and preservation of our living sea and communities. The O'Neill Sea Odyssey program is rooted in the belief that students learn from experiences, and that the best way to inspire students to protect the ocean environment is for them to experience it firsthand. OSO serves primarily low-income 4-6th grade students from underserved populations. Our program consists of a sailing trip on the Monterey Bay, aboard the Team O'Neill catamaran, and has a three-station format: Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, and Navigation.