Mill River Park Collaborative proved the perfect partner to bring the vision behind Researchers’ World to life for the North American program launch. Located in the heart of Stamford, Connecticut — just blocks from Henkel’s Consumer Goods North American headquarters — the nonprofit brings expertise in environmental stewardship and education, along with 30 acres of reclaimed green space and a thriving natural ecosystem.
Following a successful pilot program, Researchers’ World at Mill River Park began offering free workshops in June 2021, introducing students to the concepts of sustainability, consumption, recycling, materials science and more.
“We are proud to partner with Henkel to deliver Researchers’ World to the students we serve. Both organizations value a pragmatic and honest approach to environmental education,” says Arthur Selkowitz, Chairman, Mill River Park Collaborative. “It’s really powerful to help kids understand their relationship to nature and how to use their scientific knowledge to make the world a better place.”
While the original vision aims for in-person classes, Henkel and Mill River Park worked together to adapt curriculum for virtual delivery so students could learn safely during the pandemic.
“These lessons do a great job because they’re grounded in average, everyday things kids are familiar with,” says Trent McCann, Professor for Henkel Researchers’ World at Mill River Park, and the face behind many of the workshops. “We empower students with the tools, language, and skills to employ what they learn outside of class. I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing those ‘light bulb’ moments when students realize their power to create positive change.”