PEEC

Joel Penkala, Director of Development for the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), updated both the luncheon and satellite groups on PEEC initiatives. Started in 1972, it first was an educational facility in partnership with Keystone College at the former Honeymoon Haven. Part of the Tocks Island Dam project, it is now a non-profit physically located within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. It serves as an educational area giving urban dwellers an overnight experience so they can experience, appreciate and preserve nature and the environment. There are hiking trails, kayaking and canoeing, including some that are ADA compliant. During COVID, they used the facilities and staff to respond to community feeding programs including Meals on Wheels and Office of the Aging. The latest initiative in development is the Corporate Volunteer Program. The goal is to have groups experience PEEC and then share their experiences. They want to focus on skills building, social/emotional learning, watershed experience and guided hikes. Although COVID hampered in person educational experiences, they embraced technology using Zoom and cameras to share experiences with school students. They are optimistic about giving students and adults in-person experiences to inspire them to become good stewards in the future. For more information and/or to donate or volunteer, visit https://www.peec.org.