Overview Northbrook Event Sustainability Project

Why Our Youth Created This Initiative

During some discernment, our Growing in Faith youth noticed that trash at Northbrook events often overflows and that recycling options are not always clear. They shared a desire to help create a more sustainable Northbrook and to live out their missions work in a visible and practical way. Their hope is to support our community, create sustainability partnerships, contribute to our conference's creation care work, and help local events reflect our values of stewardship and hospitality.

This vision has grown into the Northbrook Event Sustainability Project, a new initiative led by our youth and supported by all NUMC generations. Together, we will help local events reduce waste, improve recycling clarity, and offer a friendly presence that encourages responsible celebration.

Shermerfest Pilot Project

Shermerfest is the perfect place to begin. In partnership with the Northbrook Park District and the Northbrook History Museum, our youth will create bright and inviting signage for four waste stations at Village Green. These signs will help guests understand what belongs in each bin and make the stations more welcoming and easy to use.

On Sunday, September 27, both youth and adults are invited to help staff these stations. Staffing a station is simple. Volunteers offer a warm presence, help guests choose the correct bin, and keep the stations running smoothly throughout the afternoon. This small act of service supports sustainability efforts in our community and gives our youth a meaningful leadership role.

Event Details:

Where: Village Green, Northbrook

When: Sunday, Sept 27, noon to 4 PM

What: Shermerfest community celebration with cars, vendors, food, music, and family friendly fun

Volunteer Shifts

If you would like to serve alongside our youth at Shermerfest, you may choose one of the following shifts:

  • 12 to 2 PM

  • 2 to 4 PM

Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Red NUMC shirts will be provided. If you are not signed up for Breeze just yet and/or didn't receive the volunteer email - EMAIL AMANDA at hello@northbrookumc.org to sign up for a volunteer slot.

Where This Initiative Can Grow

The Shermerfest pilot is only the beginning. As we learn what works well, we hope to expand this project to future community events, including larger gatherings like Northbrook Days. With additional partners and support, this initiative could eventually include:

  • Clear recycling options at every major event

  • Composting stations when a safe and sanitary pickup solution becomes available

  • Hopeful partnerships with Go Green Northbrook & Northbrook Sustainability Commission

  • Sponsorship opportunities where local businesses help fund signage, bins, and supplies

  • A full community sustainability effort that reflects our shared commitment to caring for creation

We believe that small acts of service can make a big impact, and we are excited to see where this project leads.

Support the Project

If you would like to support this initiative financially, you may make a donation to help cover supplies, signage materials, and future expansion. Your generosity helps our youth lead boldly and we thank you for the consideration.

Click here to help sponsor this project (coming soon).