Gaithersburg Teen Wins 'Call For Kindness' Grant To Help Pollinators

GAITHERSBURG, MD — A Gaithersburg teen is among 40 young people nationwide being recognized by Riley's Way Foundation for their "commitment to leading with kindness, empathy, and inclusivity."

Luke Amberman, 15, is a 2023 Call For Kindness winner for his Justice Garden project, which combines environmental justice through living art, restoration of native habitats to support threatened pollinators, and more green spaces in underserved communities.

Amberman and the other winners, all between the ages of 13 and 22, are being recognized for their innovative ideas, and they will receive grants of up to $3,000 for their projects.

"The Call for Kindness inspires and draws in exceptionally gifted young leaders who are driven by a deep passion to make the world a better place," Ian Sandler, co-founder and board chair of Riley's Way, said in a news release. "These remarkable young leaders hold the key to tackling the world's most pressing issues, and by investing in them, we can help them turn their ideas into reality. Whether they are just beginning to explore or have advanced plans, we strive to support and encourage them to imagine a better future and work tirelessly toward it."

According to Riley's Way, the Call For Kindness projects "create a clear blueprint for uplifting communities and bringing hope for a better future." The 40 winning social impact projects were chosen from hundreds of applications that came from young people in 20 states.

Added Dr. Christine O'Connell, executive director of Riley's Way, "The 2023 Call For Kindness winners reflect critical issues top of mind for young people today. They answered the call to make a difference, adding to a national movement for kindness."

To learn more about Riley's Way, visit RileysWay.org or support the Movement on Instagram@rileyswayfoundation and Facebook @RileysWayFoundation.