At the end of August, I'm going to the Earth Activist Training in Missouri. Here's a summary of the training, taken from the official website:

"Earth Activist Training blends a full permaculture certification course with Earth-based spirituality, practical political effectiveness, and nature awareness. Learn how to transform land, communities, political systems, and yourself. Discover solutions, renew personal energy, and find hope for our world."

Once I return from this session, I'll go to work on one or more new projects that will bring the benefits of this training and certification to Southern Illinois. Possibilities include a series of permaculture workshops; a permaculture landscaping project; a new permaculture farm or garden; and a permaculture consulting service. I will choose from among these and other options once I've completed the training -- and all of the resulting projects and services will be made available to the public through a combination of free/donated services and paid services in a low price range suitable for Southern Illinois.

However, there's one catch: funding.

The total tuition for the Earth Activist Training is $1100. I've applied for the work-trade program, and I expect to be accepted. However, even if I'm accepted, work-trade usually only covers half of the tuition. I've already paid my $100 deposit, but this still leaves me with at least $500 that I have to raise ASAP.

Therefore, I'm holding a Permaculture Fundraiser on Friday, July 28 at 7 pm at the Big Muddy IMC. At this event, I'll offer a multimedia presentation about the Earth Activist Training and what I intend to bring back to the community from this program. After the presentation, we'll have open discussion about permaculture, community organizing, and what these projects may bring to the people and land of Southern Illinois.

If you don't have any money to spare, you are still highly encouraged to come to the event simply to learn more about permaculture and talk to others who share your interest. (Staying informed is a gift to the community! :) And if you're interested in supporting this project financially, I'll have a variety of options available:

• Books and other items for sale
• "Earth Activist Tickets" that you can redeem after the EAT to receive an hour or more of my certified permaculture design services
• Pre-registration for my first workshop in September
• Donation jar for anonymous contributions

I'll have flyers and other promotional materials available soon, but I thought I'd pass along the basic info in the meantime. For more information, you can contact me at 618.525.0625 or by email at treesong@treesong.org. Thanks for listening; thanks in advance for spreading the word; and I hope to see you there!