Impact

manual arts Student data 2024-25 school year

Testimonials

“Chicas Verdes makes me feel like I’m wanted somewhere. I’m not alone and I’m enough for being who I am”
— JANET 18
“Everyone deserves access to a healthy lifestyle regardless of where they live or their financial situation”
— JENNIFER 17
“When I put my hands in the dirt, the first thing that comes to mind is how I can change my life to be, just, happier”
— DAFNE 17
“Chicas Verdes taught me that if I truly believe in something, like making a change, it can actually happen”
— VERONICA 17

GIRLS BUILD 24-25 Impact Report: Recycling Infrastructure Initiative – Manual Arts High School

Core Impact:

  • Installed 10 permanent recycling bins in high-traffic areas

  • Engaged 1,200+ students and staff through educational outreach

  • Diverted an estimated 1,500+ lbs of waste from landfill in the first 3 months

Outcomes

Environmental:

  • 30% increase in properly sorted recyclables 

  • Clear reduction in mixed-waste contamination in student areas

Educational:

  • 5 peer-to-peer presentations and 1 schoolwide campaign

  • 82% of surveyed students reported feeling “more aware” of proper recycling practices

Leadership Development:

  • 6 students in leadership roles (outreach, data tracking, signage design)

  • Increased student confidence in leading campus-wide initiatives

Evidence

  • Survey responses (pre- and post-project) from 200+ students

  • Waste tracking from custodial staff 

  • Photos of installed bins

  • Sample lesson materials and flyers used in the outreach campaign

Reflection

  • “What started as a project to reduce waste became a movement of ownership and pride. We saw students educate each other, advocate for greener practices, and truly take responsibility for their environment. The success of the project wasn’t just in pounds recycled; it was in attitudes changed.” Dairreon B.

  • “One key challenge was encouraging consistent use of the bins during lunch and after school hours. We overcame this by recruiting student ambassadors to monitor usage and share reminders.” Eric P. 

  • “If we were to expand this, we’d create a rewards system and explore composting options.” Amelia B. 

Expenses: 

Recycling Bins and lids: $878.70

Trash Bags/ Gloves to collect recycling: $55

Printing-posters, flyers: $66.30

Total: $1000