Since 2005, the Society for Ecological Restoration has reserved one day of its World Conferences for attendees to engage with local ecological restoration projects. This day has been proudly called Make a Difference Day due to its significant positive impact on the locale of the conference.

With the upcoming #SER2021 World Conference going virtual, Make a Difference Day  is growing beyond the boundaries of the conference to become Make a Difference Week! SER is extending the traditional day-long activities to a week to give everyone, everywhere the opportunity to participate.. The Make a Difference Week is scheduled to run from 5–13 June 2021, launching on World Environment Day with the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Therefore, we are seeking individuals and organizations to partner with, and organize locally relevant and volunteer-led restoration events as part of the Make a Difference Week. With your help, Make a Difference Week will be one of the largest ecological restoration initiatives ever!

Make a Difference Week events do not need to be any different than a typical volunteer event in length or focus, and it can take place on any day during the week of 5–13 June. Potential activities include but are not limited to: restoration plantings, seed collection and seedball making, invasive plant pulls, and garbage pick ups. Overall, your event of choice must be easily accomplished in a COVID safe manner in your area.

SER has created a committee to help support this effort. If you are interested in organizing a Make a Difference event in your area as part of #SER2021, please get in touch with us at egornish@email.arizona.edu. We look forward to hearing back about your ideas and paving a way for restoration activities worldwide!