ECI: Slingshot Opportunities

All events are FREE with lunch provided: supported by the National Geographic Society’s Slingshot Challenge.

Mapping Purpose Events

  • Come to the Riverside stretch of Indianapolis’ Central Canal, originally constructed for transportation, but now the local source of our drinking water. We will learn about the history of the Canal and its surrounding communities, its connection to Fall Creek, White River, and other local bodies of water, and how our water is treated and transported to us. This will include a brief overview of the recently completed Dig Indy tunnel project. We’ll have dinner in a secluded sitting area along the Hackberry trail, cared for by Groundwork Indy.

    Partners: Mapping Purpose LLC, Central Canal Committee, Earth Charter Indiana, National Geographic, Groundwork Indy, Frank’s Paddlesports Livery, Riverside Civic League, EnviroNoir, Citizens’ Energy Group

    Tuesday April 14, 2026 5-6:30pm EST 975 Burdsal Pkwy, Indianapolis IN 46208

  • We will meet at Kheprw Institute’s South Meridian location, and briefly learn about the Indigenous and multicultural history of the Pleasant Run watershed before heading out for a cleanup of the area, then rejoining for a delicious lunch. To make things more fun and educational, volunteers at the cleanup can participate in an optional scavenger hunt for a prize.

    Partners: Earth Charter Indiana, Mapping Purpose LLC, Kheprw Institute, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Pleasant Run Waterway Committee, EnviroNoir

    Saturday May 2, 2026 10am-1pm EST 2856 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225

Register for events

Program Information

Earth Charter Indiana is excited to provide enrichment events for Indiana youth ages 13-18 and their families. These hands-on experiences are carefully crafted to inspire project ideas for the National Geographic' Society’s Slingshot Challenge and/or Indiana Eco Science Challenge. Attendees will meet with community members, scientists, historians, storytellers, artists and elders of all ages and experiences. Taking a truly intergenerational approach. 

The Slingshot Challenge provides a video platform for youth to voice their ideas about the future of conservation work. If you are between the ages of 13 to 18 years old and passionate about saving our planet, or are an educator looking for ways to engage students with impactful storytelling and environmental action, check out our field trips and mentorship opportunities sponsored by the National Geographic Society!