Saving the Earth Alongside Rock Stars
Sophomore psychology major Liz Pattison wanted to make a difference. So she committed herself to a year of rock and roll.
Rocking the earth
When Liz began looking for a work-study position early in 2006, she knew she wanted to do work that would have a positive impact. She accepted a position with Rock the Earth, which let her follow her interest in the environment while learning what it takes to run a nonprofit.
"I gained a better understanding of planning, organization and the dedication required," Liz says.
Two days a week from January 2006 through that summer, Liz worked in Rock the Earth's downtown Denver office. She updated the organization's membership databases, researched environmental issues and prepared materials for outreach events.
For Rock the Earth, those events are concerts by some of the nation's best-known rock musicians, including Bonnie Raitt, Jack Johnson, the Dave Matthews Band and the Barenaked Ladies.
Environmental attorney Marc Ross, Rock the Earth's founder and executive director, says half a dozen DU students like Liz have made great contributions to the organization.
"Liz came in before we had our part-time office manager," Ross says, noting that Liz helped with office administration and program coordination tasks such as membership renewals, research, outreach and education.
Going on the road
Liz went to Detroit Lakes, Minn., in the summer of 2006 for the 10,000 Lakes Festival. The lineup for the four-day concert featured performances by String Cheese Incident, Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Hot Buttered Rum and more. Liz worked the outreach booth, educating concertgoers on environmental issues and signing up new Rock the Earth members.
"It was a way to work side by side with the music community to gain membership [to Rock the Earth] and educate the public," Liz says. "I got to hear music at the same time."
Today, as a DU Environmental Team officer, Liz is helping other DU students find volunteer opportunities with Rock the Earth. She says students can work booths at shows year-round.
Published on Dec. 9, 2006