Dearborn — The Environmental Program at ACCESS has been a leader on environmental issues in Southeast Michigan since its inception, promoting community health protection, environmental advocacy for vulnerable communities, and youth leadership development. For over a decade, ACCESS has brought a unique and important voice to the environmental community as the only Arab American organization working on environmental issues in the nation.

 From groundbreaking research, to coalition-building that drives environmental policy change at a state level, to empowering area youth to be future environmental leaders, ACCESS continues to pioneer the development of “greener” communities.  Our YALLA and Healthy Kids programs engage over 150 youth in community action projects that make our community a safer, healthier place.

 On April 9, 2008 at 6 p.m.,  the 5th Annual Environmental Leadership Celebration will be held.  More than 300 community and environmental leaders, public officials, and industry representatives are expected to be present as Mohamad A. Chakaki, international Arab American environmental leader and activist, presents as guest speaker.  Also to be honored are Shadia Wood, nationally recognized youth leader on environmental justice and climate issues with the  Environmental Leadership Award, and Dr. Bunyan Bryant, prominent educator, social activist and environmental justice pioneer, with the Lifetime Leadership Award.

The event will be held at the Bint Jebail Cultural Center, 6450 Maple St., Dearborn,

ACCESS is a human services organization committed to the development of the Arab American community in all aspects of economic and cultural life.  ACCESS helps low-income families, as well as newly arrived immigrants adapt to life in America.  Its goal is to foster a greater understanding of Arab culture in the U.S. and in the Arab world.  ACCESS provides a wide range of social, mental health, educational, artistic, employment, legal, and medical services, and is dedicated to empowering people to lead more informed, productive, and fulfilling lives.