By Andi Anderson
Claire Lu of Story County has been named a finalist for the prestigious 4-H Youth in Action Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability, youth engagement, and community service. The honor highlights her efforts to transform scientific knowledge into meaningful action that benefits communities and inspires young people.
Through her involvement in Iowa 4-H and the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa, Lu developed valuable leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. These experiences helped her launch several initiatives focused on sustainability education and community involvement.
"Participating in Iowa 4-H through SSTFI has been such a rewarding experience, providing me with confidence in my abilities for event planning," Lu said. “I've found a passion not only in advocating for environmental issues, but also in the people I'm able to unite and connect with through this process.”
Lu's passion for environmental sustainability grew during her high school years through research projects and STEM learning opportunities. As she interacted with educators, researchers, and community leaders, she learned that successful solutions require collaboration and public engagement.
“I connected with professionals who challenged me to think beyond the science itself,” she said. “One comment that stuck with me was that a solution is only as impactful as its implementation.”
Motivated by this idea, Lu founded EcoTips in 2024, a student-led initiative designed to promote sustainability awareness and community participation. Building on this success, she co-founded EcoVision, a youth-led nonprofit organization that connects residents with environmental organizations, local leaders, and hands-on educational experiences.
In 2025, EcoVision brought together more than 350 community members and 20 organizations. The initiative created opportunities for people of different ages and backgrounds to learn about sustainability and participate in environmental activities.
"I was proud of the people I was able to engage with," she said. "This included high school volunteers, elementary schoolers, elder community members and local sustainability leaders. It was inspiring to see such a diverse group of community members come together around a shared goal."
"Through this experience, I've learned that leadership is about creating opportunities for others, building partnerships, listening to all perspectives and remaining flexible," Lu said. "EcoVision reflects 4-H's core values by promoting service, civic engagement and hands-on learning to create meaningful community impact."
Recognizing growing interest among younger children, Lu and her team launched EcoKids, a free sustainability and STEM camp. The program introduces youth to environmental science through activities such as building solar ovens, creating water filtration systems, and exploring plant science concepts. Approximately 50 young participants attended the inaugural camp.
"It was truly inspiring to see youth interact with sustainability with so much excitement," Lu said.
Lu credits Iowa 4-H mentors and experiences for helping her build confidence in public speaking, networking, and leadership. Her achievements demonstrate how youth can create positive change through service and collaboration.
"When I first received the news that I received the finalist status, I was really excited and really grateful to all the mentors, volunteers and friends who had supported this initiative throughout the process," Lu said. “EcoTips was something I truly couldn't have done alone. We have an amazing board of high school students and local mentors in our community.”
Looking ahead, Lu hopes to continue working at the intersection of science, policy, and sustainability while encouraging other young people to pursue their passions.
"4-H taught me resilience, adaptability and the value of collaboration," she said. "Most importantly, 4-H gave me a sense of purpose. It showed me that youth can create change when they combine curiosity and active learning in their community with action."
Her journey demonstrates how determination, education, and community involvement can empower young leaders to make a lasting difference and inspire future generations.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Iowa, Education