How we connect the dots
Our Mission
We live in an age of endless information, where headlines and short-form content can spark curiosity but often leave out the broader context. At Connecting The Dots Project (CTDP), a youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we build on that curiosity by creating original, evidence-based content that explores the science, technology, economics, business, and public policy behind today's environmental challenges. By making complex topics clear, engaging, and accessible, we help people connect the dots, think critically, make informed decisions, and take meaningful action.
What we do
1, Environmental Literacy
We create carefully researched articles and educational resources that make environmental issues easier to understand. Whenever possible, we draw from original research, scientific studies, government reports, and other primary sources to provide the context often missing from today's fast-moving news cycle. We also explore different perspectives, uncertainties, and tradeoffs so readers can better understand the complexity behind environmental issues.
2, Tell Stories
Documentaries, Interviews & Short Videos.
3, Build Community
Volunteer projects, workshops, and youth engagement
One example is our initiative to plant sunflowers in vacant lots across Chicago. Beyond their beauty, sunflowers can help improve soil through phytoremediation. The project transforms underused spaces into vibrant community gardens while promoting environmental stewardship and neighborhood engagement.
Special thanks to Mr. Robert McHugh of Sunflower City, Ms. Gina Jamaison of Kuumba Tre-Ahm Community Garden, Mandy Penksa of Relish Chicago Farm, the Garfield Park Community Council, Breakthrough Ministry, and all of the volunteers and community members who made this initiative possible.
Partnering with NGOs and Local Communities for Environmental Literacy and Live-in Experiences.
Special thanks to Girls4Science and Friends of Chicago River
Our Team
Founder and President: Kana Hutchens
Meet Kana Hutchens, an incoming freshman at Stanford University and an award-winning filmmaker whose work has been recognized at more than 30 film festivals worldwide, including several Academy Award-qualifying festivals.
Her passion for environmental advocacy began at a young age after watching a powerful video of an orangutan trying to defend its forest home from deforestation. Deeply moved by that moment, Kana became determined to better understand the environmental challenges facing our planet and inspire others to care about them as well.
That journey ultimately led her to found the Connecting The Dots Project.
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Contributing Writer: Kavi Myers
Meet Kavi Myers, a high school student and contributing writer for our social media platforms. Since joining the board in 2023, he has written about renewable energy, environmental technology, the economic impacts of pollution and climate change, and the policies shaping sustainable development. He has also co-authored several publications on microplastics and climate change.
Kavi is interested in business and entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on the role of emerging industries and technology in addressing environmental issues. He enjoys exploring how economic incentives, innovation, and public policy influence the future of sustainability.
