TCWP executive director will support an international water-awareness campaign and bring new perspectives home to Northeast Ohio
Tinker’s Creek Watershed Partners (TCWP) Executive Director Dr. Erica Matheny has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Amplifying Community Transformation (ACT) Grant Program. The competitive program supports continued collaboration between U.S. host organizations and participants in the Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program.
Through the grant, Erica will travel to Tunisia to support Refka Abroug, a CEE Fellow who worked with TCWP in spring 2026. Refka’s fellowship was part of the IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program, which connects emerging international leaders with U.S. organizations to strengthen their community engagement skills.
Erica will help Refka advance a community campaign focused on sustainable water use and water scarcity in Tunisia. The project builds on the ideas, partnerships, and strategies Refka developed during her time with TCWP.
Supporting Refka’s Speak4Water Campaign
Refka’s Speak4Water campaign raises awareness of Tunisia’s growing water challenges, including access to safe drinking water, aging infrastructure, climate change, and the need for more sustainable water use.
The campaign will engage schools, community organizations, media outlets, and nongovernmental organizations through education and outreach. Erica is working with Refka to strengthen partnerships, refine outreach strategies, and support the campaign’s implementation.
The visit will also give Erica firsthand insight into community engagement, environmental education, and sustainable resource management in Tunisia.
Continuing a Global Connection
The ACT Grant builds on TCWP’s participation in the Community Engagement Exchange Program and its commitment to learning through collaboration beyond Northeast Ohio.
By supporting Refka’s work, TCWP is contributing to an international network of community leaders addressing local challenges through education, partnership, and community action. Erica will bring the lessons and perspectives gained through the exchange back to Northeast Ohio, strengthening TCWP’s work to protect clean water, restore healthy habitats, and engage communities in watershed stewardship.
From Tinker’s Creek to Tunisia, the challenges may look different, but the importance of informed and engaged communities is universal.