Life on land in Chautauqua County comes alive when seen through the eyes of our youngest community members, whether exploring local tourist attractions, experiencing community events, or discovering the wonders of our area in action. We hope this fresh perspective reminds you to appreciate, protect, and celebrate the beauty and resources around us every day.
You don't need a cape to make a difference, just a voice!
CHQ Community Upstanders empowers students to recognize, celebrate, and amplify the everyday heroes making a difference in Chautauqua County. Through student-led interviews, storytelling, and community connections, students shine a spotlight on individuals who demonstrate kindness, courage, compassion, leadership, and a commitment to making our community a better place.
As students discover and share these inspiring stories, they learn that being an Upstander isn't about being extraordinary, it's about taking action, standing up for others, and recognizing that even the smallest acts of kindness can create meaningful change.
Follow along as our students share the voices, stories, and impact of the incredible people who make Chautauqua County stronger, one Upstander at a time!
October’s Community Upstanders spotlight celebrates our local fire departments, everyday heroes who protect our community with courage, dedication, and heart. Click The Protectors, to watch their story!
CHQ Kids Care is dreaming BIG this year, and we're woking on a new community project with Everwild Land Trust, that brings together reading, nature, exploration, and connection.
INTRODUCING a little sneak peek....
Imagine a stories that take you beyond the pages of a book and into the great outdoors, where families can explore, discover, and experience the places that make our community so special.
We're bringing together literacy, outdoor adventure, and community pride to create something meaningful for families and we can't wait to share more! Our first community Storywalk will take place at Goose Creek where families will learn about a brave little Osprey.
As students work to create our first trail installation we are excited that this will create a voice, purpose, and a chance to make a difference in our community.
Want to create a story for a trail near you? Contact us and we will help make it happen!
Read! Hike! Discover CHQ!
CHQ Kids Care is excited to introduce a new segment called “Bring People to Chautauqua,” an initiative started by students at Westfield Academy to showcase why Chautauqua County is such a special place to visit.
Their first feature partnered with Full Strength Coffee in Westfield and highlighted the story of Abraham Lincoln and Grace Bedell, even imagining Abe thanking Grace for the famous statue in the center of town. Through creativity, storytelling, and community pride, students are helping promote local businesses and historical landmarks in a meaningful way.
The project encourages other schools across CHQ to create their own videos celebrating the unique places and people in their communities. This inspiring idea earned students the Creativity and Innovation Award at STEM Wars! Keep those videos coming CHQ!
Send us your business highlight to be featured here.
CHQ Kids Care is proudly partnered with Chautauqua County Health Department to promote radon awareness through hands-on education and a student poster contest. Contest details are found here and Poster Deadline is November 1st!!
2026 Radon Poster Contest Winners received prizes from Chautauqua County Health Department and Northwest Savings Bank Ice Arena.
Together, we are empowering young leaders to protect their homes, schools, and community. Thank you for supporting learning in action for our community!
For more information about radon testing and available resources, contact the Chautauqua County Health Department and view the Radon Awareness Video below.
Collin Barmore, Public Health Technician, to schedule a presentation for your school. barmorec@chqgov.com