(WSBT) The environment took center stage in downtown South Bend Sunday.

Dozens gathered for the "Green Up! Step It Up!" rally in front of the Morris Performing Arts Center. Organizers hope it'll encourage more people to join the fight for a better environment.

"I wondered what can one person can do and how can one person contribute," said rally organizer Kerry Temple.

But after a few conversations, Kerry Temple learned he's not the only one fighting for a cleaner, safer environment.

"It feels great just to see that we're not alone in this and other people care about it too," said Notre Dame student Eileen Wilkie.

With signs in hand, students marched to downtown South Bend to show their support. They agree it's never too earlier to start making a difference.

"It's better to get started now. It'll make it easier for us in the future," said Wilkie.

"The more information we can get out there the better. People need to know how to help and I think they want to help," said South Bend resident Stefan Konstantopoulous.

With global warming a growing concern, organizers hope rallies like these will make others rethink their choices when it comes to the environment.

"We need to take steps and we need to get business to take steps and we need to prompt the U.S. government to take steps to take a change in direction in the way we lives for a better quality of life for all of us," said Temple.

Several people including 2nd District Congressman Joe Donnelly, South Bend Mayor Steve Luecke and Green Party candidates spoke at the rally.

The event was one of thousands held across the country this weekend.