There’s little doubt that the outlook of our forests lies in the hands of future generations. That’s why the Arbor Day Foundation is dedicated to inspiring today’s youth through education about the importance of trees and forests, while also engaging them in the planting and care of the urban and natural forests that define our world.
“The earlier a person can learn about why trees are important in their community and around the globe, the sooner they can start to formulate how they can be a steward of trees throughout their life,” said Logan Donahoo, senior manager of programs at the Arbor Day Foundation.
Helping youth develop a passion for trees can take many forms — everything from schoolyard plantings to part-time jobs.
Future Tree Planters In Detroit
In some Detroit neighborhoods, the view from residents’ front windows isn’t as green as it should be. The lack of trees is creating environmental challenges that can lead to air temperatures up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than well-shaded neighborhoods and the potential for higher rates of childhood asthma.
In some Detroit neighborhoods, the view from residents’ front windows isn’t as green as it should be. The lack of trees is creating environmental challenges that can lead to air temperatures up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than well-shaded neighborhoods and the potential for higher rates of childhood asthma.
Hands-on Training In Los Angeles
In a city like L.A., 38 acres of parkland perched on a hilltop is a treasure. Flat Top Park has been that treasure for residents of the city’s oldest suburb, but the park needed more trees. The Arbor Day Foundation and local planting partner North East Trees teamed up to make it happen. At-promise youth were hired from the surrounding disadvantaged communities, receiving the education and training needed to become stewards of the land. This was the first job for many of them, providing hands-on experience and basic job skills that have set them on a stronger path for the future. The new trees will also offer a respite amid neighborhoods with virtually no tree canopy.
Trees have had a tremendous impact on the lives of these children — both in Detroit and L.A. — making their worlds better. And they will carry this impact into the future.
You can help children in your community build a lifelong connection with trees by getting area schools involved in the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Campus program. Find out more at arborday.org/k12.