The future of LA’s trees is in the hands of the next generation of Angelenos this summer.
After five years of historic drought and extreme heat, many of LA’s trees are thirsty and vulnerable. And without healthy trees shading campuses and communities, students suffer— the air they breathe isn’t clean, they don’t have access to green space to cool down and even have their health impacted.
Thankfully for the third summer in a row, TreePeople’s Youth Leadership Program has invited LA area high school students to take climate action and join in on our Summer Tree Care Internship. We couldn’t be happier— we’re strong believers that the power of trees and youth together, are vital for livable, green neighborhoods.
When young people take tree care into their own hands, amazing things happen. Among other countless benefits, access to trees and nature has proven to boost academic achievement, minimize the effects of ADHD and reduce stress. That’s why we love school tree care projects! It’s critically linked to environmental and educational success.
Participating students partner with our Youth Leadership Manager, Enjoli Ferrari, who works with these climate champions across the county. She trains the students and gives them all the tools needed to succeed— and yes, we mean REAL tools!
Enjoli kicks off each summer program with a large tree care event where she provides all the necessary equipment and teaches each intern the proper way to care for thirsty trees. She takes it upon herself to make sure that these hard working students have everything they need to ensure their campus and park trees survive the summer heat and thrive for another school year.
Even with the program being in its early years, these amazing environmental youth leaders have already cared for more than 600 trees and native plants!
What warms our heart even more is seeing the passion of the students. Some interns have already started spreading the word about this important work by building a website to document their experience. The simple act of caring for trees has the power to help nature heal our city as well as nurture budding community leaders.
Can’t wait to see the results? Make sure to check back later this summer to see how many trees this year’s team cared for!