CHICAGO – The Student Conservation Association (SCA) today announced it will host a tree-planting event in honor of Earth Month from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 28, at Proksa Park in Berwyn.
The event is made possible through a partnership with the Morton Arboretum’s Chicago Region Trees Initiative, Berwyn Park District and the Berwyn Tree Canopy Initiative. Also joining the cause is Aerie Real Foundation Ambassador Aly Raisman, gold medal gymnast and advocate.
With trees making up only 16% of the city, Chicago ranks worst in the state of Illinois for pollution. To help combat this, the SCA is partnering with local organizations passionate about creating opportunities to help grow greener communities to improve the quality of life for residents.
“Trees are proving to be an important environmental necessity now more than ever, especially in urban areas. They provide shade, reduce air pollution and improve mental health,” said SCA President and CEO Lidia Soto-Harmon. “Planting trees not only beautifies the city, but it also creates a healthier and sustainable environment for generations to come. We are excited to join forces this Earth Month with our amazing partners to help improve the world around us one tree at a time.”
As the world faces growing concerns about climate change, there is a growing body of research showing that neighborhood trees and urban forests improve our physical and mental well-being. Trees are also on the fort lines for reducing rising temperatures and helping protect against the increase of extreme weather events.
“The Aerie Real Foundation is thrilled to celebrate Earth Month alongside the Student Conservation Association as we work together with our Aerie community to ensure Proksa Park remains a beautiful greenspace,” said Marcie Eberhart, Senior Director – Corporate Giving & Social Responsibility, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. “We are incredibly proud to support initiatives that share our passion for protecting the planet and for making the world a brighter place for future generations.”
Trees also provide an estimated $18.3 billion in annual value of air pollution removal, reduced building energy use, carbon sequestration, and avoided pollutant emissions. Meanwhile, access to parks, gardens, trees and forests helps improve quality of life by boosting mental health, reducing stress and increasing opportunities for social interactions.
Through its Urban Green Program, the SCA provides young people with paid green jobs, including single-day service projects, seasonal work and year-long internships or fellowships. In Chicago, participants plant trees, build trails and restore habitats while exploring green job opportunities, building leadership skills, and learning about the local environment through environmental education field trips, outdoor recreation and work projects.
EVENT DETAILS
WHAT: SCA + Aerie Real Foundation Tree Chicago Tree Planting Event
WHEN: 1 – 4 p.m. CST Sunday, April 28 (Check-in begins at 12:45 PM. Light lunch will be provided.)
WHERE: Proksa Park, 3001 Wisconsin Ave., Berwyn, IL 60402
BRING WITH YOU: Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring extra layers, sunblock, and a hat to prepare for the weather. Please also bring your own water bottle to stay hydrated. Water refill stations and snacks will be provided.
PARKING: Street parking is available. Carpooling is encouraged. Public Transit close to Proksa Park includes train stops at Harlem Ave. & Berwyn (10-15 minute walk) and bus stops at 307 Harlem Ave & Lindberg Rd/30th Streets (4-minute walk).
About the Student Conservation Association
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces across the country. The SCA is devoted to building equitable access to nature, providing green job opportunities for young people and teaching members how to become environmental stewards. Founded in 1957, the SCA is committed to building the next generation of conservation leaders dedicated to the lifelong protection of the environment and our communities.
