Urban Forestry

Benefits Of Trees

Trees transform urban spaces into vibrant, healthier and more resilient communities.

A tree and houses with sun and clouds graphic Saves Energy
A drawing of a bench and trees Increases Urban Biodiversity
A green triangle tree with a city in the background graphic Filters Air Pollution
A tree and earth with thermometer graphic Mitigates Climate Change
A tree with a brain and clouds graphic Improves Mental Health
A house and trees with a dollar sign graphic Increases Property Value
Urban Forestry

Why Do Communities Need Trees?

Cities thrive when trees are part of their story. Trees transform urban spaces into vibrant, healthier, and more resilient communities. They cool our neighborhoods, clean the air, nurture biodiversity, and create spaces where people and wildlife can flourish together. A future with more trees uplifts everyone because every community deserves the shade, beauty and the benefits they bring.

A group of people wearing gloves patting dirt around base of a tree
Urban Forestry

New Federal Funding Supercharges SCA’s Urban Forestry Work

In a landmark move, the U.S. Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program has directed $1.5 billion—via the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022—toward expanding the urban tree canopy in underserved communities. This funding empowers organizations like the SCA to transform lives and landscapes. With a 5-year Urban Community Forestry grant, the SCA is pioneering urban forestry initiatives that create careers, engage communities and have real impact in five focal communities. These cities are part of the SCA’s dynamic Urban Green Program.

A person climbing a tree using ropes and pulleys

How We're Taking Action

The SCA empowers and trains young adult and school-aged crews to plant and maintain trees, engage communities through volunteer events and community outreach, provide vital environmental education and more. These crews work closely with the SCA’s local partners to meet community needs, rebuilding tree canopies where they are wanted and needed most. Along the way our young adult and schoolyear leaders and member receive training and certifications to accelerate their conservation career.

  • Paid Opportunities

    We have paid opportunities for young adults (age 18-21) and school-aged (age 15-18) crew members. Work alongside local nonprofits and government agencies on transformative projects, including tree planting and maintenance, community engagement and environmental education. Along the way, deepen your connection to nature through field trips, discussions, and environmental education, all while earning a competitive hourly wage. Your efforts will leave a lasting impact on communities—and on your future. See our open Urban Green positions.

    Apply Now
  • Environmental Education

    Through hands-on activities, program participants cultivate a love for nature and discover their power to shape their local environment. Educate local students about the environment and empower young leaders to champion a greener world.

  • Volunteer

    Join the crew and participate in a variety of volunteer opportunities, including tree plantings and public space cleanup events.

Urban Forestry

Where We're Taking Action

From New York to the San Francisco Bay Area, our Urban Green Forestry crews are busy, planting hope, one tree at a time. In addition to our five Forest Service-funded cities, many of our other Urban Green teams are also rebuilding urban forests while growing careers.

Chicago SCA Urban Green program

Follow The Work We Do

Join our community of supporters who care deeply about preserving parks, public lands and urban green spaces.