Earth Day is April 22^nd.  Think globally, act locally.  Your family can get involved in the celebration of Earth Day by participating in the project below! What does planting a tree have to do with peace? Destruction of the environment is directly linked to poverty, human rights violations, civil conflict and war.

Project:

Plant a tree in honor of peace and to help the environment!

Here's what you need:

• A location for where you want to plant your tree
• A tree you would like to plant
• Gloves, shovels and a water source to be used when planting

Here’s what you’re doing:

Your family, together, will plant a tree in your own yard or community!

Here’s How!

• Decide where you would like to plant the tree. Check your neighborhood, a park, low-income housing development, a community center or a local shelter to see if they would like a tree planted.
• Consider dedicating the tree to someone in your community.
• Choose a tree that will thrive in your area.
• Before you dig, contact the telephone, gas electric, cable and sewer companies.  Ask them to check the area where you want to plant so you don’t hit any cables or pipes.
• Make arrangements for the tree to be taken care of after you have planted it.

Interesting Fact:

One tree in its average 50-year lifetime can clean up $62,000 of air pollution! Trees also lower energy costs.

Reflection Questions:

How did it feel to work together to plant a tree as a family?

What are the benefits that this tree will provide for the area it was planted in over the years?

Are there other areas in your community that could benefit from having a tree planted?

• By participating in this project I take responsibility for its planning and execution, as well as the safety and supervision of young children.