Trees reduce resident energy bills by shading homes, reducing the need for air conditioning.
They reduce storm-water run-off by capturing polluted rain water that would otherwise flow into the ocean.
Trees cool urban areas, decreasing heat-related illness and deaths.
They clean the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutant gases and filter particulates out of the air benefiting those with respiratory illness.
Residents of neighborhoods with trees have shown better health perception and lower stress levels compared to those without trees.
The act of planting trees inspires community and social cohesion.
Trees provide a physical and psychological barrier between pedestrians and motorized traffic, increasing safety as well as making walking more enjoyable.
Before planting, youth-led tree outreach and education takes place to inspire community members to want trees planted in front of their homes and encourage resident responsibility for tree care. After planting, youth-led site inspection of trees will occur along with resident check-ins to assess barriers and offer solutions to watering the new tree. If the tree has died within one year of being planted, it will be replaced.
In doing tree education and outreach, youth will learn how to engage with their larger community and how to work with local government. They will also gain access to job skills training, education, and work experience, with an emphasis on conservation and service projects that benefit the community at large.
San Gabriel Valley Conservation Corps (SGVCC) provides Conservation Corps services, social services, mentoring, educational interventions, vocational preparation and career training to participants from the San Gabriel Valley and eastern Los Angeles County. These SGVCC programs lead to reduced recidivism and family-sustaining employment for participants.
Financial support for the initiative comes from Proposition A, the Safe Neighborhood Parks Act, and Los Angeles County Probation Juvenile Justice Crime Prevention Act funding.
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