Priority Planting

Friends of Trees recognizes that not everyone has equal access to the benefit of trees.

Friends of Trees will always strive to be a welcoming and safe place for everyone, regardless of age, ability, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, political views or economic status. Without our volunteers, we are nothing. But together we do amazing things.
This statement is included at the beginning of all Friends of Trees public planting events

As a community driven organization we foster an atmosphere of inclusion and support, and we strive to build places that are safer and healthy for all. We accomplish this through authentic community conversation; unique partnerships; relevant programming; and attracting and retaining diverse staff and supporters.

Friends of Trees’ Equity and Diversity Inclusion Committee is a standing committee comprised of board and staff who recommend readings and workshops, organize trainings, and review our programs and materials through an equity lens. We use deliberate outreach and communication strategies toward engaging a diverse range of volunteers and tree-recipients. Our board of directors identifies as 55% BIPOC and 66% women; our staff identifies as 53% BIPOC; 50% women; 43% men; 3% gender queer; 3% non-binary.

Community planting goes beyond getting trees in the ground. Friends of Trees’ programs engages volunteers of all ages, races, religions, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status, and political views to plant and care for trees together. Our programming cultivates partnerships that center climate justice and engages people from historically underserved communities to directly play a part in improving the health and livability of their neighborhoods. We administer environmental education and internships that expand opportunities to enter the green workforce. Authentically engaging communities is crucial toward achieving climate justice.

Read a variety of articles about how we work to deliver programming that is equitable and inclusive.