In the News
Philadelphia Style, March/April edition, 2005
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Good Deed" Feature: Green Day
By Rebecca Rosner
You probably treat Arbor Day (April 29) like those other undistinguished calendar holidays, Boxing Day and May Day, without giving it a second thought. But this year you can give Arbor Day a bit more respect thanks to UC Green, which unites West Philadelphia residents, university students and business owners to create and maintain green space in the area. The six-year old nonprofit provides the design assistance, professional contracting, tools and funding for tree-planting projects. In return, it asks block residents and volunteers to plant trees and clean up vacant lots.
You can dig in and get involved on April 16 in UC Green's big tree-planting event on 34th Street north of Market Street, where the group intends to plant around 50 trees along five blocks. "On tree planting days we look for fairly able-bodied folks," says Amanda Benner, executive director. "But we also have other tasks for those less physically inclined. We really want people to feel welcome, to come out and get involved. "
But don't feel intimidated if you haven't picked up a shovel in years. Plenty of other gardening events are planned for the spring where even the least experienced can pitch in, Benner says. "It's a great way to get connected to other people in the community and feel like you're doing something positive for the environment and people's health - including your own."
If you're not crazy about getting dirt under your nails, UC Green recently started the Green Gift Cards program, in which you can make a charitable gift to the organization in someone's honor, or make a tax-deductible donation toward future tree plantings and events. To make a donation or to get more information on upcoming events, go to www.ucgreen.org.