Centennial Park (9401 S. Oak Park Ave.) is set to receive 20 native trees as part of a tree planting event on Saturday, May 24 from 9:00 am-noon. This free event is hosted by the Oak Lawn Park District in partnership with the Chicago Muslims Green Team and the Morton Arboretum.
The Park District is looking for volunteers to work with teams to help dig holes, plant trees, add mulch, and water. All materials needed for tree planting and tree care will be provided. As a volunteer, you will work alongside the Chicago Roots Tree Initiative Team and other fantastic volunteers. Trees will be planted near the gazebo at Centennial Park and near Centennial Aquatic Center. For those looking to help:
- Please wear long pants and close toed shoes.
- Dress for the weather- we will plant rain or shine!
- Make sure to bring a full water bottle and sunscreen.
- Light snacks and refreshments will be served.
- Freebie giveaways to volunteers!
To sign-up, please visit www.olparks.com and click the “Tree Planting at Centennial Park” event link on the homepage.
The Chicago Roots Tree Initiative is the Morton Arboretum’s urban and community forestry program, working to improve people’s lives by supporting the health, diversity, and equitable distribution of trees in the Chicago region and throughout Illinois.
“We are happy to be partnering with these organizations to add native trees to one of our most popular parks,” said Tom Hartwig, executive director. “We hope to get as many people as possible to help plant trees, add to the beauty of Centennial Park, and help build a more connected community.”
The Oak Lawn Park District is proud to collaborate on this effort following a proposal from the Chicago Muslims Green Team. The trees, generously donated by The Morton Arboretum, will contribute to the Tree Equity Project, which addresses disparities in tree coverage in underserved communities.
“Centennial Park has lost a number of trees in recent years due to disease and poor condition,” said Hartwig. “By working with these organizations, we have an opportunity to plant a diverse variety of trees and repopulate the canopy.”
This project was made possible thanks to the generous sponsor, Justice Outside. Their mission is to “advance racial justice and equity in the outdoor and environmental movement. We shift resources to build power with, and center the voices and leadership of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color because the health of current and future generations demands it.” More information can be found at www.justiceoutside.org.
