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Planting The Seeds Of Change

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“If you really want to know what Middle-earth is based on it’s my wonder and delight in the earth as it is particularly the natural earth.” — J.R.R. Tolkien

Inspired to join the inhabitants of the Shire as stewards of forests and nature? You can make a difference in your community by protecting green spaces and planting trees. Chicago Shakespeare Theater is proud to amplify and uplift the sustainability work of these organizations:

OPENLANDS

Openlands protects the natural and open spaces of northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region to ensure cleaner air and water, protect natural habitats and wildlife, and help balance and enrich our lives. Through local alliances, forward vision, and persistent action, Openlands connects and leads conservation work, serving as a guiding voice for communities, organizations, and policy.

THE MORTON ARBORETUM

Known as “The Champion of Trees,” The Arboretum is an internationally recognized tree-focused botanical garden and research center. Its 1,700 acres of tree-filled landscapes are a place of enjoyment, a vibrant hub for nature education, and a world-renowned center for scientific research. Its vision is a greener, healthier, more beautiful world where people and trees thrive together.

THE GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY ALLIANCE (GPCA)

Based in one of the largest and most stunning conservatories in the nation, GPCA’s work is grounded in the belief that inspiring a love of nature, gardens, and natural areas is fundamentally important to the well-being of everyone. Their Urban Roots Teen Environmental Justice Program engages high-school students across the Westside as environmental agents of change.

LITTLE VILLAGE ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ORGANIZATION (LVEJO)

LVEJO organizes with the Little Village community to accomplish environmental justice and achieve the self-determination of immigrant, low-income, and working-class families. Their vision is to build a sustainable community that promotes the healthy development of youth and families, provides economic justice, and practices participatory democracy and self-determination.

OUR ROOTS CHICAGO

Joining 96 cities around the world, the City of Chicago has updated its Climate Action Plan to reflect the bold action needed to protect and strengthen communities. The goal is to plant 75,000 new trees, expanding the tree canopy in Chicago through an equitable approach to every neighborhood. Call 311 or use the CHI311 app to request parkway tree planting.