The NAACP Greater Grand Rapids Environmental Justice Committee and Friends of Grand Rapids Parks are organizing Neighborwoods 2026, an initiative to plant 200 trees in the Garfield Park area in late September.
The Community Collaboration on Climate Change or C4 is also a partner.
Executive Director Kareem Scales says stipends will be paid for two-hour volunteer shifts to residents from the city’s most underserved areas.
“49507 and 49503 specifically have been where the data shows are the two most disproportionately impacted communities here in Grand Rapids by environmental and climate justice issues. And I'm sure it's not surprising to also say that is predominantly where the majority of people of color reside in the city as well.”
Scales notes planting trees is about more than beautification.
Tree density affects air quality, home cooling costs, and stormwater drainage.
“Communities that have a higher tree density have higher housing values. Even things related to public safety. We've learned that some of our law enforcement agencies utilize data that shows communities that have a higher tree density are quote unquote safer.”
Eligible participants include residents throughout the entire 49507 ZIP code and eligible southwest portions of 49503, including: Garfield Park • Boston Square • Oakdale • MLK Park • Alger Heights • Baxter • Burton Heights • Roosevelt Park, including Black Hills
Register for Neighborwoods 2026
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