More than one way to plant a tree
Jen M. Harvey, Chief of Philanthropy
Acorns are future things. Inside is a complete kit to grow a tree through its first year — with water, soil and sunlight — a botanical package of hope. In 2021, with your help, we planted over 100 acres of acorns and trees to mark the Summit Metro Parks Centennial. There is deep joy in seeing a tree flourish over a lifetime, especially one you’ve had a hand in growing, and it’s my hope that each one of us can share in that experience. Trees provide for us too — with cleaner air and water, beauty and shade.
As a wizened gardener friend of mine once said, “Everyone should have their own patch of green, growing things to tend.” Chris Chaney, park biologist for Summit Metro Parks, pictured here, has led the effort to plant the 100 acres — even moving the tree nursery to his home for daily watering during the pandemic. And he will be a lead caretaker of the trees as they grow. Each of you is a caretaker as well because the parks belong to all of us.
We are now in the park district’s second century — from now until the year 2121 when the trees we have planted will reach their full potential, and our grandchildren are the caretakers of the parks. Now is a great time to consider that there is more than one way to plant a tree.
Donations to the Summit Metro Parks Foundation provide vital support for the parks. It’s a way you can figuratively “plant a tree.” Becoming a monthly recurring donor is a way to be a dependable caretaker of the parks and always be there for them. Choose an amount that’s right for you, set it up and your generosity will keep supporting the parks year-round. The Summit Metro Parks Foundation is easy to contact when you want to make a change. You can find the link to set up a monthly recurring donation and explore other giving options on the foundation’s website.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Summit Metro Parks Centennial and had a hand in planting 100 acres of trees — by following social media, volunteering, attending a program, completing the Centennial Tour, or being a donor — your community support has made it all possible.
For more stories like this, check out Green Islands Magazine, a bi-monthly publication from Summit Metro Parks. Summit County residents can sign up to receive the publication at home free of charge.
