To further promote tree-planting and reconnect New York City youth to the nature around them, NYRP has created and implemented several innovative environmental education programs, designed to engage schoolchildren of all ages. This programming includes NYRP’s hallmark RespecTree program – which, over the course of six classroom visits, involves students in the design, planting and stewardship of a greener schoolyard – as well as additional classroom-based exploration initiatives such as Talkin’ Trees school assemblies, 15 for Trees curricula and the Every Day is Arbor Day educator guide.
In addition, NYRP and the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation are lead partners in the MillionTreesNYC Training Program, designed to provide jobs to some of New York City’s most disadvantaged young adults, as well as to support the long-term maintenance and stewardship of trees newly planted under the MillionTreesNYC 10-year plan. NYRP also makes frequent presentations to community groups and is present at numerous and varied citywide events to promote and encourage citizen participation in MillionTreesNYC.