THE LEAFLET

Happy early New Year from Casey Trees! As we reflect on 2023 as it comes to a close, we want to thank everyone who came out to our events this year. Whether you got muddy planting trees in the spring rain, pulled invasive species in the hot summer heat, increased your tree knowledge at our walks and talks in the fall, or joined us from home virtually, thank you for making this year so special! We hope you have a warm and happy holiday season, and we’re looking forward to seeing you in the new year.

Remember, when you make a year-end gift to Casey Trees of $50 or more, you become a Casey Trees member and receive several exclusive benefits – including monthly opportunities to sign up for our events before the general public. If you were a member, you’d already be able to sign up for any of the events below!

Here are a few opportunities to volunteer, learn, or just see us out-and-about in January:

Monday, January 15th – SCA MLK Day of Service – Tree Care at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults. Volunteers from throughout the capital region area will remember Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by staging a massive clean-up at one of the most biodiverse natural areas in Washington, DC, at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. We are excited to join the SCA at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens where SCA volunteers planted trees with President Obama and other Cabinet Members in 2009. This service event will transform a crucial community greenspace while promoting the connections between social and environmental justice.

Thursday, January 18th – Nights at the Round Table: Conversations about Environmental Justice at The Capital Jewish Museum

Ticket sales begin December 22nd

Drawing on the values of the holiday Tu B’Shvat, “Jewish Arbor Day,” this Nights at the Round Table will explore environmental justice. Hear from a panel of speakers working locally for equal access to natural resources and equal protection from pollution. Then join the discussion and develop tools to take action over a shared meal. Dinner features dishes inspired by foods traditionally eaten during a Tu B’Shvat seder. Panelists include Rhonda Hamilton, Dr. Janet Phoenix, and Brenda Lee Richardson, moderated by Dahlia Rockowitz.

January 24th – January 28th – Nature Forward Presents: Naturally Latinos Conference

Nature Forward is excited to present the 2024 Naturally Latinos Conference. Themed “Perteneciendo: Nuestras Raíces, Nuestra Tierra (Belonging: Our Roots, Our Earth),” this multi-media experience will offer virtual (Wednesday and Thursday) and in-person (Friday) dialogue, presentations and performances focused on the needs and interests of Latin environmental professionals, environmental justice advocates, educators, and nature enthusiasts.

Friday, January 26th – Tree Care at Elesavetgrad Cemetery

Join us at Elesavetgrad Cemetery to help Casey Trees care for young trees! Your help with weeding, mulching and watering these vulnerable trees will give them a leg up in becoming an important part of our growing tree canopy. We will provide all the necessary tools and supplies to care for trees. Participants will receive a short, hands-on training on site. After learning the tools and techniques, participants will split up into groups and begin caring for trees throughout the park.