Green Force

Program Name: Green Force

Program Summary: Green Force is a connected group of young volunteers working to improve Iowa’s environment. Trees Forever supports their environmental service by connecting them to Trees Forever programs, local Trees Forever affiliate groups, and each other. The Green Force program also helps Trees Forever affiliate groups to develop their capacity to effectively involve youth in their volunteer efforts.

Who is eligible to participate? Green Force members range in age from 11 to 25 years old, but community groups interested in engaging more youth in their programs can also get involved with the Green Force program.

What are the goals of this program? Green Force members will become future environmental leaders, either as professionals or volunteers. Through their involvement in Green Force, they will gain valuable technical, leadership and administrative skills and develop long-term connections with Trees Forever, affiliate community groups, and other Green Force members. Green Force members will also provide local environmental groups with new energy and creativity and the next generation of leadership.

What assistance or services are provided through this program? Through our Facebook site (currently in development) and communication network, young people can learn about opportunities to get involved with Trees Forever projects and programs, and can connect with other young people interested in the environment. Community groups interested in involving young people in their environmental projects can receive training and resources from Trees Forever on ways to effectively engage youth. As the program develops, Trees Forever hopes to offer additional resources to youth and community groups.

What is the application deadline? There is no application process for the Green Force program. Young people and community groups who are interested in getting involved can contact Karen Brook at kbrook@treesforever.org or 800-369-1269 ext. 14 for more information. In the spring of 2010, existing Trees Forever groups will be asked to complete youth involvement surveys. These surveys, along with youth focus groups, will help Trees Forever to develop program materials that meet the needs of our youth and community groups.

Who sponsors this program? Sponsors for Green Force include the Iowa Living Roadway Trust Fund, Rockwell Collins, and the REAP-Conservation Education Program.