CANOPY BLOG

Celebrating the Power of Trees

By Canopy Team on April 15, 2024

*Power of Trees guests raising auction paddles in support of Canopy’s urban forestry work. Photo by Jack Owicki.*

On April 14, over 200 urban forestry enthusiasts joined Canopy to celebrate the Power of Trees at Mitchell Community Center. Canopy transformed Mitchell Community Center into a series of tree groves featuring native, shade, street and fruit trees. Our enthusiastic urban forestry supporters mingled amongst the groves, learning about the incredible benefits of the different trees. The celebration was a reminder that it is truly the power of people and trees that creates meaningful impact.

As JP mentioned at the event, throughout history, trees have been agents of change, catalysts for progress, and symbols of hope. They remind us that we have more in common than what sets us apart. They provide us shade on hot days, filter pollutants from the air we breathe, and offer sanctuary to countless species of flora and fauna. They act as natural buffers against extreme weather, mitigate flooding, and stabilize soil – helping communities withstand the impacts of our changed climate. However, Canopy can’t harness the power of trees without our community. It is crucial that we involve community members and decision-makers in the process of identifying, planting and stewarding the right tree in the right place.

At the end of the event, Canopy hosted an auction for community members to invest in our urban forests. Thanks to the support of our sponsors and donors, we were successful in our $200,000 fundraising goal! The sea of raised auction paddles made Canopy incredibly happy, and we are so grateful for everyone who supports our mission and work.

Jack Owicki of Pro Bono Photo captured the event in wonderful photographs. The photos are shared on our Canopy Flickr page. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do! And if you couldn’t make it, feel free to take a look!

Power of Trees Flickr Album

Canopy must thank a few folks who worked tirelessly behind the scenes and in front of the crowd helping to make the day possible: Mike Kasperzak and Peying Lee, our terrific emcees; Frank Floyd, our wonderful video producer and tech support; the team at Summerwinds Nursery; and Ian Bothwick, our designated registered beverage server.

We thank everyone for sharing in our celebration and look forward to continuing the collaboration with all of you to transform the Midpeninsula!