Address Funder Needs, Not Just Your Own
At the outset, tree equity may seem abstract to potential funders and allies. Your challenge? Determine what matters to them — and then demonstrate how tree equity initiatives can help achieve their goals.
Goals Can Differ Widely
Some businesses are simply looking for volunteer activities that could engage their employees. Others may show a commitment to child health, or outdoor recreation. From corporations to community foundations, most potential donors pursue goals that can be advanced through tree equity.
Sell Benefits, Not Trees
Focusing on impacts and outcomes for your community can deepen donor interest and lead to sustained support for similar projects.
Where Trees Can Work in Your Community
- Improved Health Outcomes: Access to trees and green spaces is linked to better physical and mental health. Studies show that communities with more trees experience lower rates of respiratory issues, stress, and mental health problems.
- Climate Resilience: Urban trees help mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing urban heat islands, lowering temperatures, and managing stormwater runoff. This is particularly important in disadvantaged communities that are more vulnerable to extreme weather events.
- Equity and Social Justice: Many foundations aim to address disparities in tree cover and green space access. Lower-income and communities of color often have significantly less tree cover, leading to higher temperatures and poorer air quality. Funding urban forestry projects helps promote environmental justice and equity.
- Economic Inequity: Urban forestry projects can stimulate local economies by creating jobs in tree planting, maintenance, and related activities. They also attract investments and can increase property values.
- Crime Reduction: There is evidence that greener neighborhoods experience lower crime rates. Trees and well-maintained green spaces can foster a sense of community and deter criminal activity.
- Community Engagement: These projects often involve local communities in planning and implementation, fostering a sense of ownership and stewardship. This can strengthen community bonds and encourage civic participation.