To ensure your goals remain relevant in the future – and to preserve your network of stakeholders – you may want to align with an anchor institution. Usually, these entities that have deep roots in your community and a visible commitment to equity. They can serve as the engine that drives the movement forward and provide the fuel for sustaining a strong urban forestry program, holding elected officials accountable, and advancing tree equity in your community.
Look for organizations that are
- Credible to residents, leaders and the city
- Trusted by stakeholders to pursue the goals set for the initiative
- Well-positioned to secure funding, provide staff support, and sustain collaborative action
- Likely to remain in place
- Open to incorporating trees into their mission, even if they are not the primary focus
These communities have all “anchored” themselves in organizations that meet all the criteria for credibility, trust, resources and longevity.
- New York City: New York Restoration Project
- Greater Washington, DC: Casey Trees
- Downtown Washington, DC: Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (BID)
- Greater Los Angeles: Amigos de Los Rios
- Indianapolis: Keep Indianapolis Beautiful
- Louisville: TreesLouisville
- Savannah, GA: Savannah Tree Foundation
- Detroit: The Greening of Detroit
While many people think of universities and hospitals when they think of anchor institutions, community initiatives are often anchored in entities as diverse as places of worship, sports teams, museums, libraries, school districts, frontline community organizations, municipalities and local public-private partnerships.
Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, IL aims to transform 32 acres of land into Imani Village – comprising more than 80 affordable single-family homes and 70 units of senior housing alongside an academic and educational center, a community space, an organic community garden, an agricultural center, a sports and wellness center, a retail center, a community health clinic, a boutique hotel and more.
Public/Private Partnerships
Many cities recognize the value of bringing most stakeholders – officials, residents and organizations – into a formal ongoing coalition. These enduring partnerships ensure tree equity goals are set and achieved.