Clubhouse

Planting project’s impact tree-mendous

Anyone who doubts the positive impact one club can have on its community is barking up the wrong tree. The Capilano, West Vancouver, British Columbia, Kiwanis club, through its “Tribute Trees” program (“Memorial Program Takes Root,” August 2003), has planted more than 100 trees and funneled more than CAN$150,000 into the community.

“Tree hugger” John Howell is flanked by West Vancouver Mayor Pam Goldsmith-Jones on the left, and Corinne Ambor of the West Vancouver Parks Department. (Photo credit: Mike Wakefield, North Shore News)

The seeds of the program were sown in 2000, when then-president John Howell saw a need for a new fundraiser to help the club with its work in the community. Under the program, when an individual donates $1,500 to the club, the donor selects a location for the tree, the species of the tree, and the inscription for a plaque. The tree is then planted and maintained by the parks department.

Half the donation goes to the parks department, while the rest goes to the club.

“Our partnership with Kiwanis has value on at least three levels,” notes Corrine Ambor of the parks department. “For starters, half the donation goes back to support good causes in our community. Value also comes from the relationships being formed between the Kiwanis club, our staff, and the community. The community also benefits not only from the trees being planted in various locations, but also from the additional opportunity to make donations to our parks.