Hello Friends of LVEJO,

We are proud to announce the release of

"its about more than trees"
engaging uninvolved communities in urban forestry

by Colleen Carroll, Ed.D.
Nature Talks Publishing, Kauai, Hawaii

Engaging Uninvolved Communities in Urban Forestry is an exploratory study about the involvement of diverse groups in local greening efforts. The project was supported by the USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program on the recommendation of the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council, Nature Talks, an Environmental Education Organization, approached this study with the aim of learning what motivates minority and undeserved individuals and communities to get involved in urban greening projects. The interview strategy involved locating and visiting existing urban greening projects with minority and undeserved participants. Projects were selected based on success, diversity, geographic range, and accessibility. Nearly 30 projects were visited across the United Stated in eight states. Twenty of these sites were featured in this book. Though the settings and social issues at the project sites vary, they have one thing in common: urban greening was used as a catalyst to improve the living situations for minority and undeserved communities. Program leaders use plants to help resolve social issues ranging from individuals growing healthy economical food in their backyards to communities striving for environmental justice, clean air and soil, safer neighborhoods, or open space to play in. Other efforts involve perpetuating the values and traditions of native cultures, creating places of beauty in low-income neighborhoods, and cultivating communities of peace.

LVEJO and it's volunteers were highlighted under environmental justice and the community gardens that have been a proud part of the work with Little Village. We invite you to please contact Colleen Carroll, Director of NatureTalks for more information. Additional copies are available at an introductory price of $19.95 plus tax and shipping. Email NatureTalks@gmail.com or write NatureTalks, P.O. Box 1094, Kalaheo, HI 96741 or stop by LVEJO's office to view a copy.

LVEJO and the volunteers would like to thank Tom Dilley for making this collaboration possible
and Colleen Carroll, Ed.D. for choosing LVEJO to be a part of this amazing book.

LVEJO Gardening Book Mention

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LVEJO Holiday Volunteer Party
click on any image for the full sized images

LVEJO continued its yearly tradition in 2006 by hosting its annual Holiday Volunteer Party!
Over 50 community members, families, youth and children shared in food, music, preseents and games.
Much of the food and toys were donated by local businesses and LVEJO Funders.

Participatns in LVEJO Campaigns recieved certificates of Excellence and Gift Baskets for there hard work.
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LVEJO Volunteer recieved the 1st Annual Organizer of the Year Award (below right).
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