Recovery Act Grants « California ReLeaf

Recovery Act Grants

California ReLeaf was selected by the US Forest Service in 2009 to administer $6 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) economic stimulus package to support 17 urban forestry projects statewide. Founded in 1989 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2004, California ReLeaf’s mission is to empower grassroots efforts and build strategic partnerships that preserve, protect, and enhance California’s urban and community forests.

The ARRA funds administered through the US Forest Service are a critical component of our mission. Continuing through 2012, these projects will result in more than 23,000 trees planted, and the creation or retention of more than 200 jobs, plus job training for scores of young people over the next two years. This next generation of California’s labor corps will be essential in sustaining and improving our state’s public infrastructure.

These urban forestry projects will provide physical, social, economic and environmental health benefits to California communities for years to come, with an emphasis on creating tomorrow’s workforce today.

2010-2011 California ReLeaf ARRA Grant

Jobs created/retained: 245

Trees Planted: 15,922

Trees Maintained: 30,642

Job Hours Contributed to California’s Work Force: 127,654

Lasting legacy: Once completed, this project will have provided critical training in the public works sector for young adults and at-risk youth while also creating a healthier, cleaner, and more livable environment for California residents and visitors.