On Saturday Hector and I volunteered with the Tree Musketeers in El Segundo, CA. A Fellow Street Tree Seminar member that works for the City of El Segundo introduced me to them. According to Tree Musketeers website they are the “nation’s first youth environmental organization–a nonprofit charity where kids are boss! While taking action to help the planet, kids teach other kids to become active citizens and community leaders.”

We “supervised” a group of 6 kids that didn’t need much supervision. Clearly not their first rodeo, two kids thoroughly explained the planting process and delegated duties to the newbies. I was blown away by their knowledge, the leadership they displayed and their ability to communicate effectively. For a minute I felt like dead weight but soon found my stride. Hector was on stake pounder duty.

After each tree was planted a pledge was recited. I don’t remeber the exact words but the jist was Mother Earth is our home and we promise to do our part to take care of her. Sound familiar?

Tree planting started at 9A and we were finished by noon; a super easy three hours. We were the only two non-parent volunteers. I encourage everyone to participate with Tree Musketeers or any similar organization. Show ‘em you care!

Interested? Email Amy at volunteers@treemusketeers.org.

PS, Veggie Grill has an El Segundo location. Get your grub on after you plant trees!