Atherton’s National Honor Society worked alongside Louisville Grows Reforestation Program to help rebuild the tree canopy within Louisville’s community.

Louisville Grows is a non profit organization that partners with community members and volunteers. The organization plants and cares for trees that will bring natural beauty back to neighborhoods. Their goal is to grow sustainable living spaces by promoting urban gardening and advancing health equity.

“Our work daily increases both our knowledge of tree species and our curiosity of the natural world,” Louisville Grows manager, Ellie Davenport said.

A major goal of the National Honors Society is to make a difference within Louisville’s community. Louisville has one of the fastest growing urban heat island effects in the nation and the National Honor’s Society collaboration with Louisville Grows worked to combat this.

With the help of the Louisville Grows team, the National Honor Society learned how to plant trees and create woodlands that will support biodiversity and connect habitats around the waterfront.

Izzy Cummins (11) left this experience with new ways to make a positive impact throughout the community itself.

“It connected students and taught us ways to help the environment on our own,” Cummins said.

Amy Carrico (11) was inspired by the experience because she was allowed to form her own opinions and perspectives.

“I loved getting to learn how to plant and having the room to make my own interpretations,” said Carrico.

This is the first time the National Honor’s Society volunteered with Louisville Grows and it motivated many students to further contribute to their natural environment. Louisville Grows gives everyone the opportunity to gather and make a change that will enhance the quality of life for many.