Better Block Structures and Pop-up Park

One of the organizations I became a fan of in Dallas was The Better Block, “a 501(c)3 nonprofit that educates, equips, and empowers communities and their leaders to reshape and reactivate built environments to promote the growth of healthy and vibrant neighborhoods.”

What attracted me to this organization was their guerilla-style local community impact, its architectural applications, and how it shared unlimited creativity similar to 3D printing. One of Better Block’s tenants is placemaking and when you can build a sense of community out of a barren parking lot – it’s truly the definition of placemaking!

It’s a special organization that I want to highlight, in hopes that it can inspire you and other in your community.

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Musical Celebrations for Tree Plantings

There were many different types of tree planting celebrations. A lot of which involved golden shovels for sponsors and photo opps! However, music was always a key theme at our events. We had a speaker setup at most events to use as a PA system, but also plugged in music for occasional events. Many of these celebrations also had local students perform as part of the ceremonies.

Below is a compilation of sped-up clips showing students performing or singing along for you to enjoy!

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Mulchkins at Tree Plantings

One of the fun parts about the Cool Schools tree plantings were the younger students who came out to put mulch rings around the freshly planted trees. I nicknamed these kids “Mulchkins,” combining mulch and munchkins together. Hearing them scream in joy and running around spilling mulch everywhere was certainly a sight to see.

I made a compilation video of different mulchkin groups running around at tree plantings for you to enjoy!

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Master List of Texas Trees Work

Below you’ll find a list of hyperlinked blog posts showcasing the projects I was a part of while at the Texas Trees Foundation. I’ve put them into categories to better highlight the specific projects.

Media Coverage

Secured this remote news interview after the North Texas severe weather season.
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Texas Trees Foundation – Marketing Associate

After returning from Oregon and eco-adventuring around Texas, I got a job as the Marketing and Communications Associate at the Texas Trees Foundation in early September 2018. Texas Trees, an urban forestry nonprofit focused on urban trees in North Central Texas, felt like a natural transition from my return from Oregon — continuing on the path of environmentalism and sustainability, in a place I’m familiar with.

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Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

After the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, I went  into the Dallas Arboretum. It had been many years since I had been to the Dallas Arboretum, so a lot has changed — yet remained the same. This is truly a beautiful destinations not only for tourists, but also locals to enjoy the outdoors, walk among the various plant collections, see the seasonal exhibits, and attend various musical and theatrical events hosted throughout the year.

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