Inspired to take care of street trees? Do you have a specific project in mind?
Are you looking for in-depth training and support? Want to meet, network, and learn with a dynamic group of dedicated volunteers?
Don’t miss this unique, exciting opportunity. Apply to Partnerships Academy today!
Partnerships Academy: Street Tree Stewardship is a free fellowship program that supports community-based parks groups and individual volunteers to achieve sustainable success through in-depth project and group development. Fellows learn new skills, network and share best practices, hear from experienced resource speakers, and are eligible for a selective mini-grants program. All sessions are tailored to fit the unique needs of street tree stewards.
At Partnerships for Parks, we define street tree stewardship as (1) regular, ongoing street tree care and (2) awareness-raising about the importance of street trees and/or street tree care.
Session topics include defining goals; developing an action plan; approaching and pitching to potential partners; street tree bed aesthetics and signage design; and educating about street trees.
After completing the yearlong Academy program, fellows will receive exclusive access to future events and workshops and will become part of an ever-growing network of dedicated community leaders.
Examples of potential projects:*
"Partnerships Academy has given us the chance to refine our project goals and has prepared us for successful implementation of the project. Learning how to craft our message to build support and how to beautify tree beds with plants that support the growth of healthy street trees are new skills that we will put to good use for our project. We especially enjoy the opportunity to connect with other New Yorkers who are working to care for the urban forest in their own communities. There is so much to learn and appreciate about the work that is being done all over the city, by the Parks Department and by our fellow Academy participants."
"Receiving the insight and support of Channaly has been the most helpful aspect of the PFP Academy. Having this mentor relationship to buoy me through the creative process of ironing out my ideas and honing my goals has been the most fruitful experience. Also, its been imperative for me to have a direct contact in the Parks Dept. who can act as a resource for other contacts and connections that can potentially support me in reaching my goals and making a difference in our city."
"The Partnerships Academy has been a fantastic learning and networking experience. More than anything else, I’ve really enjoyed meeting new street tree stewards from other parts of the city. Everyone has been coming up with interesting and innovative ideas for promoting tree care, and I’m really glad to have had the opportunity to learn from the other participants. The Academy has also been a great outlet for information on street tree care and support from other organizations."
See complete guidelines for Partnership Academy: Street Tree Stewardship.
The application cycle for the upcoming 2009–10 Partnerships Academy: Street Tree Stewardship session is now closed. Please check back in the spring of 2010 for the 2010–11 Academy application. If you would like more information about the Academy and/or want to be included on an email list for updates, please contact Channaly Philipp at channaly.philipp@parks.nyc.gov or (212) 676-1929.
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