SCOTT CREDIT UNION COMMEMORATES 80 YEARS WITH REGIONWIDE TREE PLANTING

As part of their 80th Anniversary celebrations, Scott Credit Union embarked on an ambitious initiative to plant trees across the region. Partnering with HLC, Scott Credit Union joined forces with local communities to make a lasting impact on the environment.

The initial idea took shape when Scott Credit Union approached HLC at the beginning of 2023, expressing their desire to contribute to the community by planting trees. Recognizing the value of urban forestry and the need for tree replacements in various areas, HLC transformed this idea into a tangible endeavor with the help of its urban forestry program and numerous community partnerships. The response from community partners was overwhelmingly positive, as they eagerly embraced the opportunity to receive free trees and benefit from the labor provided to plant them. The selected planting locations included Belk Park Golf Course in Wood River, William C. Drda Woods in Edwardsville, Willoughby Heritage

Farm in Collinsville, and Rock Springs Park in O’Fallon.

Scott Credit Union rallied volunteers, who enthusiastically participated in tree planting activities at the designated locations. To ensure the success of these endeavors, HeartLands Conservancy’s Tree Stewards stepped up to guide and support the volunteers. Equipped with extensive training in tree care, each Tree Steward led groups of two to four Scott Credit Union volunteers, imparting their knowledge of proper tree planting techniques.

Scott Credit Union volunteers brought their exceptional work ethic and infectious positivity to the week long tree planting events. Amid laughter and conversations, participants reveled in the remarkable weather, with some even taking the liberty of naming the trees they planted. This project not only made an immediate impact on the environment but also fostered meaningful interactions between Scott Credit Union volunteers, community volunteers, and the surrounding communities. Participants were deeply motivated to contribute to this unique endeavor. One volunteer, Jessica, shared her reason for participating, stating, “I wanted to actively engage in the anniversary celebrations and give back to the community. Planting trees seemed like the perfect way to make a lasting impact on the environment and future generations.”

Another dedicated volunteer, Sam, expressed his sentiments, saying, “I joined this tree planting initiative because I believe in the power of collective action. By working together, we can create positive change in our communities and leave a legacy. Scott Credit Union’s commitment to this project inspired me to get involved and be part of something meaningful.”

Behind the scenes of each of these events are those who helped coordinate tree deliveries, provided tools and equipment, and worked alongside Scott Credit Union and HeartLands Conservancy volunteers. Without the unwavering support of these community partnerships, these anniversary plantings would not have been possible, nor as successful.

City staff members who were instrumental in this endeavor include Director of Parks and Recreation, Jason Woody, who dedicated 5 hours in Wood River; Director Nate Tingley and P&R Staff, contributing 6 hours in Edwardsville; P&R Erik Schuyler and Mike Siebert, devoting 6 hours in O‘Fallon; and Farm Staff members Devin Moore, Bobbie Sue Hill, and Carol Ferker, who collectively invested 10 hours in Collinsville.