As 2016 winds to a close, a new year looms on the horizon. Many think to New Year’s resolutions and how they can make 2017 a better year. While some might dream of losing weight, quitting smoking, or giving up some other bad habit, we prefer to adding something positive to the new year. One of the best ways you can make yourself and others happy is by giving back. Why not think about volunteering with an organization in need for your New Year’s resolution this year. Even better, be a green volunteer with a company that already gives back to the environment!

Green Volunteering

Organizations in London

ReForest London –

“ReForest London is a non-profit organization dedicated to partnering with our community to enhance environmental and human health in the Forest City, through the benefits of trees.”

Through empowerment, ecosystem health, and education, ReForest London is working to re-green London, Ontario. They welcome volunteers in several capacities, whether you want to get your hands dirty planting trees, or prefer to make a difference behind the scenes as a Committee member planning and organizing. Here are some of the ways you can help;

Thames Valley Trails Association –

“The TVTA is a charity that relies on donations and thousands of member volunteer hours to develop & maintain over 110 KM of public trails and organizes more than 300 hikes and walks a year.”

The Thames Valley Trails Association works on the ground to keep our forests accessible. For those who enjoy a walk in the woods, this organization is for you. They need volunteers to fill many positions, including;

Upper Thames River Conservation Authority –

“The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority is one of 36 Conservation Authorities in the Province of Ontario, Canada. Our area of jurisdiction, the upper watershed of the Thames River, covers 3,432 square kilometres in southwestern Ontario and is home to approximately 485,000 people. The Thames is a Canadian Heritage River.”

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority is charged with protecting waterways, woodlands, wetlands, and natural habitats along the Thames River. Through education, respect, and enjoyment they do just that, but are always in need of help. Some of the ways you can volunteer;

• Tree Planting
• Trail Maintenance
• Monitoring
• Bioengineering
• Help during spring clean-up days

Organizations In Canada

Forests Ontario – 

“At Forests Ontario, we’re dedicated to making Ontario’s forests greener. Our ambitious tree planting initiatives, extensive education programs, and decades of community outreach have helped plant millions of trees in the province each year—and it’s through these efforts that we’re bringing our vision for healthier forests to a new generation of stewards, partners, teachers, and donors.”

Through extensive forest education, tree planting and maintenance initiatives, and plenty of Community Outreach programs, Forests Ontario is working to make Ontario’s forests greener. Depending upon your skill and interest level there are many ways you can help. Here are just a few of them;

1. Tree Planting
2. Seed Forecaster
3. Office help
4. Help organize a local event

Tree Canada –

“For 25 years, Tree Canada has engaged communities, governments, corporations, and individuals in the pursuit of a greener and healthier living environment for Canadians.”

Canada is the second largest country in the world, and it is our responsibility to protect every inch of it. We are made up of communities and all of them benefit from a rejuvenation of rural and urban trees. Tree Canada’s mission is to do that via education, technical expertise, and resources to help plant and care for Canada’s trees. There are lots of ways to help;

Are there other organizations you could volunteer for which help the environment and your community? Share your best ideas with us!