TreeLink: An "Expanding Canopy" of Urban and Community Forestry Knowledge (01-DG-11046000-041)

This project was created to expand knowledge about urban and community forestry through accessible community resources.

TreeLink's vision is to create an "Expanding Canopy" of knowledge about Urban and Community Forestry by reaching into widespread community roots with potent, accessible communications resources. While TreeLink is the most comprehensive U&CF website, the concept of U&CF is not yet well known. With this two-year project, TreeLink has provided new, interactive resources tailored to four target audiences — academic institutions, green industry and government land agencies, nonprofit U&CF organizations, and the general public. We have the knowledge to plan cities that are both environmentally and economically sustainable. Internet technology allows us to share that knowledge with every small town in this country. TreeLink provides that tool for Urban and Community Forestry, within reach to traditional resources and outreach to the widest possible audience. All can benefit from networking, research, community building and education outreach to expand name recognition and participation in the movement and discipline of Urban and Community Forestry. In 2003, TreeLink won three national awards: the Global ReLeaf Award for Organizational Achievement; the National Arbor Day Award and the (USDA) Chief's Award for Excellence in Technology Transfer. TreeLink currently reaches more than 70 nations in 12 languages.

Project Objectives:

Objective #1— Provide a comprehensive research database and one-stop shopping for U&CF.

Objective #2 — Resources for nonprofit organizational development. We will produce and link to resources for U&CF nonprofits on organizational management and development, including fund raising; staff development; volunteer and event coordination; how to use "virtual volunteers;" and a national, interactive way to match volunteers and U&CF opportunities.

Objective #3 — Resources for improved networking and communication. We will produce resources for community building and networking among local and national U&CF advocates and would-be advocates.

Objective #4 -- Public education and awareness. We will increase recognition of the U&CF movement among the general public, helping them become more informed about U&CF issues and more inspired to get involved in "hands-on" activities in their community.

Attachments

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