On Sunday, October 27, 2024, 65 volunteers from the International WeLoveU Foundation partnered with Manasquan Bank to plant 37 trees in Brick Township, New Jersey. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the volunteers planted various types of trees at Haven’s Farm. A few species included sweet bay magnolia, red maple, red cedar, black oak, and more. This tree-planting event was part of WeLoveU’s environmental campaign called the Mom’s Garden Project, which aims to plant one million trees by 2026 to achieve carbon neutrality and a greener Earth. WeLoveU volunteers carried out tree-planting activities in other parts of New Jersey as well. This marked the first time that WeLoveU partnered with Brick Township and Manasquan Bank.

Ready, Set, Plant!

Saira Ahmed, WeLoveU global partnership’s representative, commences the cleanup by providing encouragement for the volunteers. This was followed by Cameron Shapiro, the watershed ambassador for AmeriCorps, showing everyone the proper way to dig for and plant trees. Volunteers were then separated into five teams and sent off to accomplish the great task of planting trees throughout the immense property of the farm.  

Vincent Palmieri, the planning analyst of Brick Township, stated, “The intention here is to plant native species but also to have a fence on each tree to prevent weathering and deer (from harming the trees).” He also shared the history of Haven’s Farm with the volunteers. Brimming with joy, one group of volunteers dug, planted, and pulled out many weeds. Meanwhile, other groups worked on assembling and wrapping fences around trees to protect them from deer. Brick Township Board Secretary, Pamela O’Neill, remarked, “You can’t be green until you plant green.” She emphasized the notion that accomplishing a greener earth requires time, effort, and sacrifice. 

Community Support and Inspiration

As the event progressed, more guests joined, planting and watering trees. Excitedly, Dr. Pamela Monaco, President of Ocean County College, stated, “What is particularly notable to me is that, as volunteers, you are building upon what others have started. It is a whole teamwork (that reaches) beyond this team here….” This inspired everyone to work even harder to accomplish their collective goals.  

Garitt Tony Kono, Chairman of the Brick Township Environmental Commission, said, “It was such a terrific day to have the whole WeLoveU crew here. It was very inspiring to see everyone’s enthusiasm to help restore the natural environment. I would love to have you guys back!” Also, Buster, the mascot of Blue Claws Minor Leagues, came to encourage the crowd.

Overall, the event had a great turnout, and volunteers planted a total of 37 trees. Everyone worked harmoniously to renew the beauty and peace of Haven’s Farm.