On June 29, 2025, volunteers from the Church of God gathered at Stewart State Forest in New Windsor, NY, for a tree-planting event in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS-DEC). The event supported the Church’s global Forest of Hope Campaign and aligned with the United Nations’ World Environment Day and the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought.
Restoring Native Forests
Volunteers planted 300 native trees and shrubs provided by the NYS-DEC. The planting included white pines, oaks, maples, sycamores, and dogwoods. The planting took place on a former cornfield that was slowly being reclaimed by native forest, but invasive plants had begun to take over. By planting native trees, volunteers helped the forest grow back faster and healthier.
A Shared Goal for a Healthier Future
Assemblymember Chris Eachus visited the event and thanked the volunteers in person. He shared, “It’s very much a privilege for me to be here with you, because we all appreciate what you do here. You have just improved my district today… I want to thank you all for your efforts.”
Kelly Turturro, NYS-DEC’s Hudson Valley Regional Director, also praised the volunteers’ work: “Every tree planted benefits our climate by capturing carbon, supporting wildlife habitat, and strengthening flood resiliency.” This event also marked a milestone: the Church of God planted its 930th tree in New York State. Assemblymember Brian Maher presented a citation recognizing the achievement.
Many who joined weren’t members of the Church but came to support the cause. One guest, Natalie Ortiz, said, “Volunteering makes you feel good because you’re doing it for a good cause, and together, we can accomplish anything.”
Whether digging a hole, planting a tree, or simply showing up to help, each volunteer made a difference—not just for the forest, but for the future.
To view more volunteer events, please visit the activities page.
