Participants of all ages gathered to plant trees for the Rotary Club of Stratford’s 100th anniversary.
Members joined the environmental committee on Saturday to plant trees at the TJ Dolan Natural Area and Dufferin Park.
All ages helped: children, high school students, parents and members of the Rotary worked together.
Clara Nascu, 16, joined in with a friend to replenish the natural area by planting native trees.
“We have some people who know more than others, which is great because they are educating others."
Nascu has not planted many trees, she said, but learned on Saturday that you have to separate the roots a little before planting.
As a frequent walker of the TJ Dolan Natural Area, she said the tree planting is essential to preserving the beloved natural area.
“I live nearby and I love walking through here in the summer — it is one of those great experiences that you take for granted. It is really important to keep this place looking great and looking green,” she said.
“It is a great thing to do with the community. It is lovely to be able to help out,” she added.
Ken Nesbitt, president of the Rotary Club of Stratford, said the original plan of 100 trees turned into an impressive 150 trees.
The Rotary Club has a long list of events and initiatives to give back to the community for their 100th anniversary. The 'Rotary Cares 100' initiative focuses on seven unique ways to give back to the community.
“We decided for each of these to raise money and donate to various causes. We provided 100 personal hygiene kits to the shelters in Stratford, we sent $2,000 to an international funding organization to help families in Ukraine. There are Ukrainian families being relocated to Stratford, so we are going to be donating funds to help with their relocation,” said Nesbitt.
The club is also providing scholarships to students attending University of Waterloo Stratford campus. Other focuses of the club include recreational facilities, healthcare facilities, clean water, international community development, clean water and environment.
The organization celebrated the century anniversary with a 200-person gala dinner on May 6.
