THE SOIL SOLDIERS PROGRAM
At Recycle & Reinvest, we are dedicated to empowering justice impacted youth through sustainable jobs. We understand that many individuals in our community face barriers to employment and we want to be a part of the solution. Our team is passionate about creating a safe and nurturing work environment where youth can develop important job skills and feel a sense of purpose. By participating in our program, youth will not only gain valuable work experience, but they will also learn the importance of sustainability and environmental justice.
Candice "Goldie" Evans
PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Email:
BIO
Meet Goldie, an enthusiastic resident of South Nashville, Tennessee, who shares an incredible bond with nature and a passion for environmental stewardship! Since 2019, she has been diving headfirst into community volunteering, making a real impact and spreading positivity. Now, as the program coordinator for the Soil Soldier program, Goldie is at the forefront of exciting initiatives that promote Urban Forestry workforce development and vibrant community engagement. Her dedication inspires everyone around her to join in the adventure of protecting and enhancing our beautiful environment!
SOIL SOLDIER TESTIMONY
ORDER FREE TREES HERE
Are you looking to enhance your community and support youth in need? Recycle and Reinvest is offering free trees to individuals who are passionate about environmental conservation and empowering young people.
These trees will be planted by youth from underserved communities and those affected by the justice system, providing them with valuable skills and opportunities for personal growth.
THE SOIL SOLDIERS PROGRAM TIMELINE
JUNE
- Recruit and Interview Youth interested in a job position.
- Conduct initial meetings with authorities and staff from the juvenile detention center to outline the project's objectives, benefits, and logistics.
- Conduct training sessions for mentors/volunteers to educate them about the importance of tree planting, proper planting techniques, and engaging with youth from the detention center.
- Develop a schedule for regular tree-planting activities over the next several months.
JULY
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Engage participating youth in regular maintenance and care activities for previously planted trees.
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Healthy Soil testing activity
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Mock Tree Planting - Adults
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Environmental Stewardship activity
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Identify Planting area
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Organize guest speaker sessions focusing on environmental conservation and the long-term impact of tree-planting efforts.
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Arrange a community-based tree distribution event where the youth actively participate and contribute their skills.
AUGUST
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Collaborate with local schools or organizations to host educational sessions on the benefits of tree planting and conservation.
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Mapping/Breaking
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Lead a call bank
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Introduction / Follow Up Email
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Plan and carry out a tree planting event in a public area, highlighting the accomplishments of the youth participants to the broader community.
OCTOBER
• Host a celebratory event to recognize the achievements and growth of the youth participants throughout the year-long program. ( B.4.L - EJF)
• PLANT TREES
• Engage the youth in documenting their experiences and successes through photographs, videos, or written testimonials to showcase the program's outcomes.
THE SOIL SOLDIER GALLERY
YOUTH APPLY HERE
Join us in creating a safer and more beautiful community through our Soil Soldier Program. Our work not only promotes sustainability and environmental awareness but creates green spaces that inspire positivity and interrupt violence. We invite youth ages 12-18 to join us in this important work, and make a tangible impact on their community.
LET'S TAKE ACTION
VOLUNTEERS APPLY HERE
Our volunteers are the backbone of Youth Jobs for Justice Impacted Youth. Without their dedication and hard work, we wouldn't be able to make the impact that we do. If you're looking for a chance to make a meaningful difference in your community, we'd love to hear from you. Join us in our mission to create a better world, one tree at a time!