About us

Who We Are

At We Plant it Forward, nature brings us together and guides our work. By observing nature, we seek to understand how best to be stewards of the Earth and to live in harmony with nature to restore and preserve the environment.

Two women and a man stand around a newly planted tree sapling, their hands stacked as they smile at the camera.

Our mission

To empower our Community to plant, advocate and care for a vibrant, native tree canopy for all.

Our vision

A sustainable and equitable future where every neighborhood in the Triangle thrives under a robust urban forest, created and stewarded by an active, empowered community.

Download our Strategic Plan

Learn how we plan to shape the future. Our 2025–2030 Strategic Plan outlines the goals and initiatives that will guide our work over the next five years.

Our values

Our values guide everything we do—shaping our mission, our actions, and our impact. These are the principles we aspire to and the steps we take to achieve a healthier, more sustainable world.


Photograph of volunteers posing for a group photo, all wearing safety vests.

Grow community

1.

We believe that everyone belongs under a thriving tree canopy.

  1. A place for everyone: We work to make sure every neighborhood has trees. We focus on "tree equity" so that every person, no matter where they live, can enjoy a healthy canopy.

  2. Working together: We don’t do this alone. We share our tools and knowledge so that neighbors can lead the way in caring for trees in their own local parks and streets.

Photograph of volunteers working behind a leafy branch.

Cultivate canopy

2.

We use nature’s wisdom and real science to get results.

  1. Always learning: We study the latest science and listen to what nature tells us. This helps us make the best choices for our soil and our trees.

  2. Respect for nature and communities: We treat the land and our local neighborhoods with care. We make sure our work meets the needs of communities and helps the earth stay healthy and balanced.

  3. Smart planting and care: We don't just plant trees, we promote biodiversity. We plant the right native trees in the right places, with the right maintenance care plan so they can grow strong for years to come.

Photograph of Raleigh behind a tree line.

Sustain the movement

3.

We’re in this for the long haul.

  1. Championing change: We’re bold voices for trees. We talk to leaders and advocate for rules that protect our urban forests.

  2. Thinking ahead: We don’t just look at next year; we look at the next fifty years. We work hard to find the funding and community support needed to keep this movement growing.

  3. Hope in action: We’re positive about the future. Working hard today will lead to a cooler, healthier world for the next generation.


Have any questions or comments about our mission, vision, or values?

We would love to hear from you!

Make a donation today

Your support helps us accomplish our mission to empower our community to plant, advocate and care for a vibrant, native tree canopy for all.