More than seven years after Hurricane Maria swept through Puerto Rico, the damage to local forests remains. In response to this ongoing need, 73 volunteers from the Church of God gathered for a large-scale tree planting in Luquillo. This event is part of the global Forest of Hope campaign, and was in collaboration with EcoCulture. The tree planting took place along the PR-3 highway at the Luquillo Experimental Forest, an important natural area still recovering from the storm.
Beyond just planting trees, the event promoted community spirit, education, and environmental care. Native species like molinillo, anonacia, and cayur were carefully chosen to help rebuild the local ecosystem. A total of 1,536 trees were planted, restoring the natural habitat for birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It also helps to reduce the risk of flooding and combat desertification.
Leaders Join Hands with Volunteers
Early in the event, Mario García, Project Coordinator of EcoCulture, encouraged and guided volunteers with clear direction and heartfelt motivation. Midway through the planting, Luquillo Mayor Hon. Jesús Gerardo Márquez arrived with Christian Rodríguez, Director of Public Works of the Municipality, and Ileana Carrasquillo, Public Relations Officer. Mayor Márquez shared his thanks and praised the Church of God’s commitment to building a better future.
At the close of the event, the Mayor and Mario García signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to affirm continued collaboration for future efforts. EcoCulture also presented a certificate of appreciation to the Church of God for its active role in protecting the environment and serving the local community. Mario García expressed his thanks by saying, “Thank you for your dedication, your energy, and your smiles.”
Planting Trees, Sowing Hope
This event was one of many taking place around the world as part of the Church of God’s environmental initiatives. The Forest of Hope campaign is joined by others like Erasing Plastic Footprints. These initiatives encourage citizen participation and care for the planet.
In a time when climate change and disconnection from nature affect communities everywhere, events like this show that healing is possible through love, unity, and action. Inspired by this experience, Church of God members in Puerto Rico plan to continue leading volunteer activities and supporting global efforts for sustainability.
To view more volunteer activities, please click here.
