Sacramento residents looking to give back to their community — and enjoy some fresh air — have several opportunities this winter through the City’s Youth, Parks & Community Enrichment Department (YPCE).

YPCE’s Volunteer in Parks (VIP) program is hosting a series of tree plantings and park beautification events across the city, inviting volunteers of all experience levels to help make Sacramento greener and healthier.

All tree planting events run from 9 a.m. to noon and take place rain or shine.

Research shows that volunteering outdoors can boost mood, reduce stress and strengthen community connections. Tree planting, in particular, improves neighborhood health, helps cool the city and creates lasting environmental benefits.

“From first-time volunteers to longtime helpers, everyone belongs here,” said Sarah Musser, YPCE park maintenance superintendent. “Even a few hours can make a lasting difference.”

Upcoming tree planting events are scheduled at parks throughout Sacramento:

• Jan. 31 — Swainson’s Hawk Park, 150 Lentini Way
• Feb. 7  — Leslie Wood Park, 6755 Bodine Circle
• Feb. 14 — Elderberry Park, 2850 Macon Drive
• Feb. 21  — Gardenland Park, 201 Bowman Ave.
• March 7 — Tahoe Park, 3501 59th St.
• March 14 — Edward Kemble Park, 3065 Loma Verde Way

Volunteers are asked to bring work gloves, closed-toe shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing they don’t mind getting dirty.

All tools and supplies are provided by YPCE. The events at Leslie Wood Park, Gardenland Park, and Edward Kemble Park are part of Sacramento’s Equitable Urban Forest project, which is funded by an Urban and Community Forestry grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service in partnership with GreenLatinos.

The trees and stake for all other events are supplied through partnerships with SMUD and the Sacramento Tree Foundation

More information and a full list of upcoming events can be found on the City’s website.