On Thursday, April 6,2023 the LA Clippers and partners, Intuit and Aspiration, hosted a tree planting event held at Edward Vincent Jr. Park to kick-off the planting of 1,000 trees (350 have been planted so far) in Inglewood ahead of the opening of the Clippers new home, Intuit Dome, in 2024. This represents the three organizations’ shared commitment to giving back to the local community by making sustainable choices. These trees will provide shade, capture carbon, and improve water and air quality in Intuit Dome’s community.
In attendance, Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts and City Council Members were accompanied by Clippers Alumni and Inglewood native Craig Smith. Volunteers consisted of Inglewood residents, business owners and local organizations, like the Inglewood Airport Area Chamber of Commerce, 40 Love Foundation and Homelight Family Living. The event kicked off with an opening ceremony where representatives from the Clippers and Tree People delivered speeches highlighting the importance of tree planting in mitigating climate change, improving air quality, and enhancing the overall well-being of the community. The Clippers, known for their commitment to sustainability initiatives, emphasized their dedication to being environmentally responsible and making positive contributions to the local community.
Following the ceremony, the volunteers split into groups and set to work planting trees in designated areas of the park. With shovels in hand, they dug holes, carefully placed young trees in the ground, and covered the roots with soil, all while enjoying the camaraderie and teamwork that comes with community-driven events. Clippers’ players and staff were actively involved in the planting process, working alongside other volunteers, and setting an example for the importance of taking action to protect the environment.
The event also provided opportunities for education and engagement. Tree People representatives shared information about the benefits of trees, such as their ability to absorb carbon dioxide, provide shade, and reduce stormwater runoff. They also provided tips on tree care and maintenance to ensure the trees planted would thrive and continue to benefit the community for years to come. The event was a success, with a total of 45 trees planted in various areas of the park. These trees will not only beautify the park but also contribute to the park’s ecosystem and provide numerous environmental benefits for the community. Towards the end of the event lunch for all the volunteers and staff was provided by local minority owned business – Nay’s Tacos.
The LA Clippers, Intuit, and Aspiration expressed their gratitude to all the volunteers who participated in the event, as well as to the City of Inglewood for their support in making the event a reality. The event concluded with a closing ceremony, where participants were recognized for their efforts and contributions to the tree planting initiative. The Clippers and Tree People reiterated their commitment to continuing their environmental efforts and encouraging others to take action to protect our planet. With continued efforts like this, we can work towards a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future for our communities and our planet.