Celebrating Earth Day Through Service at Nielsen's Grove Park
On April 22, 2026, UIMF Members joined Orem-Lindon Rotarians in a service project
at Nielsen's Grove Park in Orem, UT
Group Photo of Orem-Lindon Rotary Members and Utah Valley University Rotaractors at the Event
Orem-Lindon Rotarians and UVU Rotarators Plant Tree
On April 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Utah Valley University Rotaractors and I joined the Orem/Lindon Rotary Club in a tree-planting event at Nielsen’s Grove Park. The event focused on beautifying the park and promoting environmental sustainability by planting native trees. Working alongside fellow community members, we spent several hours planting trees that will help improve air quality, provide shade, and contribute to the long-term health of the local ecosystem. This experience was a reminder of the powerful impact of collective action and the importance of civic engagement in preserving and improving our local environment.
UVU Rotaractors Plant Tree
The tree-planting took place on a sunny Saturday morning in Nielsen’s Grove Park, a popular public park in Orem, Utah. Volunteers from various backgrounds came together to plant a variety of trees suited to the area’s climate. The goal was to enhance the park’s natural beauty and provide environmental benefits to the local community. Trees help reduce carbon dioxide levels, lower temperatures in urban areas, and offer a more inviting space for park-goers.
The Orem/Lindon Rotary Club organized the event as part of its ongoing commitment to community welfare. This activity was not only a chance to give back but also a way for the community to unite over a shared cause—creating a lasting positive impact on the environment for future generations. Participating in this project allowed me to see firsthand how a small group of people can come together to make a significant difference.
UVU Rotaractors At Nielsen's Grove Park
The event also tied into the principles of UVU’s Student-Engaged Learning (SEL) model, which encourages students to integrate classroom learning with real-world experiences. This service-learning project provided a clear example of how academic skills can be applied to benefit the community. While planting trees, we were able to use communication and teamwork skills I’ve developed at UVU to collaborate effectively with other volunteers. The experience highlighted the importance of hands-on learning and showed me how service projects can complement and enhance my academic studies.
Rotarians and Rotaractors Plant Tree (L to R): Megan Ashcraft and Erynn Lmmi at the Event
Through this experience, we learned the significance of small, individual actions contributing to a larger collective effort. Planting trees might seem like a minor task, but when many people come together, the results are impactful. This lesson is applicable not only to environmental work but also to many areas of life, from social change to professional endeavors. It reinforced for me the importance of community service and how small steps can lead to long-lasting change.
Orem-Lindon Rotary Club Members Plant Tree
Many of us also experienced a sense of personal fulfillment during the event. As we worked together to plant trees, I personally felt proud knowing our efforts would benefit the park and the local community for years to come. The sense of accomplishment and connection to nature was refreshing, and it reminded me of the value of taking time to give back.
UVU Rotaractor Matthew Ericson With Orem City Representative Are Tying Tree to Stakes
The event also made me realize the long-term commitment required for such environmental work. While planting the trees was a rewarding activity, our student team members recognized that their care and growth will need attention in the years ahead. This sense of responsibility deepened my appreciation for the environment and the importance of caring for the world around us.
UVU Rotaractors Are Spreading the Mulch Across a Garden Area
Orem-Lindon Rotarians and UVU Rotaractors
Participating in the tree-planting event at Nielsen's Grove Park was an invaluable experience that allowed me to contribute to my community, learn from real-world service, and apply concepts from UVU’s Student-Engaged Learning model. The event not only provided environmental benefits to the park but also helped us develop a stronger sense of civic responsibility. We left the activity feeling inspired to continue engaging in service opportunities and motivated to take part in future efforts that positively impact our community and the environment
Erynn Lammi, Vice-President, Utah Valley University Rotaract
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STUDENT REFLECTIVE ESSAYS
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26-04-22-Angie Macias Service Activity at Nielson Grove Park
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