Stanbridge University Plants 10,000 Trees Across Southern California
Restoring Native Habitats Across Southern California
Stanbridge University has reached a major milestone in its Root for Change Tree Planting Initiative, with 10,000 trees planted across Southern California. The initiative, launched in 2018 through the Stanbridge University outREACH program, reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, community partnerships, and service-driven learning.
Through volunteer engagement and collaboration with regional partners, the initiative is helping restore natural habitats affected by wildfire damage and the decline of native tree species throughout the region.
“Our goal was to give back to the communities that have supported us. We also aimed to help rebuild the natural environments impacted by wildfires,” said Yasith Weerasuriya, President of Stanbridge University. “This initiative demonstrates how education extends beyond the classroom when students, faculty, and staff work together. It shows how they can make a positive, lasting difference.”
Restoring Native Habitats Across Southern California
Southern California has experienced significant environmental loss in recent years due to wildfires and the decline of native trees such as oaks and sycamores. The Root for Change initiative addresses these challenges by planting native species that support long-term ecosystem health.
Trees planted through the program include:
- Coast Live Oak
- California Sycamore
- Cottonwood
These species are vital for maintaining biodiversity and supporting regional ecosystems. Native trees provide habitat for birds and insects, improve soil quality, and help regulate water runoff in wildfire-affected areas.
Tree planting efforts have taken place across multiple restoration sites, including:
- Great Park Trails in Irvine
- Harbor View Nature Park in Newport Beach
- Santiago Oaks Regional Park
- Costa Mesa Canyon Park
- Peters Canyon Regional Park
- Topanga State Park
These locations play an important role in protecting wildlife habitats and improving environmental resilience across Southern California.
Partnerships That Strengthen Community Impact
The success of Root for Change has been made possible through partnerships with local agencies and nonprofit organizations dedicated to environmental restoration.
Key partners include:
- City of Irvine
- Orange County Parks
- Shade Tree Partnership Nursery
These collaborations ensure planting efforts align with regional restoration priorities and provide native trees for volunteer projects.
Over the past five years, Stanbridge volunteers have also supported Orange County Parks through a multiyear effort at the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, helping plant more than 6,000 native plants that protect one of Southern California’s most important ecological areas.
Compassion in Action Through outREACH
Root for Change is one of several initiatives led through Stanbridge University outREACH, a program that connects students, faculty, and staff with hands-on service opportunities.
Through outREACH, volunteers participate in projects that support:
- Environmental restoration
- Resource drives and meals for people experiencing homelessness
- Veteran support initiatives
- International service trips focused on healthcare and education
These experiences allow students to apply compassion, teamwork, and responsibility beyond the classroom while contributing to meaningful community impact.
Why Tree Planting Matters for Southern California
Tree planting initiatives like Root for Change provide long-term benefits for local ecosystems and communities.
Benefits include:
- Supporting habitats for birds, pollinators, and wildlife
- Improving soil health and reducing erosion
- Enhancing air quality and carbon absorption
- Managing water runoff and watershed health
- Strengthening biodiversity in wildfire-impacted areas
By restoring native habitats, initiatives like Root for Change help create more resilient ecosystems throughout Southern California.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stanbridge University and Community Outreach
What is Stanbridge University known for?
Stanbridge University is known for its healthcare-focused degree programs and its commitment to community engagement through outreach initiatives. These initiatives support health, education, and environmental sustainability.
How does Stanbridge University support sustainability?
Stanbridge University supports sustainability through initiatives like the Root for Change Tree Planting Initiative. This initiative focuses on restoring native habitats, supporting wildlife, and improving environmental health across Southern California.
How are Stanbridge University students involved in community service?
Students participate in community service through the outREACH program, which offers volunteer opportunities. These opportunities include environmental restoration, community support efforts, and global service projects.
Why does Stanbridge University focus on tree planting?
Tree planting supports local ecosystems by providing habitats for birds and insects. It also improves soil and air quality and helps manage water runoff in wildfire-affected areas.
Where does Stanbridge University conduct outreach projects?
Stanbridge University outreach projects take place throughout Southern California in partnership with cities, parks, and nonprofit organizations. Additionally, they occur through international service initiatives.
How can prospective students learn about Stanbridge University outreach programs?
Prospective students can learn more about outreach and volunteer opportunities by visiting the Stanbridge University outREACH webpage.
Learn More About Stanbridge University Outreach