Earlier this year Soliant kicked off its philanthropy initiative, which includes taking on philanthropic projects for non-profits in need of technology solutions, as well working with our local communities through volunteer work and financial support. Friends of the Urban Forest helps individuals and neighborhood groups plan and care for street trees and sidewalk gardens throughout San Francisco.
One of the options of the Urban Forest is the Sidewalk Garden Project, which works with the San Francisco Public Utility Commission and local residents to create sidewalk gardens. To participate in the Project, at least 15 properties on a given block must be interested in participating and be located within the funded watershed area of the city. The sidewalk gardens add to the character of neighborhoods, raise property values, and reduce polluted storm water runoff.
Our work began in the Excelsior District. There were existing tree boxes and garden plots that needed to be cleared of debris and have the soil aerated, enriched with mulch, and covered with wood chips.
We put on our gloves, grabbed our border forks and ginormous shovels and got to work. We were thankful it didn’t rain while we were working and that the temperature was mild. Otherwise, the mulch (fertilizer) would have been more fragrant than usual.
In addition to the Soliant team, there were some people from Salesforce volunteering that day as well. As a result of having such a good turnout, we finished up the tree and garden prep earlier than anticipated. We joined the Urban Forest team by taking a walk to another location to help them unload and store plants that would be planted in the prepped gardens the following day.
Volunteering with my co-workers to give back to the community was an enriching experience. It felt good to help knowing that what we did provides long-term benefits for the neighborhood residents and supports Friends of the Urban Forest with their ongoing “green infrastructure” work throughout San Francisco.
We ended our volunteer day at Sushi Raw for a delicious meal and lively conversation.
If you represent a non-profit organization and would like to know more about our philanthropic services, we’d love to hear from you.
