Last night, CBS Evening News shined a light on a powerful story from Los Angeles—one that reflects the heart of our mission at Trust for Public Land.
The story features 7-year-old Nicholas and his dad, Saul, planting trees together—not just to green their neighborhood schoolyard, but to build a safer, cooler, more hopeful future for their community.
Like so many students across the country, Nicholas once played on a scorching blacktop that could reach 145 degrees. But today, thanks to our partnership with Camino Nuevo Charter Academy, the Los Angeles Unified School District, and local families in the Pico Union neighborhood, that asphalt has been replaced by trees, grass, and fresh air—cooling the space by as much as 40 degrees.
This transformation is part of a growing movement. In Los Angeles, it's the first of 28 community schoolyards slated to be transformed before the 2028 Olympics. Across the country, we've already got 350 schoolyards under our belt (and counting!) thanks to supporters like you, who've helped convert asphalt lots into vibrant green spaces.
These outdoor classrooms and community parks improve student learning, promote health, and provide much-needed access to nature—especially in neighborhoods that have long gone without.
📺 Watch the CBS Evening News segment.
Together, we’re bringing these opportunities to more children, families, and communities—because everyone deserves access to the outdoors.
Thank you for believing in this work.
—The team at Trust for Public Land
