Uncovering the Role and Labor of Volunteer Leaders within a Community-Led Urban Tree Planting Initiative

Abstract

Urban forestry programs across North America rely on volunteers to lead urban forest stewardship activities and encourage participation in tree planting and general maintenance. We examined the leadership structure of a tree planting initiative (TPI) in the greater Philadelphia region to understand the role and labor contributions of volunteer leaders, and the current challenges of achieving equitable urban tree canopy within community-led TPIs. Using an online survey, we found that leaders contribute unpaid labor, time, and skills within the following categories: group organization and communication, tree-planting and event coordination, tree care and maintenance, and broader environmental education and advocacy. Volunteer leaders also face challenges related to leadership and administrative tasks. This study deepens understandings of the labor needs within volunteer TPIs and potential ways to support the equitable growth of these initiatives moving forward. Future research is needed to understand recognitional equity gaps in volunteer leadership more broadly.