About Us
Currently, a lack of tree coverage and green spaces in underprivileged neighborhoods in Houston contributes to making them urban heat islands, meaning that they can be as much as 17 degrees warmer than more wooded neighborhoods on a given day. Additionally, a lack of green spaces also contributes to negative impacts on the physical and mental health of residents, creating environmental injustice. The TREE Initiative
seeks to plant trees and create green spaces in areas in need, helping to support communities at multiple levels.
Our Mission
We really care about making Houston a better place and believe that we can make it greener, healthier, and more equitable for everyone who calls it home. That is why we’ve created the TREE Initiative – Together for Restoration and Environmental Equality. We want to engage with community members both through their potential volunteering during plantings and via their involvement to help keep trees alive through mulching and consistent watering after trees have been planted. Thousands of Houstonians will not only experience the direct benefits of expanded green spaces (improved air quality, reduced temperatures, better flood control, and better overall health), but they will also learn how trees can be planted and properly cared for.
Our Aspirations
The goal of the TREE initiative is to mitigate the environmental injustice present in Houston communities and to promote tree equity in Houston. We want to plant at least 2000 trees by the end of spring 2026. In collaboration with NPOs such as Trees for Houston, the Alief Super Neighborhood Council, AliefVotes, Friends of Columbia Tap, and others we have planted 1000+ trees so far, and can't wait to see that number grow.
Our Team
Vedika Tandon
Founder and President
Neha Ravi
Vice President
Juliette Oudinot
Vice President