Orlando, FL — October 14, 2025
In a powerful example of community climate action, IDEAS For Us, in partnership with TD Bank and the Arbor Day Foundation, led a major tree planting project at Everoak Farm in Orlando. This event was part of TD Tree Days, the bank’s flagship volunteer and urban greening program that supports healthier, more resilient communities across the United States.This year’s TD Tree Days grant supported the planting of 847 trees and shrubs at Everoak Farm. In July, 597 fruit trees were established, followed by an additional 250 trees and shrubs planted in October. Together, these plantings form the foundation of a syntropic agroforestry system, an innovative regenerative farming method that mimics natural forests to restore soil health, boost biodiversity, and increase food production in urban spaces.
This project is not just about trees. It is about building a living, productive ecosystem that benefits both the environment and the surrounding community.
“We are excited to participate in TD Tree Days because it accelerates our work to bring climate solutions and food security to the neighborhoods we serve,” said Caroline Chomanics, Chief Operating Officer of IDEAS For Us. “Syntropic agroforestry turns underused land into productive, resilient ecosystems that shade our streets, improve soil health, and grow fresh food while engaging volunteers in hands on climate action.”
Community Volunteers Leading Real Climate Solutions
Volunteers gathered at Everoak Farm to plant, mulch, and learn from farmer Mike Garcia, who guided the installation and shared the principles of regenerative farming.
“Through agroforestry, we are building a living system that produces food, restores the land, and keeps teaching us year after year,” Garcia said. “These 847 trees and shrubs will anchor long term biodiversity, water retention, and soil health, showing what regenerative farming can deliver for Central Florida.”
Why Tree Planting Projects Like This Matter for Orlando
Tree planting in Orlando goes beyond beautification. It helps address climate change, urban heat, and food insecurity, while creating green spaces that strengthen community resilience. By focusing on disadvantaged neighborhoods and regenerative design, projects like Everoak Farm:
- Reduce carbon emissions and urban heat island effects
- Provide fresh, local produce for nearby residents
- Improve stormwater retention and soil structure
- Offer educational opportunities on sustainable agriculture
- Create habitat corridors for pollinators and wildlife
By transforming this landscape into a productive, climate resilient green space, the project not only addresses environmental inequities but also serves as a living demonstration site for future urban agriculture and reforestation efforts across Central Florida.
About TD Tree Days
TD Tree Days is a community based program run by TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®, in collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation. Since its inception in 2011, TD Tree Days has brought together thousands of volunteers to plant over 18,000 trees across the United States, strengthening local ecosystems and improving urban green space.
IDEAS For Us is proud to be one of only 19 organizations nationwide selected for this year’s TD Tree Days grant. Other 2024 planting locations include East Boston, Philadelphia, Columbia, Washington, D.C., Miami, Tampa, and Jacksonville.
A Model for Future Regenerative Projects
The Everoak Farm project is a model for future urban agriculture initiatives in Florida and beyond. By combining corporate support, nonprofit leadership, and community volunteers, it demonstrates how local climate action can scale meaningful change.
🌱 About IDEAS For Us
IDEAS For Us is an Orlando based environmental nonprofit and United Nations accredited NGO advancing sustainability through local action. Since 2008, IDEAS has implemented real solutions in energy, water, food, waste, and ecology to help communities adapt to climate challenges and thrive. Learn more at www.ideasforus.org and follow @ideasforus.orlando.
