ST. LOUIS, Dec. 20, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Since launching a partnership with the U.S. Forest Service in 2004, National Garden Clubs Inc. (NGC) and its various affiliates across the country have raised money on the local and state level for the Forest Service's Penny Pines program, which is dedicated to replanting damaged forested areas. To step up the effort in 2008 -- on the heels of a year marked by raging wildfires and other natural disasters -- the NGC is issuing a plea to communities and civic organizations nationwide to pitch in.
"We believe that the post-holiday season -- after many people have enjoyed fresh-cut wreaths and trees -- offers a perfect time to remind everyone of our serious reforestation needs," says Barbara D. May, NGC president.
Donations made to the NGC-Penny Pines effort can designate a specific state or national forest to benefit. "Environmental issues and conservation are a growing concern coast-to-coast," May says. "By contributing to Penny Pines individually or through school, organization or club fundraisers, it's possible to make a difference in our future."
May notes that the NGC's donations through the efforts of its affiliates have topped $33,000, but with 2007's disastrous fires and other environmental issues, additional support is badly needed.
The NGC requests that donations be made in multiples of $68. This was the cost of planting one acre when the Penny Pines program was first started in 1941 and has been retained as a minimum donation through the years. The NGC issues handsome personalized certificates recognizing donors or their honorees. Complete information is available on the NGC Web site at www.gardenclub.org.
Penny Pines began in California as a statewide conservation program but expanded to all 50 states over the years. "Penny Pines is basically a conservation program that enables people of all ages to connect as a community and get involved in our environment," says Brenda Kendrix, public affairs specialist with the U.S. Forest Service in California.
National Garden Clubs Inc. is a not-for-profit organization. With more than 209,000 members and 6,300 member clubs across the U.S., the NGC is the largest volunteer organization of its type in the world. Founded in 1929, the NGC offers extensive educational programs and resources to promote gardening and environmental responsibility. The NGC is headquartered in St. Louis, Mo., adjacent to the world-famous Missouri Botanical Garden.