Grants Awarded to Two Local Projects
Each year, Thorn Creek Audubon awards grants up to $500 for local projects that support wildlife protection, habitat restoration, or environmental education. Grant applications are reviewed quarterly. The newest TCAS Environmental Grant recipients are:
High School Pollinator Garden & Environmental Education: Evergreen Park Community High School
The students and staff are renovating a school courtyard focusing on using native plants attractive to pollinators.
The project incorporates multi-faceted student involvement including students installing the plants and a science class presentation on the importance of native plants and pollinators in the environment. Students from the AERO Co-op are included in this project with their own section of the garden to plant. Students in the Building & Construction class are making birdhouses as a nice finishing touch. The project planning is supported by a University of Illinois Horticulture Extension Educator in Matteson and Master Gardeners.
The TCAS grant provides native plants and some equipment needed to nurture the garden.
Improve Wildlife Habitat at Open Lands Park: Hazel Crest Open Lands Arboretum (Hazel Crest, Ill.)
The Village of Hazel Crest's main goal for its three Open Lands parks, totaling 53 acres, is to increase tree canopy diversity and provide recreation opportunities to residents. A dedicated volunteer group works with the Village to clear invasive brush, plant and tag trees, install interpretive signs, and contribute other enhancement projects.
Open Lands Park is an accredited Level II ArbNet arboretum. The trees play a key role in reducing local heat islands and flood mitigation. The grant provides native shrubs and perennials that will continue their effort to expand habitat diversity.
"Thorn Creek Audubon is delighted to help fund these projects that align with the chapter's mission," said TCAS President Diane Hicks. "These projects will benefit area students and a local community.
Congratulations to the grant recipients.
We look forward to the results of your completed projects!
About the Environmental Grants Program
Through its annual grant program, Thorn Creek Audubon aims to increase habitat conservation, environmental education, and wild bird appreciation. Local organizations are invited to submit proposals for grants of up to $500. Details are on the TCAS website at: Environmental Grants.
The Environmental Grant program and other chapter projects are supported by Thorn Creek Audubon member dues and contributions.
Hazel Crest Open Lands - South Section
June 13, 2025