Awareness Week

GreenCare for Troops Week

A week that starts on June 20 every year. Next: Sunday, June 20, 2027 in 222 days

What it’s about

GreenCare for Troops Week is a heartfelt observance that takes place during a week in June, dedicated to honoring the service members of our armed forces and their families. This special week encourages individuals and organizations to come together and support military families by providing them with complimentary lawn care and landscape services. It’s a beautiful way to show appreciation for the sacrifices these families make while their loved ones serve our country, fostering a sense of community and gratitude.

Throughout GreenCare for Troops Week, volunteers and local businesses step up to lend a helping hand, ensuring that military families can enjoy their outdoor spaces without the stress of yard work. This initiative not only brightens up their homes but also strengthens the bonds within communities, as neighbors come together to support those who serve. Engaging in acts of kindness during this week is a wonderful way to express gratitude, promote awareness of the challenges faced by military families, and inspire others to take action in their own neighborhoods. Join in the celebration and make a difference this June!

A little history

GreenCare for Troops Week is an observance that highlights the contributions of military families and the importance of connecting them with nature through gardening and landscaping. The initiative originated from a partnership between the nonprofit organization Project EverGreen and the green industry, which sought to provide support to military families during challenging times. The program was officially launched in 2006, inspired by the need for community engagement and the therapeutic benefits of gardening. Since then, it has grown into a week-long celebration each June, focusing on providing free landscaping services to families of deployed service members.

Over the years, GreenCare for Troops Week has evolved significantly. Initially aimed at connecting volunteers with military families in need of assistance, it has expanded its outreach to include educational workshops, community events, and partnerships with local businesses. This evolution reflects a growing recognition of the unique challenges faced by military families, including separation, stress, and the need for community support. The observance encourages local landscapers and gardeners to donate their time and resources, fostering a sense of camaraderie and appreciation within the community.

Culturally, GreenCare for Troops Week serves to emphasize the importance of nature and outdoor spaces in promoting mental well-being, particularly for those affected by the strains of military service. Gardening has long been recognized for its therapeutic benefits, and the observance helps to reinforce the idea that green spaces can provide solace and healing. By engaging in this initiative, communities come together to honor and support military families, creating lasting connections that extend beyond the week itself.

As GreenCare for Troops Week continues to grow, it remains a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and their families. The observance not only highlights the beauty of giving back but also emphasizes the collective responsibility to care for those who serve our country. By bringing communities together to support military families through gardening, GreenCare for Troops Week fosters a spirit of gratitude and resilience, showcasing the profound impact of nature and community in times of need.

Timeline

2005
The GreenCare for Troops program is launched by the National Association of Landscape Professionals to provide free landscaping services to military families.
2006
GreenCare for Troops Week is established to raise awareness and encourage participation in supporting military families through landscaping assistance.
2010
The program expands its reach, gaining support from various landscaping companies and volunteers across the United States.
2015
GreenCare for Troops receives national recognition for its contributions to military families, enhancing community involvement and support.
2020
The initiative adapts to include virtual events and online resources in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continued support for military families.
2021
GreenCare for Troops celebrates its 15th anniversary, highlighting the positive impact of landscaping services on the well-being of military families.