by Margaret Shauers

Created on: April 12, 2008   Last Updated: September 09, 2008

GreenCare to Support Our Troops

One thing I've learned is that even people who totally oppose this war do support the men and women having to fight it - and wish they could do something, anything to help. One of the great things I've learned about is GreenCare.

GreenCare is open on two levels - to people in the military or their families who cannot care for their own lawns and gardens. They can ask for volunteers in their area. It is also open to people and organizations for volunteers. Church groups and organizations like Kiwanis, Rotary, Masons, even garden clubs can really do a lot, but so can single volunteers who might have just an hour every week or two to donate.

Founded by Project Evergreen, a nonprofit organization that represents green industry professionals, companies and associates. The organization's goal is to promote the use of green spaces for environmental, health and beautification purposes. GreenCare for Troops is underwritten by Cub Cadet Commercial and now has more than a thousand volunteers and almost five-thousand military families using the service.

As we all know, military personnel do not earn princely salaries. Whether a spouse left at home is male or female, money gets really tight and, even if the left-at-home spouse can do some of the yard work, there may not be time if a second job must be added to child care and other responsibilities. There seldom is money enough to hire a lawn service or even a neighborhood teenager wanting to earn money.

What you can do is what you can volunteer...from weed removal to lawn mowing and other home care. Some people may have their own equipment; others will not. GreenCare should be able to match your or you organization to someone who matches what you have - or match them to your needs.

For me, this sounds like one of the most practical ways to help our troops I've heard about. It's real, it's caring, and as we move into summer, it will be needed in towns like mine where people get fined if they simply cannot take care of their properties.

If you can (or need it), go for GreenCare for Troops. You'll find them at http://www.projectevergreen.com/gcft/.

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