Waterloo, IA (April 20, 2026) – Trees Forever is working alongside the Arbor Day Foundation and MasterBrand, Inc. to plant 30 trees in the Church Row neighborhood in Waterloo. The event is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, at Elks Memorial Park.
The project aims to increase tree canopy diversity and mitigate the loss of mature trees due to the Emerald Ash Borer, while also providing a range of additional benefits to the community. In cities and neighborhoods, trees are proven to help reduce high temperatures, mitigate stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and boost mental and physical health.
“Trees have the power to drive lasting, positive change in our cities and neighborhoods — they just need our help to plant them. That’s why we’re grateful to partner with companies such as MasterBrand and organizations like Trees Forever, who are committed to their role as local tree champions,” said Lachel Bradley-Williams, senior manager of community trees for the Arbor Day Foundation. “Together, we’re growing healthier, more resilient communities for generations to come.”
This initiative focuses on both public and private property, with 15 trees designated for Elks Memorial Park and 15 trees strategically placed in Elmwood Cemetery and the rights-of-way surrounding the Cedar Valley Angels’ office. The effort is bolstered by a strong collaboration with the Church Row Neighborhood Association and Waterloo Leisure Services, ensuring these trees receive professional aftercare and long-term watering.
“We always love partnering with local volunteers and corporate planting partners to complete projects in the communities in which they live, work and play,” says Trees Forever CEO Michelle Beisker. “These trees will help bring a sense of community to the neighborhood, and we are excited to have local volunteers from MasterBrand lending a helping hand.”
“At MasterBrand, we are committed to sustainability and making a positive impact in our communities,” said Dave Banyard, president and chief executive officer of MasterBrand. “As a longtime employer in Waterloo and home to our premium Omega and Bertch cabinetry brands, we’re proud of our associates’ dedication to giving back. Supporting the planting of new trees is just one way we are investing in Waterloo and helping to create a more vibrant community for all.”
The Arbor Day Foundation has helped plant over 500 million trees in communities and forests in more than 60 countries. The global nonprofit connects support to areas in need of trees through its unmatched network of corporate partners and local tree planting organizations. Click here to learn more about how the Foundation leverages science and technology to identify communities and forests most in need of trees.
About Trees Forever
Trees Forever is a nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Marion, Iowa. Its mission – to plant and care for trees and the environment by empowering people, building community, and promoting stewardship – is fulfilled through cutting-edge programs and innovative practices. Trained and experienced staff have assisted community leaders and landowners across Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and beyond with thousands of planting projects. Each year, Trees Forever works with and educates thousands of volunteers and members of the public who give generously of their time and talents. To date, they’ve helped plant more than 3 million trees.
About MasterBrand, Inc.
MasterBrand, Inc. (NYSE: MBC) is the largest manufacturer of residential cabinets in North America and offers a comprehensive portfolio of leading residential cabinetry products for the kitchen, bathroom and other parts of the home. Delivered through our exceptional distribution network, MasterBrand products are available in a wide variety of designs, finishes and styles and span the most attractive categories of the cabinets market: stock, semi-custom and premium cabinetry. Additional information can be found at www.masterbrand.com.
About the Arbor Day Foundation
The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. They foster a growing community of more than 1 million leaders, innovators, planters, and supporters united by their bold belief that a more hopeful future can be shaped through the power of trees. For more than 50 years, they’ve answered critical need with action, planting more than half a billion trees alongside their partners.
And this is only the beginning.
The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the power of trees. Learn more at arborday.org