Coconut Creek High’s Volunteers Give Back at Arbor Day Tree Giveaway

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Narianna Ortiz loves to help people and make a positive difference in her community.

A sophomore at Coconut Creek High School and a member of the National Honor Society (NHS), she was among a group of classmates who participated in the Arbor Day Free Tree Giveaway on April 25.

She spent the morning helping residents select trees and plants. “I believe it is important to help others, and I enjoy helping people here,” said Ortiz, who has a 4.0 grade point average.

Keith Jean, NHS secretary at Coconut Creek High, said she looks for opportunities to serve in the community. “I like being a part of an event like this because people need plants and I can help them,” said Jean, a sophomore with a 4.6 grade point average. She has been involved in various service projects at her school.

The NHS students worked with other volunteers who helped residents pick out trees and, if necessary, carry them to the cars. Some volunteers provided information on caring for plants and the environment.

Kirk Hoosac, a landscape professional, has volunteered at the tree giveaway for six years. He helped people select trees and plants. “I believe we need more trees and plants in Coconut Creek to provide shade,” he said.

Rita Vester, a science teacher at North Broward Preparatory School, provided information on how to set up a garden. “I believe people should know how to grow their food,” she said.

City manager Sheila Rose was pleased to see residents enjoying a positive event. “We gave away more than 500 trees and about 1,200 plants today,” she said.

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David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.

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