Galewood Is Growing a Greener Future — And You Can Get a Free Tree to Help

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Galewood · July 29, 2026

Galewood is getting shadier — and that's a very good thing. Galewood Neighbors, Inc. is actively encouraging residents to sign up for a free tree through its Tree Ambassador Program, a community greening initiative that has already quietly transformed dozens of blocks across the neighborhood.

The roots of the program run deep. In 2023, Galewood Neighbors, Inc. was approached by the Chicago Region Tree Initiative and the City of Chicago's Our Roots Program to participate in a pilot effort to expand Chicago's urban tree canopy. The organization successfully applied for a federal USDA grant — beating out the majority of applicants — and got to work. Over the past two-plus years, volunteer Tree Ambassadors have planted over 100 trees across Galewood, while also educating neighbors on the long-term environmental, health, and economic benefits a stronger tree canopy brings to a community. And even as the original grant period wound down, the Tree Ambassadors have pledged to keep the momentum going for the long haul.

Now, Galewood Neighbors wants to grow the program even further — and every resident with a parkway or yard can play a part. Getting a free tree for your property is one of the easiest, most lasting ways to invest in Galewood's future. Head over to galewoodneighbors.org to learn more about how to claim yours and keep Galewood growing.

Sources:
1. https://galewoodneighbors.org/Tree-Program
2. https://galewoodneighbors.org/