Do what you love, love what you do!
CanopyBloomington's fearless, dedicated and very talented leader, Executive Director Ava Hartman, asked if I would introduce myself to you, Canopy's generous and committed followers, volunteers, donors and partners. I likely may know some of you already. If so, I'll use this platform to say, “good to see you again!”
I am so excited to join CanopyBloomington in the part-time role as community engagement specialist. This opportunity, like my previous career roles, gives me a chance to take something I love and care about deeply and share it with a broader community, getting to know and learn from people every step of the way.
As an outsider, I have been so impressed with Canopy's mission, their successes and all of the people I have encountered who are linked to the organization. While growing and making more equitable Bloomington's tree canopy is enough to catch your attention, Canopy's focus on education, inspiration and growing a community that cares about trees should inspire anyone interested in the environment and a brighter, better future. It certainly was for me.
As a volunteer, I have been working in greenspaces across the city for the past few years, helping control invasive and non-native species. Much of this work happens while looking down at the ground—the understory and forest floors—but our focus is truly on the canopy, protecting it so it will flourish. This service work is as much a way for me and my wife Jennifer to connect to nature as it is to connect with people. Even though we have adopted Winslow Woods and often work solo, so much of this work is communal, thanks to the great Bloomington Parks Department Adopt-a-Greenspace programs led by Gillian Field and Johanna Sparks. We now have a new community of friends and usually learn something from everyone we work with.
My love of planting trees, however, is relatively new. This is mostly thanks to the inspiration and good teachings of Ray Major, a somewhat recent 'transplant' to Bloomington. If you looked in the encyclopedia under 'tree expert', perhaps you will find his picture. I have never met anyone more knowledgeable about the planting, care and life cycle of trees indigenous to the Midwest. His volunteer teachings, generosity and goodwill are contagious. Thank you, Ray.
Within the last few weeks alone, I have participated in the planting of about 100 seedlings and have personally placed more than 1000 White and Red Oak acorns into the ground in Bloomington greenspaces, each brimming with the chance of a possible future. Enough said … I am betting on the future and I love trees, with everything they represent.
I am hopeful that my past work in engaging communities (and individuals) through the arts with Indiana University Cinema, Browning Cinema at the University of Notre Dame, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center and the Vickers Theatre will serve me well ... as I work to serve you.
I look forward to connecting with you individually to see how CanopyBloomington can help serve your community. Thanks in advance for welcoming me to Canopy!
Jon Vickers
Community Engagement Specialist
CanopyBloomington