On October 24, 2025, more than 80 volunteers braved the rain to plant 64 new trees at Paramount School Park in Shoreline as part of Planting a Better Tomorrow. Partnering with the City of Shoreline, MBAKS members, residents, and city staff came together to make a lasting impact on one of the city’s most underserved green spaces.

Sowing the Seeds of Change

Despite the downpour, the park was filled with energy, laughter, and teamwork. Volunteers worked side by side to dig, plant, and turn a gray day into one filled with purpose—all supporting Shoreline’s goal of reaching 40% tree canopy coverage by 2050.

Before the event, Paramount School Park had only 9% canopy coverage, among the lowest in the area. Every new tree planted helps improve air quality, increase shade, and strengthen community well-being.

Since launching Planting a Better Tomorrow in 2024, MBAKS and its partners have planted 139 trees with help from more than 130 volunteers—nearly one tree for every person who has participated. The program empowers members and community partners to make measurable environmental contributions while building stronger connections across our region.

“This is about more than planting trees—it’s about planting hope,” said MBAKS Executive Director Jerry Hall. “Everybody deserves a place to call home, and no home can thrive without a healthy environment.”

We were thrilled to have KING 5 join us to capture the day’s efforts.

Next up, MBAKS members and volunteers will trade shovels for paintbrushes at Painting a Better Tomorrow on Saturday, November 15, 2025. This year’s recipient, Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County, will receive a fresh coat of paint—and a renewed sense of hope.

Volunteer Sign-Up

Together, we’re proving that when communities unite—whether to plant, paint, or build—we can make lasting change.