Tree-planting initiative aims to boost well-being for adults with intellectual disabilities and caregivers
By THE STAR STAFF
Adults with intellectual disabilities and their families planted native trees at the headquarters of the Rigoberto Figueroa Figueroa Foundation in Guaynabo over the weekend as part of an environmental initiative designed to promote well-being, community engagement and sustainability.
The event, titled “Sembrando Futuro” (Planting the Future), brought together program participants, caregivers, relatives and community volunteers to plant native species including rose apple, guamá, grosella, flor de maga and annatto trees. The activity was conducted in collaboration with Para la Naturaleza’s islandwide reforestation project, “La Siembra.”
“This initiative allows the Foundation to create spaces that help conserve natural resources and foster green areas that provide an environment of wellness and tranquility for our loved ones, their caregivers and families,” said Rafael Cintrón, executive director of the foundation.
He added that “small actions, such as planting trees, contribute to the common good of the community.”
Foundation officials said the organization’s grounds already feature a variety of native and ornamental trees donated by citizens, including cacao, flamboyán, guayacán and oak trees. The partnership with Para la Naturaleza is expected to further enhance the campus environment and create outdoor spaces that participants, caregivers and the broader community can enjoy.
Native trees play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by providing oxygen and shade while supporting biodiversity. They also offer food and shelter for wildlife and help mitigate the effects of climate change, organizers noted.
The Rigoberto Figueroa Figueroa Foundation operates programs focused on the growth, creativity and development of adults with intellectual disabilities. In addition, the nonprofit promotes the arts, Puerto Rican culture, sustainable agriculture and entrepreneurial development.
Cintrón said the “Sembrando Futuro” initiative is intended to cultivate environmental awareness while encouraging shared responsibility for the conservation of natural resources.
“With this initiative, we seek to foster environmental awareness and promote a culture of shared responsibility toward nature,” he said. “We also call on society to become more attuned to the needs and realities of people with disabilities in order to improve their quality of life, which is an essential mission of our Foundation.”
Community volunteers joined adults with disabilities throughout the planting effort, which Foundation officials said reflects the organization’s commitment to inclusion, environmental stewardship and improving the quality of life of the people it serves.
