My name is Lauren Damiano. I am 20 years old and a junior at Stockton College. I grew up in Galloway Township, right outside of Atlantic City. I have always enjoyed being outdoors; whether I’m hiking, kayaking, swimming, or just exploring, I appreciate the shade of big trees. I find myself very interested in sustainability, environmental policy, and community planning. I am especially interested in urban communities, and I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I step back and look at a previously dilapidated vacant lot and see it transformed into a beautiful place for the community to gather.
Working with the Tree Foundation has already taught me so much, and not just about trees. Jess has taught me how to get things done right, whether it’s teaching a community member how to care for a tree, advising a contractor or organization on how to incorporate trees into a new neighborhood plan, or organizing a vast database of Camden TreeKeeper contacts. I can already tell that this internship has changed me for the better. I hope that what I extract from this internship will empower me to bring these changes home with me to Atlantic City.