Volunteer This Earth Month: Veteran-Led Projects for Sustainability and Community Impact
Every April, communities across the country pause to reflect on our relationship with the environment and explore ways to take meaningful action. Earth Month is a time to roll up our sleeves and make a tangible difference in the places we call home. At Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), we believe service is the most powerful expression of that commitment.
This year, we're proud to announce that Earth Month is now officially recognized as a National Service Initiative, annual focused efforts of Operation Legacy Service Projects hosted by TMF Chapters. Since joining forces with The Mission Continues (TMC), TMF has grown its annual focused efforts from four to six:
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MLK Service Projects in January;
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Earth Month Service Projects in April;
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The Honor Project in May;
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Back to School Character Days in August;
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9/11 Service Projects and the 9/11 Heroes Run in September;
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and Veterans Day Service Projects in November.
Earth Month brings together veterans, families of fallen heroes, and civilians in nearly 60 communities across the country to protect and restore the natural world around them.
Whether you're planting trees in a neighborhood park, building raised garden beds for a local school, or cleaning up a city waterway, Earth Month service projects offer a chance to do meaningful work alongside people who share your values. Ready to get involved? Find an Earth Month project near you.
Earth Month Volunteer
"I loved working with others, but most of all I loved sharing this experience with my family. Community service is a big part of our bonding time. I love that my kiddo was empowered to go out and work with other kids. She was beaming with pride that she got to paint, mulch & help out with another kiddo."
What Is Earth Month—And Why Does It Matter?
Earth Month traces its roots to Earth Day, first celebrated on April 22, 1970, when 20 million Americans took to the streets to demand action on environmental issues. More than 50 years later, that spirit of grassroots action is as relevant as ever—and veteran-led service has become one of the most impactful ways to carry it forward.
The Impact of Earth Month By the Numbers
Last year's effort led by TMC showed exactly what's possible when veterans and volunteers unite around a shared cause.
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1,300+ volunteers participated across the country
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44 service projects completed in communities nationwide
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6,200+ hours of service contributed by dedicated volunteers
From urban gardens to neighborhood clean-ups, these volunteers turned environmental stewardship into action—and demonstrated the power of community when it comes together with purpose.
Earth Month Volunteer
"I've learned new skills — how to build or use power tools — met both veterans and non-veterans, and became more familiar with nearby communities and their needs."
Sustainability in Action—A Note on Our Partners
Earth Month isn't just about the projects—it's about the values that guide them. That's why we're proud to partner with organizations that share our commitment to environmental responsibility.
We're grateful for the support of Green Paper Products, a company dedicated to sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics. Green Paper Products donated 3,500 compostable cutlery sets and 3,500 compostable plates for our TMF Tailgate event—putting their values into practice right alongside ours.
Join Us This Earth Month
Whether you're a veteran, a family member of a fallen hero, or an inspired civilian who wants to serve, there's a place for you this April. TMF's Earth Month service projects are open to everyone, and every hour of service makes a difference. Find an Earth Month project near you and sign up today.
