Forterra is thrilled to Announce a Community Restoration Grant Award to Free The Green! 

Free The Green began as a student-led initiative within the Natural Resources Department at Green River College, with a vision to provide real-world learning opportunities while addressing critical environmental challenges. As community interest and support grew, Free The Green transitioned into a nonprofit organization, and this grant marks a significant milestone as its first major award as a nonprofit. 

At its heart, Free The Green is dedicated to inspiring and empowering the next generation of environmental stewards while restoring vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, traditional food systems, and local communities. By integrating hands-on restoration with education, mentorship, and collaboration, Free The Green strives to create a future where people and nature thrive together. 

The funds from this grant will be used to restore land along the Soos Creek Trail in Kent, a vital part of the King County Parks system. This natural area provides critical habitat and serves as a beloved recreational space. The restoration project will focus on improving water quality, enhancing salmon habitat, and bolstering the resilience of the local ecosystem to ensure long-term sustainability. 

In partnership with the Green River College Natural Resources Program, and King County Parks, Free The Green will work to restore the health of Soos Creek while fostering the next generation of environmental leaders. The project will engage student interns from the University of Washington and Green River College, who will gain hands-on experience in leading volunteer events, conducting educational outreach, and carrying out on-the-ground restoration work. Through mentorship from alumni and former interns, these participants are building career pathways into green jobs with organizations like King County Parks and beyond. 

Free The Green’s work extends beyond students, empowering all volunteers and community members who participate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become active stewards of the environment. 

Congratulations to Free The Green! We are so grateful for the work you do.