Applications are now open for Nuestros Bosques (Our Forests), our new bilingual, community-driven urban forestry program right here in Providence.

Nuestros Bosques is a 10-week paid learning and training opportunity for adults living in the 02908 and 02909 zip codes, including Olneyville, Manton, Mount Pleasant, the Valley, and nearby neighborhoods. If you’re interested in learning about trees, helping your community, and spending time outdoors, we’d love for you to apply. Spanish- and English-speaking community members are encouraged to join us.

Applications are due by Monday, February 2.

APPLY NOW

What the Program Looks Like

Participants in Nuestros Bosques will earn $25 per hour while learning about urban trees and hands-on tree care. We’ll provide snacks and childcare during class sessions, and all classes and activities will be offered in both Spanish and English.

After completing the program, participants can continue earning stipends by joining tree plantings, stewardship events, and other urban forestry activities with us.

“Our goal is to put trees where they’re needed most while building local leadership,” says Layla Farahbakhsh, our Nuestros Bosques Program Coordinator. “Trees protect streambanks, cool neighborhoods, reduce flooding, and improve health. This program doesn’t just plant trees—it grows skills, confidence, and stronger communities.”

Once you complete the interest form, a member of our team will follow up by phone to share next steps.

Growing Urban Forests Where They Matter Most

Nuestros Bosques focuses on neighborhoods that experience higher heat, flooding, and limited access to green space. The trees we plant help protect waterways, support native ecosystems, and provide much-needed shade and cooling for our communities.

Over the next three years, this program will allow us to:

  • Build dense, multi-layered Miyawaki pocket forests along and near the Woonasquatucket River Greenway using diverse native species

  • Support two dedicated staff members: Layla Farahbakhsh, Nuestros Bosques Program Coordinator, and Kuno Haimnodi, River Ranger Tree Specialist

  • Train around 50 community members as tree stewards to care for newly planted trees

  • Expand green spaces that reduce stormwater runoff, lower urban temperatures, and support urban biodiversity

We’re proud to be working alongside incredible partners, including the Providence Neighborhood Planting Program, 15 Minute Field Trips, the Rhode Island Tree Council, Garden Time, Groundwork Rhode Island, and Central Providence Unidos. Together, we’re already caring for more than 300 trees along the Greenway, with more plantings planned in the years ahead.

Program Funding & Support

Nuestros Bosques is supported through the Hispanic Access Foundation’s Nuestros Bosques Initiative, a national program funded by the USDA Forest Service that promotes urban forestry, workforce development, and community engagement across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Ready to Apply?

Registration and full program details are available now. If you’re interested, be sure to complete the interest form by February 2.

Questions?
lfarahbakhsh@wrwc.org
 (401) 861-9038