GreenCare for Troops Celebrates Military Families in June

Military families face many challenges from frequent relocations and long deployments to the daily stress of having a loved one in service. Since 2006, Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops program has provided meaningful relief through donated lawn and landscape services that ease these burdens, enhance quality of life, and create healthier home green spaces.

To spotlight the extraordinary impact of its volunteers and the growing needs of military families, Project EverGreen proudly declares June 2025 as National GreenCare for Troops Awareness Month.

Now in its 19th year, GreenCare for Troops has delivered an estimated $20 million in donated services to nearly 20,000 military families nationwide. These efforts foster environmental health, community pride, and vibrant outdoor spaces where families can relax, reconnect, and recharge.

“GreenCare for Troops is more than a service, it’s a lifeline,” says Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “Our volunteers relieve stress by taking yard work off the to-do list. But more importantly, they create spaces where families can feel grounded and supported. It’s a deeply personal and transformative experience for both the families and the volunteers who serve them.”

Get Involved – “You Move, We Mow” Challenge Returns

As part of this year’s observance of GreenCare for Troops Awareness Month, which is recognized by Chase’s Calendar of Events, Project EverGreen is bringing back the You Move, We Mow Challenge, a nationwide movement encouraging people to walk, run, bike, or hike in honor of deployed military families. The goal: log 19,000 steps between June 22–28, symbolizing GreenCare for Troops’ 19 years of service.

“The You Move, We Mow Challenge is a great way to support military families and enjoy the green spaces we work to protect,” says Blaine Pinkerton, VP of Turf & Ornamental Sales for Nufarm, title sponsor of GreenCare for Troops. “Whether you walk, run, or ride, you’re raising awareness and celebrating the lawn care pros who give back every day.”

The Impact Is Real

The impact of GreenCare for Troops resonates with military families, volunteers, and communities alike.

“Taking one worry off the minds of deployed spouses is a tremendous service,” says volunteer and Air Force veteran Richard Hansen of Hanen’s Lawn Care in Woodbury, Minnesota. “If we can maintain their property so it looks just as nice as when they left, that’s one less thing they have to stress about and that makes a difference.”

By volunteering, GreenCare for Troops providers deliver:

• Healthier, safer green spaces that cool the environment and clean the air
• Opportunities for outdoor activity and connection
• Support for mental health and well-being
• Peace of mind and stability during deployment
• Enhanced curb appeal and property value
• A meaningful expression of gratitude for service and sacrifice

Whether you’re a green industry professional looking to give back, or a supporter eager to make a difference, there’s a place for you in GreenCare for Troops.

To volunteer or learn more, visit www.ProjectEverGreen.org or call 888.611.2955.

GreenCare for Troops Sponsors

The Title Sponsor of the GreenCare for Troops program is Nufarm.

Our Platinum Partners include Toro, SiteOne Landscape Supply and Heritage Landscape Supply.

The Silver Partner is Arborjet/Ecologel and our Affiliate Partners include the Connecticut Grounds Keepers Association and the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association.

GreenCare for Troops is proudly endorsed by the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

GreenCare for Troops Facts & Figures

Impact by the Numbers

Since its launch, GreenCare for Troops has:

• Delivered $20 million+ in donated services
• Served thousands of military families nationwide
• Mobilized a nationwide network of landscape professionals committed to giving back

Why Are Green Spaces Important to Military Families?

Green spaces provide more than just curb appeal. They offer a calming, functional environment that supports mental and physical health, especially during the emotional strain of deployment. These spaces:

• Lower surface temperatures and reduce energy use
• Filter pollutants and improve air quality
• Provide a safe place for kids to play and families to connect
• Boost emotional well-being by offering a sense of normalcy and pride in home

Who is Project EverGreen?

Project EverGreen is a national non-profit based in Cleveland, Ohio, dedicated to making yards, parks, and public green spaces greener, healthier, and cooler for all. Through volunteer-driven programs, the organization helps create environments that promote well-being, environmental sustainability, and community strength.