Ward 8 Woods Volunteer Feature

On a warm late spring morning, members of our team gathered at the Congress Heights Metro Station to volunteer with Ward 8 Woods, supporting their ongoing efforts to “increase the health, beauty, and public enjoyment of urban forests East of the Anacostia River in Washington, DC”. Our group of seven—one faculty member, three staff, one postdoc, and two graduate research assistants—joined Ward 8 Woods staff at an abandoned woodland behind the station. 

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The site, shaped like a natural bowl, collects significant debris and trash after each rainstorm via stormwater pipes and runoff, explained Ward 8 Woods Executive Director Nathan Harrington. Sometimes the most effective frontline solution is simply to show up, get our hands dirty, and begin cleaning.

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Together, we collected more than 20 bags of plastic bottles and other waste, uncovering a few unexpected “treasures” along the way. The experience ended with an encounter with a family of deer—a meaningful reminder of the connection between environmental stewardship and community wellbeing. Thanks to Nathan and Jasmine for letting our team take part in the incredible work that they do with the community. 

As summer begins, we encourage members of our Milken Institute SPH community to explore local volunteer opportunities—whether with Ward 8 Woods or other organizations working to strengthen and sustain our city’s natural environments.