The Arbor Day Foundation has named Aspirus Wausau Hospital (AWH) a Tree Campus Healthcare institution for showing its understanding of the vital role trees play in human health.
AWH has earned recognition in the Foundation’s third year of the program. To receive Tree Campus Healthcare recognition, AWH met five program standards: have an advisory committee, facility tree care plan, community forestry project, a celebration event and a financial investment toward a tree care plan or projects.
“We are extremely proud to have earned this distinction,” says Ali Wolf, Aspirus System Sustainability Program Director. “Aspirus understands that health care expands beyond the walls of our facilities.”
The Arbor Day Foundation is the world’s largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. Its Tree Campus Healthcare program aims to transform community health and wellness and ultimately save lives through the health benefits provided by trees, as well as recognize healthcare institutions that make an impact on wellness through tree planting, education and community engagement.
“Trees not only play a vital role in the environment but also in our daily lives,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive, Arbor Day Foundation. “They have shown to improve patient recovery time and improve the overall mental state. The Tree Campus Healthcare program does an incredible job of bridging the gap between health and nature.”
Tree Campus Healthcare strives to improve human health outcomes by connecting inpatient healthcare facilities of all sizes with local community forestry programs, while improving the extent and condition of the community forest. Facilities in the U.S. delivering inpatient healthcare services are eligible for Tree Campus Healthcare recognition, including hospitals, senior care and other residential rehabilitation properties.
For more information or to apply, visit www.treecampushealthcare.org.