Lindenwood Magazine - Fall 2022

8 9 FALL 2022 EDITION FALL 2022 EDITION THE LINDENWOOD THE LINDENWOOD The plan focused on La Palma establishing committees and utilizing reforestation to improve their living situation. By planting trees in and around their community, La Palma was better positioned to gain water accessibility, shadier areas for humans and livestock, increased firewood stores, less erosion, and future job prospects. The community leaders showed interest in the idea, asking the students numerous questions. “Seeing how appreciative the community was after the presentation made the work worth it,” said student Justin Sherman. Within a week of presenting, the students learned the La Palma community had already approached the local Global Brigades chapter to start the reforestation process. “I’ve always known that I play a very small part in this world. I’ve done my fair share of traveling, and after I left the Marine Corps, I thought I was done [affecting change]. Seeing that I can make a change without leaving was eye-opening,” said Sherman. “Now that the project is over, I want to see what other impacts I can make going forward.” “This experience reminded me that I need to see my passion and knowledge as a gift that I can use to make a difference,” stated Fuchs. “You are never too small to make a difference or inspire other people.” JUSTIN SHERMAN Seeing how appreciative the community was after the presentation made the work worth it. FEATURE STORY