Founded in January 1990, TREES Inc. is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to the beautification of Terre Haute and Vigo County, Indiana, through tree planting and environmental stewardship. Hundreds of local citizens have been members of and volunteers for TREES Inc.
For 35 years, TREES Inc. volunteers have organized tree planting events, adding thousands of trees to streets, neighborhoods, parks and public spaces in our community. The group has also maintained the young trees it planted, conducted meetings and educational events, distributed free saplings and served as a community advocate for trees and the local environment.
In 1999, TREES Inc. was instrumental in helping the city of Terre Haute earn designation as TREE CITY USA. This recognition, awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation, celebrates communities committed to effective urban forest management.
TREES Inc. has engaged the community through various programs and committees, encouraging residents to take an active role supporting our local environment. The organization's Memorial and Commemorative Trees Program offers opportunities for individuals to honor loved ones with a tree.
Our History
Celebrating
Joy Sacopulos
TREES Inc. was the brainchild of Joy Sacopulos (1939-2019), a life-long resident of Terre Haute. She dedicated her life to nurturing the beauty, heritage and environmental health of our community.
In 1990, Joy founded TREES Inc., a volunteer-led organization committed to beautifying Terre Haute through tree planting and environmental stewardship. Since its founding, the group has planted thousands of trees, contributing to a greener, more sustainable city.
To honor her enduring legacy, a masonry and stone memorial was constructed in 2021 as an entry point to Deming Park, connecting to the National Road Heritage Trail along Poplar Street. This memorial is lined with white oak trees—Joy’s favorite — and serves as a testament to her love for nature and her unwavering commitment to improving Terre Haute.