Better Climate, Better Health, Better World
Youth Global Climate Initiative
One Tree At A Time
Youth Global Climate Initiative, Inc. has tax-exempt status under IRC 501(c)(3). DLN: 26053453001403
Our Top Priority Is Taking Action
Start with a passion
● We can make a change
● We will have a bright future
on earth
● We can save our planet
Acquire your team
● Find at least one like-minded student.
● Come up with a budget
● Communicate with the founders
Contact us
● Communicate with the founders and consult
Execute your plan
● Talk and present to your
school president
● scout for a location on the school to plant the trees
● Set up a date to plant and take pictures
What inspired us to start this initiative?
We are athletes, and we often had to cancel our soccer games and soccer practices because of poor air quality secondary to wildfires. Then we realized that we need to do something since climate change is real and will affect our lives and our children’s lives in the future. We thought we could utilize our connections through soccer and other connections in the United States and internationally to make a change. Through these contacts, we can have representatives throughout the world. We have also contacted schools by directly emailing schools worldwide.
Why Is YOUTH GLOBAL CLIMATE INITIATIVE
DIFFERENT THAN OTHER ORGANIZATIONS?
Most Climate Change organizations need to be more focused. Instead of starting locally and growing globally, we are doing both simultaneously. We are planting the seeds and allowing them to pollinate themselves worldwide. First, we identify a country on each continent to be the trailblazer. Then, we will utilize all contacts possible to identify neighboring countries that can do the same. Then, the first school within each country can recruit and find other schools. This will have exponential growth. Now that we have made connections worldwide, we have started to implement a Climate Change and its effects on health curriculum; We are starting this as a pilot program and then growing from there.
Kian Manshadi, Co-Founder
Kevin Manshadi, Co-Founder
Ryan Kian Manshadi is a second-year Global Health major at the University of California, San Diego. His goal is to become a humanitarian physician and serve humanity globally. He hopes to contribute meaningfully to the fight against climate change on a global scale. He has actively engaged in initiatives that promote sustainable practices, such as advocating for clean energy policies and participating in community-based projects aimed at reducing carbon footprints. By leveraging his global health major, he is committed to driving positive change and fostering a healthier future for both people and the planet.
Kevin Kaevan Manshadi is a first-year university student at UC San Diego. His major is Global Health. He's driven by a noble aspiration to become a physician and make a meaningful impact on humanity. Kevin believes in the power of unity when facing global challenges. He envisions a world where humanity can collectively address pressing issues like climate change, recognizing that we can overcome any obstacle that life throws our way.
During the initial stages of the global COVID-19 vaccination campaign, Kevin’s compassion and resourcefulness were not just bright, but a beacon of hope. He embarked on a successful fundraising effort, raising nearly $10,000, which he used to provide invaluable assistance to the elderly in his community. Through a partnership with Uber, Kevin ensured that these senior citizens had access to free transportation services, facilitating their journey to vaccination centers. This initiative resulted in hundreds of elderly individuals receiving the protection they needed during these challenging times. Kevin’s dedication to service and his proactive approach to helping those in need exemplify his commitment to making a positive impact on the world around him.
Empowering Change Through Global Tree Planting
In a remarkable display of environmental stewardship, 22 schools in a single district of the Philippines have banded together to plant an impressive total of 418 trees. This exceptional effort has garnered the attention of the Office of the Vice President of the Philippines, who recognized the YGCI (Youth for Green Climate Initiative) organization for their outstanding commitment to environmental conservation. As a testament to their dedication, the YGCI has been bestowed with a certificate of recognition for their role in this commendable endeavor.
The YGCI organization has been actively promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about the significance of preserving our natural resources. By collaborating with schools, they have not only facilitated tangible change but also instilled a sense of environmental responsibility within the younger generation. Furthermore, on a global scale, the YGCI and its passionate volunteers have collectively planted nearly 1000 trees within a span of just one year. This milestone reflects their unwavering determination in combating deforestation, mitigating climate change, and fostering a healthier planet.
These accomplishments serve as a reminder that even small actions can yield significant outcomes. Each tree planted contributes to the fight against deforestation, aids in restoring habitats, and paves the way towards a more sustainable future. The success of the YGCI in mobilizing schools, communities, and individuals to make a positive environmental impact is truly commendable.
Let us take a moment to applaud the collaborative efforts of the 22 schools in the Philippines and extend our heartfelt congratulations to the YGCI organization for their unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements. Together, we can forge a greener and more sustainable world. Join us in planting trees, inspiring others, and making a lasting difference.
If their story has inspired you, consider engaging with local environmental organizations, spearheading your own tree-planting initiatives, or simply raising awareness about the vital importance of environmental conservation. Every tree planted counts, and by working collectively, we can create a significant and lasting impact.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and updates on environmental initiatives from around the world. Let us continue our collective efforts towards building a better future for generations to
come.
We Have the Power to Impact Our Future, and We’re Doing Something About It
The Problem
The world is facing severe climate change
resulting in devastating challenges worldwide.
The world is also polarizing instead of uniting.
The Vision
To get youths of Middle school, high school, or college age to plant 9 or 19 Italian cypress trees, preferably at their school campuses or anywhere in their respective countries. The idea is to show the world if united and focused on just planting trees and nothing more, this can be achieved. This will unite the youth worldwide and, at the same time, help alleviate and mitigate the climate change progression.
Kevin and Kian had the opportunity to meet
the champion who helped plant trees in
England, Mr. Terry Gurr at a dinner in
Stockton, California.
Kevin and Kian had the opportunity to meet
the champion who helped plant trees in
England, Mr. Terry Gurr at a dinner in
Stockton, California.
UGANDA
Omoo, Ngora District, City of Kampala,
Uganda
On Thursday 29 September the Junior youth/youth from Louise Gregory memorial school (LGMS) were able to plant the 9 cypress trees under the youth global climate initiative. LGMS was established in 1961.
The school is found in the remote village of Omoo, Ngora district, about four and a half hours drive from the capital city of Kampala, Uganda.
MEXICO
Rancho La Atarjea 801,
León, Mexico
On November 9, 2022, A group of 7 high school students planted 19 Italian Cypress trees under the Youth Global Climate Initiative. The school’s name is SABES located in Leon, Mexico
Bachillerato SABES Arboledas
de los López
León, Guanajuato, México
Alumnos que participaron: Angel Zapata, Joseline Lopez, Danna Padilla, Dulce Zapata, Gabriel Patiño, Juan Rangel, Adán Cordero, Monica Granados y Dilan Lopez
Directora: Ana Machain
19 árboles plantados
SABES Arboledas de los López
inició en Julio 2013
ITALIA
Scuola Elementare “Don Bosco” di Corfino Garfagnana, Lucca, Italia Est. 2009
19 Italian Cypress trees were planted under the initiative of Youth Global Climate Initiative project at the school in Corfino, Italy on November 11, 2022. Present were the Mayor, the School Administrators, and the youth.
Bacolod City, PHILIPPINES
Bacolod City, Negros Occidental Philippines
On November 22, 2022, 19 Italian cypress, trees were planted at Bacolod City National High school Bacolod City, Negros Occidental Philippines in collaboration with the Global Youth Climate Change initiative.
The Youth planted these trees under the supervision of school administrators, the science faculty teacher, Mrs., Mina, Perez, and the school principal, Dr. Richard Gelangre.
Negros Occidental, PHILIPPINES
Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, PHILIPPINES
The Youth for Environmental Schools Organization (YES-O) Club of Bacolod City in partnership with the Youth Global Climate Initiative conducted a Tree-Planting Activity last December 19, 2022, at the Horseshoe Garden, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. Twenty (19) Italian Cypress Trees were planted by selected YES-O Club Members and their Adviser, Mr. June Nathan M. Fernandez. The said activity was also joined by Dr. Liza Chan and Mrs. Mina M. Perez who are both environmental advocates.
The Cypress Tree represents everlasting life, thus giving the YES-O Club a lifelong legacy of making a positive impact on climate change and most especially on the environment.
Thank you to our students:
Crisandra Irish P. Comia – Grade 10 Newton
Francis Jhamyr J. Las – Grade 9 Dalton
Vhon Aeiou R. Cuenca – Grade 8 Orchid
Marianne Bless L. Abuana – Grade 10 Newton
Jenny L. Aducal – Grade 10 Newton
Blessy Ninia S. Paclibar – Grade 9 Pythagoras
Val Laurence Marapo – Grade 9 Pythagoras
INDIA
On December 21, 2022, nine Italian Cypress trees
were planted at The Shiv English School in
Amravati, the second largest city in the
Vidarbha region in the heart of India. The youth and the school officials planted these in collaboration
with the Youth Global Climate initiative.
ENGLAND
Youth Global Climate Change
We sincerely appreciate all the help from Mrs. Price and Mr. Gurr in facilitating this project. We also note that this is the first country in which we have been flexible to plant 9 Oak trees rather than Cypress, given that Cypress trees do not grow well in a cold climate. We can alter the project to achieve our primary goal of uniting the youth worldwide and helping with climate change.
Burnside supported this international student lead initiative by planting trees to raise awareness of climate change, and its effects. This project originated in America and has crossed five different countries and four continents so far.
Burnside students and their American peers discussed the project together, which resulted in planting nine oak trees across the school site. The trees were kindly donated by one landscaping with the support of our Mr. GURR Dash CHAR of governors. This will form the start of the “protecting the environment“ project led by the school council, where students with the informing, raise awareness and lead positive change on aspects of climate change in our community.
Philippines
Handumanan National High School
Allan M.Pomada Principal III
Handumanan National High School
Boys Scouts of the Philippines
Outfit advisers Teresita M. Potato
Asst. Outfit adviser Ilonwy Ivon A. Cañada
On January 9, 2023, and other 19 Italian cypress trees were planted in handuman, bacolod city
The boy, Scouts of this school collaborated with the youth global climate initiative to make this happen. The Global Youth Climate Initiative leadership is very grateful and thankful to the school principal Allan Pomada and the youth collaborators.
Israel
Nineteen trees were planted on Feb 5th in Jaffa in the Tel Aviv district in Israel. “Hatichon Hachevrati” (the social High) Tel-Aviv-Jaffa is a small professional high school. According to School Advisor Mr. Thomas Negev, “We believe that the center of the school is the relationship (between adults and youth, between students), and the main subject in our learning is our society- we learn from, and about real-life problems, we try to find out what do we think about the world and how we can make it better, today. Our students are meeting inspiring activists, researchers, and artists as part of learning and experiencing social change tactics.”
This is a unique experience since we collaborated with this school. As mentioned, the main idea is to plant primarily Italian Cypress trees, but we are flexible to incorporate geographical cultures and the natural environment. In this case, the idea is to make a lovely garden in this location that correlates with the historical trees wild to this area. They are Fig, pomegranate, orange, olive, and similar trees. Another pleasant experience with this project was while unearthing the ground, and an old historical artifact was also found.
Philippines
Victoria National High School in Victoria city, Philippines
On March 3rd, 2023
Victoria National High School in Victoria city, Philippines planted 19 Cypress trees in collaboration with Youth Global Climate Initiative organization.
We appreciate the leadership from Suzzete S Belandres, Ph.D.- Principal, Mr. Noel Mamac- Class adviser and the eight high school seniors.
Philippines
On March 12th, 2023 National High School at Cadiz City, Philippines planted 19 Italian Cypress trees in collaboration with Youth Global Climate Initiative. We like to thank the school administrator, Dr. Vicente F Gustilo, and the high school students for assisting with this global project.
Philippines
Empowering Change Through Global Tree Planting
24 schools 24×19=456 trees
Riverside College
Murcia national high school
Lopez jaena national HS
Alangilan national HS
hervias national HS
Medel national hs
Barangay 13 youth federation
barangay 30 youth federation
Barangay Taculing youth federation
paglaum national highschool
talisay baptist school
Carlos hilado university
barangay Mansilingan youth federation
Barangay Minoyan Youth federation
Barangay 41 Youth Federation
Barangay 15 Youth federation
Montevista Youth federation
Domingo Lacson High school
Dona Corazon School
St Joseph School La Salle
Barangay Visata Alegre Youth Federation
Negros occidental Highschool
Kyrgyzstan
We are super excited to add United World International School,
Chuy region, Bishkek city, Kyrgyzstan to our list of global projects.
They are a non-profit educational organization in Kyrgyzstan. On March 27, 2023, nineteen Italian cypress trees were planted in this school. We appreciate all the youth and the administration for helping to make this a reality in this region. More about the school can be found at
United World International School
Mexico
Telesecundaria 123 School, Los Sauces, Leon Guanajuato, Mexico
YGCI likes to thank the school’s Principal, Judith Alejandra Nicasio Zermeño, and the teacher, Sergio Torres Luviano, in charge of planting the trees, and all the students at the school for planting 19 Italian Cypress Trees on July 4th, 2023 at Telesecundaria 123 School, Los Sauces, Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico. The students are also responsible to water the trees over their school year.
Stockton, California
University of the Pacific in Stockton California
We are proud to announce that our collaboration with the University of the Pacific marks a significant milestone for YGCI. Our initial focus was on middle schools and high schools, but now, we have successfully expanded our tree-planting initiatives to include the first university partnership with UOP.
Our vision extends beyond this achievement as we aim to spread our mission to universities worldwide, including those in the United States. We began our journey by establishing tree-planting initiatives in our local high school, Saint Mary’s High School. Our intent was to start local and then grow on a global scale.
With the University of the Pacific now on board, we are excited to replicate this success in our community and beyond, working hand in hand with universities to make a positive impact on the environment. Together, we look forward to a greener future for our planet.
At the tree planting event on October 26th, 2023, we were honored to have key members of the university faculty in attendance, showing their commitment to sustainability:
Toby Rose – Senior Superintendent for Grounds, whose expertise in campus landscaping has been instrumental in making this initiative a reality.
Jessica Bilecki – Sustainably Director, whose passion and leadership have guided our sustainability efforts.
Jaclyn Long – Associate Director for Donor Relations, a key figure in fostering partnerships for our environmental endeavors.
These visionary leaders are driving the University of the Pacific towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Nine Italian Cypress Trees:
Our Pledge to a Greener Tomorrow
A Sustainable Milestone Achieved
October 26th, 2023
Bali
19 Italian Cypress Trees Planted at SD No 2 Legian School in Bali
On November 11th, 2023, 19 Italian Cypress trees found their new home at SD No 2 Legian School in Bali, Indonesia, marking a significant step towards a greener future. We extend our gratitude to the Head Master, Noor Octafiyanti, for wholeheartedly collaborating with our initiative.
Argentina
Colegio Gaudi School Partners with YGCI for Global Health and
Climate Change Education Initiative.
On May 20th, 2024, Colegio Gaudi School in Buenos Aires, Argentina, partnered with YGCI to plant trees, marking the launch of an innovative Global Health and Climate Change curriculum. This collaboration aims to create customized educational programs for each past and future school, focusing on educating students about the adverse health effects of climate change. YGCI extends its heartfelt appreciation to the school principal, Mrs. Gisela Canduci, for her outstanding leadership and commitment to this initiative.
San Diego, California
UC San Diego and YGCI
Celebrate International Arbor Day with Tree Planting Initiative
On International Arbor Day, April 26th, 2024, in collaboration with UC San Diego 18 Red Push Pisatche trees were planted at the UC San Diego campus. Youth Global Climate Initiative Co-Founders are grateful to work with Chancellor Khosla, Mr. Mike Hogan, the Landscape Services and Urban Forestry Superintendent, and Mr. Mark Goldberg, UCSD Facilities Management to plant these trees.
Why Italian Cypress Trees:
The Italian cypress makes oxygen through photosynthesis all through the year. In this way, it adds to the air quality in the area. They have an aromatic resin that smells pleasant and adds to the garden scents in winter and summer.
Italian cypress trees grow like elegant columns. They have only one trunk, and no limbs branch outwards from the trunk. All the branches follow a narrow upward direction. In 2012 a wildfire swept through a plantation used for research by Spanish scientists. All the other trees burned but the copse of Italian cypress trees remained standing. These cypress trees were still green and showed no damage from the devastating fire. Only 1-2% of the Italian cypress trees had ignited – a remarkable fact compared to the neighboring trees of different species. They are fire-resistant.
Even though we are advocating planting Italian Cypress trees, we understand that there may be areas around the world these trees may not grow well. In these cases, a country can plant any tree that grows well based on the country’s climate.
COMING SOON
We are excited to welcome the following countries
Colombia
Australia
Thailand
Cambodia
Indonesia
Argentina
Buthan
Brazil
Brunel
Bolivia
Canada
Spain
Turkey
New Zeland
South Africa
OUR MISSION
TO PROVE THAT YOUTH WORLDWIDE CAN UNITE & MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON CLIMATE CHANGE
We are proud to be a nonprofit Organization
Saint Mary’s High School is very grateful for the 19 Italian Cypress Trees donated by Ryan, Class of 2023, and Kevin Manshadi, Class of 2024 pictured with President Brusa at the planting of the trees.
Ryan and Kevin founded the Youth Global Climate Initiative, -YGCI, One Tree at a Time. This program helps educate high school and college students that if people unite it can make a positive impact on climate change.
Kevin and Ryan planted 19 Italian Cypress trees at the edge of our campus near our Ross Cauressco Memorial JV Baseball Diamond. The Italian Cypress is regarded as one of the most fire-resistant trees in the world. It’s resilient to high temperatures and intense winds, also provides year-long color, and withstands both hot and cold conditions. It’s a fast-growing tree that makes oxygen through photosynthesis which adds to our air quality 365 days a year.
Many thanks to Ryan and Kevin for their donation to help make SM a greener campus!
For more information on YGCI, click the button below to visit their website!
“The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, The world, and those who live in it.”
-Psalm 24:1
Saint Mary’s High School is very grateful for the 19 Italian Cypress Trees donated by Ryan, Class of 2023, and Kevin Manshadi, Class of 2024 pictured with President Brusa at the planting of the trees.
Ryan and Kevin founded the Youth Global Climate Initiative, -YGCI, One Tree at a Time. This program helps educate high school and college students that if people unite it can make a positive impact on climate change.
Kevin and Ryan planted 19 Italian Cypress trees at the edge of our campus near our Ross Cauressco Memorial JV Baseball Diamond. The Italian Cypress is regarded as one of the most fire-resistant trees in the world. It’s resilient to high temperatures and intense winds, also provides year-long color, and withstands both hot and cold conditions. It’s a fast-growing tree that makes oxygen through photosynthesis which adds to our air quality 365 days a year.
Many thanks to Ryan and Kevin for their donation to help make SM a greener campus!
For more information on YGCI, click the button below to visit their website!
“The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, The world, and those who live in it.”
-Psalm 24:1
Saint Mary’s High School
Saint Mary’s High School
The first high school to plant not 9 but 19 Italian cypress trees is St. Mary’s High School in Stockton
California. The pictures are Kian and Kevin Manshadi with the president of the school, Mr. Jim Brusa.
The first high school to plant not 9 but 19 Italian cypress trees is St. Mary’s High School in Stockton California. The pictures are Kian and Kevin Manshadi with the president of the school, Mr. Jim Brusa.
Staff
1) Asia Continent – Coordinator, Anna Perez
2) Autralia Continent – Coordinator, to be
named
3) European Continent – Coordinator,
Terri Gurr
4) North America – Coordinator, to be named
5) Central and South America – Coordinator,
Tina Rocha
6) African Continent – Coordinator, Tahirih
Olinga
Youth Global Climate Initiative, Inc. has tax-exempt status under IRC 501(c)(3). DLN: 26053453001403
We appreciate your support!
As we receive donations, our growth will be exponential. Our initial focus is on purchasing trees for countries in need, and with further donations, we plan to expand our reach by partnering with other entities and investing in marketing efforts. We sincerely appreciate your generous donations and thank you for your support!
