Team FACES Pakistan, Nabeel Anthony (Fundraising Officer), Monica Gill (Head of Programmes)
Organized by FACES Pakistan In collaboration with ASA Microfinance Bank
Introduction
In the heart of Raiwind, a vibrant effort was carried out by FACES Pakistan, in collaboration with ASA Microfinance Bank, to breathe life into a vision of a cleaner, greener, and more engaged community. The “Plantation and Cleaning Drive – Chapter Raiwind” was not just an environmental campaign—it was a call to action, particularly for the children and young minds who will shape the future of their community.
At its core, this initiative sought to plant more than just trees. It aimed to plant ideas, responsibility, and a deep-rooted sense of ownership toward the environment.
Purpose and Philosophy
The primary goal of the drive was two-fold:
- To involve the local community—especially children—in sustainable practices by making them active participants, not passive bystanders.
- To create cleaner public spaces and green sanctuaries within the neighborhood that everyone could take pride in.
We believed that real, lasting change begins at the grassroots level. By engaging schools and families directly in the process, the drive aimed to spark a cultural shift in how people think about their environment
Engaging the Young: Awareness in Schools
One of the most powerful components of this campaign was the interactive awareness sessions conducted in local schools across Raiwind. Recognizing the importance of clear and culturally relevant communication, our facilitators used local languages and accessible storytelling to connect with the children.
We talked to them not only about climate change and pollution, but also about everyday actions—like picking up litter, planting a tree, or saving water—that can make a real difference.
The sessions were full of laughter, curiosity, and insight. Children eagerly shared their thoughts and dreams for a greener neighborhood, and many surprised us with their awareness and concern.
The Green Ambassadors Initiative
From each school, we selected a group of enthusiastic and promising students to become “Green Ambassadors” of their community. These children were chosen not just for their academic performance, but for their passion and willingness to take initiative.
They were given the responsibility to:
- Spread environmental awareness among their peers and families.
- Lead future cleaning and plantation activities.
- Act as guardians of the green spaces developed during this campaign.
Watching these young ambassadors speak to their classmates, organize clean-up zones, and proudly wear their green badges was a testament to the power of youth-led change.
Community-Led Plantation and Clean-Up
The heart of the campaign lay in its hands-on activities: the plantation of trees and cleaning of public spaces.
On the designated day, dozens of children, parents, school staff, and local residents came together. Armed with saplings, tools, gloves, and garbage bags, the Raiwind community rolled up their sleeves and got to work.
- Trees were planted in schoolyards, street corners, and open fields.
- Roadsides were cleared of litter and waste.
- Participants placed slates with the names of children or community elders next to each tree, turning every sapling into a personal story.
The entire event turned into a celebration—of nature, community, and hope. Many residents expressed how they felt proud to be part of something that would grow over the years and benefit future generations.
Collaboration and Gratitude
This initiative would not have been possible without the steadfast support of ASA Microfinance Bank, whose partnership helped us bring this vision to life. Their commitment to social responsibility and environmental well-being deeply resonated with the goals of FACES Pakistan.
We are also grateful to the teachers and school administrations who welcomed us so warmly, and most of all, to the residents of Raiwind—especially the children—who brought their energy, compassion, and hope to this campaign.
Conclusion
The success of this drive reaffirms our belief that sustainable change begins with community—with people who care, who participate, and who dream of better spaces for themselves and their children. FACES Pakistan will continue working hand-in-hand with communities like Raiwind to build a cleaner, greener Pakistan—one tree, one child, and one neighborhood at a time.