Sprouting a New Generation of Givers: A Heartwarming Story

By Brea Persing

Photo: Samuel Lundberg (left, in blue sweater) and his brother Sawyer Lundberg (right, in gray hoodie) pose with Mrs. Rose's kindergarten class at Eastside Connections School in 2024. Sawyer and Samuel distributed White Pine trees and shared Sawyer's book, 'Harry's Trees,' with the class. (Photo courtesy of Angie Lundberg)

Samuel Lundberg, an Eastside Connections 8th grader, is taking over the ‘Trees Across Berrien County’ project for his brother, Sawyer Lundberg.

Sawyer, a Freshman in college at the University of Michigan studying Business, started this project in 2022 when he was a Sophomore at Niles High School. He has a love for conservation, the environment, and his community, so he did what he thought was best, planting trees. Starting with elementary students was a no-brainer for him. Not because older students or adults wouldn’t like the idea or get behind the project, but because he wanted younger students to receive the education early. He wanted them to understand that they could make a difference, no matter their age or size. He even wrote a book in 2023 entitled “Harry’s Trees” to read and help encourage students on the importance of the environment and leaving a positive mark.

Since 2022, Sawyer has distributed 700 saplings across Berrien County and beyond through his project, achieving significant environmental impact. From donating tree saplings to schools across Berrien County to various cities in Berrien County, Cassopolis County, and even St. Joseph County in Indiana, no one can deny Sawyer’s passion for the environment and commitment to his community’s well-being for generations to come.

And now it’s time for the legacy to continue with Sawyer’s younger brother, Samuel. This year, Samuel will be distributing 160 tree saplings between the 2nd graders at Moccasin Elementary School in Buchanan, MI, and kindergartners at Eastside Connections in Niles, MI. Just like his brother, Samuel, his family, and some friends will be volunteering their time the Sunday before the Berrien County Conservation District’s annual Reforestation Tree Sale on May 2-3, 2025 in Berrien Spring, MI to help prepare the saplings for distribution—the new family tradition.

"I'm really excited to take over the 'Trees Across Berrien County' project from my brother," says Samuel. "It's amazing to think that something as simple as planting trees can make such a big difference in helping our environment. I'm grateful for the support and encouragement from the Berrien County Conservation District, my teachers, schools, and friends. It's going to be an incredible experience to continue making a positive impact in our community!"

The 'Trees Across Berrien County' project is a remarkable story of passion, dedication, and community spirit. From Sawyer's initial idea to Samuel's continued efforts, this project has made a tangible difference in Berrien County. We can't wait to see what the future holds for this inspiring initiative!