Growing a place to learn for children and families in Raszyn

In May 2026, a new community garden took root in Raszyn, near Warsaw, bringing together local children and adults, Microsoft volunteers, and One More Tree Foundation to support biodiversity, environmental education, and community connection. The garden is part of Connected by Nature, a project designed to help people learn about the natural world through hands-on activities close to home.

“Climate change, air pollution, and biodiversity loss are challenges faced by local communities across Poland,” says Maksymilian Liberski, co-founder of One More Tree Foundation. “That is why we have joined forces with Microsoft to help address these issues together. Connected by Nature enables us to take meaningful environmental action where it matters most—close to people and the places where they live.”

Across Raszyn and the surrounding area, the project includes planting native tree species, creating flower meadows that support pollinators, and hosting environmental workshops for children, young people, and adults. Together, these activities show that caring for the environment can begin with simple, shared actions—from planting flowers to learning how local ecosystems support everyday life.

As part of the project, a new garden was created at the Świetlik Community Center. Designed as a shared space for learning and connection, the garden will support educational and nature-based activities for children, caregivers, and the wider community. During the planting event, Microsoft volunteers worked alongside One More Tree Foundation and children from a local kindergarten to prepare the space and plant species selected for local conditions.

The garden features themed planting beds that support hands-on learning. Culinary and herbal beds include mint, basil, parsley, chives, and lemon balm, while vegetable beds include cherry tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and lettuce. Through these plantings, children can learn about plant growth, pollinators, composting, and seasonal cycles, while developing a sense of responsibility for the environment around them.

“The planting initiative was an important educational experience for children attending the Świetlik Community Center, teaching them to care for nature, responsibility, and sensitivity to the surrounding environment,” says Urszla Magdalena Sałata, director of the community center. “We would like to thank Microsoft for its support and commitment to the local community.”

The Connected by Nature project reflects One More Tree Foundation’s mission to protect the environment and raise ecological awareness through practical, community-based initiatives. Through activities such as tree planting, creating flower meadows, cleaning green areas, and organizing workshops, the foundation helps people better understand the role of nature in everyday life and encourages shared responsibility for local surroundings.