Co-Founder/Co-Director, Matt Shipley, Stepping Down
Community Greening has announced Co-Founder Matt Shipley will be stepping down from his Co-Director position at the urban forestry nonprofit to pursue another opportunity in South America. Co-Founder Mark Cassini will serve as the sole Executive Director of the organization beginning in April.
“Matt and I have worked closely together since founding Community Greening in 2016. His expertise and work ethic have been critical to the organization’s success, and his commitment to and enthusiasm for our mission are unmatched,” said Mark Cassini. “Personally and professionally, he’ll be missed but we are both confident that the Community Greening team is ready and able to continue the great work we are doing in South Florida.”
During Matt’s tenure, Community Greening grew from a concept to a thriving nonprofit with 11 full-time staff members, 10 local students on the Youth Tree Team, and more than 12,000 trees planted across Palm Beach and Broward Counties. Matt has shared his knowledge and experience with urban forestry efforts across the state through his service on the Board of the Florida Urban Forestry Council, as well as presenting at local, state, and national meetings and conferences. Matt leaves a large green footprint in South Florida, especially in his hometown of Delray Beach with projects like the Community Grove at Catherine Strong Park, and tree plantings in Barwick Park, Lake Ida Park, and neighborhoods across the city benefitting the environment and residents for decades to come.
“The impact and growth of this organization have been massive and it’s all thanks to an involved community,” says Matt Shipley. “I couldn’t be prouder of Community Greening and the amazing people that work for it every day and those who spend their time volunteering. I have no doubt in my mind that Community Greening will continue to thrive, inspire, and do good for South Florida. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this award-winning cause and to those who will help in the future. Plant more trees!”
Friends of Matt and Community Greening are invited to attend a Going Away Party at Sweetwater in Boynton Beach on March 31, 2023, starting at 6pm.