Pratt & Whitney Turns Patch of Land from Glum to Green During 'Green Apple Day of Service' at Hartford School

The Green Apple Day of Service – held each September – gives individuals, organizations and companies the opportunity to transform schools and other institutions of learning into clean, safe, energy-efficient environments.

Pratt & Whitney volunteers have been on hand for dozens of these events, and this year was no different, as seven employees were found pushing wheelbarrows, mulching, digging and planting decorative grasses and bushes in a previously barren spot of land in front of Hartford's Noah Webster School on Cone Street on Sep. 26.

"Green Apple Day gives us an opportunity to do two things that we love; connect with our community and promote sustainability," said Pratt & Whitney Global Environment Manager Kathy Sandin.

The day was particularly exciting for the school's children, as students from each recess wave were invited to help, said school Principal Jay Mihalko.

Fourth-grader Ben Roper not only worked throughout his 30-minute recess, but he finished his class work early so he could return to help out.

"It looked blank a little bit," he said of the area prior to the day's beautification. "I dug a hole, planted two plants and spread mulch."

"Working with the very enthusiastic students and teachers was not only rewarding, but a lot of fun," said Sandin.

Principal Mihalko noted that the school's Garden Club will help maintain the area.

The Green Apple Day of Service is coordinated through the Connecticut Green Building Council (CTGBC), which is a chapter of the United States Green Building Council. For more information, visit www.ctgbc.org.