Planting a tree opens the human heart. Friends, family, and community are planting trees all over the world to share the light and love of Ela Deniz, a joyful child who delighted in flowers and trees. We’ll continue updating the map (see a larger version) for as long as Ela’s Forest keeps expanding.
Plant a Tree
People have planted trees at their homes or in public parks and forests (with permission, of course.) Some have donated trees through organizations such as the Arbor Day Foundation or Jewish National Fund or local parks departments.
If you plant a tree, please send us its location and a photo so we can put you on the map.
Museum Exhibit
The Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College is honoring Ela’s memory with an exhibit, Ela’s Forest, Nov. 16, 2019 to Feb. 23, 2020. The exhibition features “works by artists close to Ela and her family. It is meant to be an expression of love, support, and comfort to the family as well as a poignant reminder of the importance and power of community,” writes Claire Orologas, executive director emerita and curator of Ela’s Forest.
Ela’s Light Rocks
Another global movement: Friends and community are painting rocks and leaving them in public places to be discovered. The hashtag #elaslightrocks directs the finder to the Ela’s Light Rocks Facebook and Instagram pages, where they learn of the special girl who inspires others.
