Our third build, lots of trees

Written By Lisa Watt Banks

Our third build was inspired by a friend who asked if they could participate in a Habitat for Humanity project in honor of Lucas. I reached out to Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat to see if they had any upcoming tree-planting opportunities. They arranged for us to join a Saturday build at a triplex that needed three trees and several plants. Our crew purchased the trees and plants, and we gathered 19 family members and friends to help with the landscaping and planting.

It was a rainy spring day, but we bundled up and got the job done. We provided coffee, snacks, and lunch for everyone, and before planting the trees, we came together to share a story about Lucas—reflecting on our ongoing connection to him and expressing our gratitude to those who continue to honor his memory through their time and generosity.

Lisa Watt Banks

Lisa Watt Banks holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology with a certificate in Social Work specializing in Children and Family Services. With over 30 years of experience working with children, youth, and families—including training new social workers with the Children’s Administration—she brings deep compassion and expertise to her work. Over the pas ten years, Lisa has facilitated support groups for middle school youth, focusing on navigating big emotions in healthy ways and led Teen Mental Health First Aid sessions. She is also a certified 200-hour Vinyasa Flow Yoga instructor and holds a certificate in Nature-Informed Therapy and the Sacred Path of Aloha with Kumu Ramsay Taum.

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2. Our second build, Lucas’s 22nd Birthday