The Hawai'i Legislature's Keiki Caucus and the Children and Youth Month Planning Committee are leading a grassroots effort to create a more prosperous Hawai'i. Join the state's legislators, community leaders and volunteers at a kickoff event for the Million Trees of Aloha and Caring for Our Beaches Project, 10 a.m. Saturday at the Honolulu Zoo.

The event, near the keiki zoo area, includes a tree planting and dedication, native tree and plant giveaway (limited quantities), free compost (bring your own bag or bucket), and educational displays and activities for the children. The zoo's admission rates are $12 general, $6 for kama'aina, $2 for children ages 4-12, and free for children age 3 and younger.

The project's goal is to plant one million trees by October, which is also Children and Youth Month. In addition, Kiwanis, a global organization of volunteers, will launch the Caring For Our Beaches Project with a private cleanup, 8 a.m. at One'ula Beach Park. About 100 volunteers will scour the sand for trash and debris.

During this past Children and Youth Summit, sponsored by the Hawai'i State Legislature's Keiki Caucus, one of the top priorities for children, youth and adults was planting more trees in our state and restoring beauty to Hawai'i's beaches. Those wishing to join the cause are encouraged to track their efforts and view the work of others by registering on Kanu Hawai'i's website at www.kanuhawaii.org/milliontreesofaloha and www.kanuhawaii.org/caringforourbeaches. For more information on the kickoff event, call 586-6130.