Micro-Forests and Legacy: A Lecture Dedicated to Dorothy Roberts at San Antonio Catholic Church

Dorothy and her granddaughter share a joyful moment amidst the vibrant growth of the forest Dorothy planted months earlier.

Co-founder Lauren Robie shares heartfelt memories of her friendship with Dorothy during a presentation to friends, family, and the community.

A Lecture Dedicated to a Legacy

This past week, Hope Eternal Gardens had the privilege of presenting a lecture on micro-forests in honor of Dorothy Roberts. The event was hosted at San Antonio Catholic Church, Dorothy’s parish, making the evening especially meaningful for her family, friends, and community. It was more than an educational talk — it was a celebration of a life well-lived and a legacy that continues to inspire growth and renewal.

Sharing the Power of the Miyawaki Method

During the lecture, we introduced the Miyawaki Method — a globally proven approach to restoring ecosystems through dense, native plantings. We shared how this method is being used at Hope Eternal Gardens to transform former pasture into biodiverse forests, and how families like the Dorothy's can take part in planting living legacies that endure for generations.

Dorothy’s Family: The First to Plant a Memorial Forest

Dorothy’s family holds a special place in our story. They were the first family to participate in a forest planting experience at Hope Eternal Gardens — an act that not only honored Dorothy’s life, but also began a tradition that continues with every planting today. Their legacy lives on in the trees that now stand as symbols of remembrance, resilience, and renewal.

Dorothy beams with joy as her family helps her plant a new forest, surrounded by the lush greenery and promise of growth.

Dorothy waters newly planted trees in the forest, making her special contribution to the reforestation effort.

Dorothy’s Inspiration

Dorothy Roberts believed in the power of community and the beauty of nature. By dedicating this lecture in her honor and gathering at her parish, we recognized how her spirit aligns with the mission of Hope Eternal Gardens: creating life out of loss. Just as Dorothy enriched the lives of those around her, these forests will enrich the land and community for decades to come.

The forest grow more every day. The orchids added in her memory continue to bloom.

Looking Ahead

We are deeply grateful to San Antonio Catholic Church for hosting this special evening, and to everyone who attended, asked questions, and shared stories in Dorothy’s memory. Moments like this remind us that micro-forests are not just about trees — they are about people, legacies, and the connections that continue long after a life is lived.

Together, we will keep growing forests — and honoring lives — one tree at a time.