Philadelphia witnessed a royal visit as Prince Albert II of Monaco, the son of the beloved Princess Grace Kelly, returned to his mother's hometown. 

The Prince's visit had a significant purpose: supporting local conservation and environmental efforts in the city. His foundation's commitment to the environment was evident as he announced a substantial donation of $130,000 to bolster the Philly Tree Plan, a remarkable initiative for Philadelphia's urban forest.

Prince Albert II commenced his visit at Williams Moore Reed Memorial Park, where he conveyed his enthusiasm for the Philly Tree Plan's implementation. The plan, introduced in February, marks the city's inaugural strategy to nurture and expand Philadelphia's urban forest. The Prince's foundation's generous investment is poised to foster a tree-friendly culture across the city.

Imagine the transformation of Williams Moore Reed Memorial Park when these trees reach heights of a hundred feet, casting shade and providing oxygen for the neighborhood's residents. John B. Kelly III, the president of the U.S. chapter of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, expressed the park's potential for growth and greenery.

The foundation's grant, city officials affirmed, would play a pivotal role in advancing the ten-year strategic plan aimed at developing an urban forest and tree canopy in Philadelphia. Apart from planting trees and enhancing green spaces at Williams Moore Reed Memorial Park, the grant would facilitate street tree planting along Allegheny Avenue and nearby commercial areas. Yard tree giveaways in North Philadelphia and support for community groups in caring for newly planted trees are also part of this comprehensive initiative.

The funds, according to city authorities, would be instrumental in executing the Love Where You Live Greening Plan for Nicetown and Tioga, emphasizing the profound importance of this project to Prince Albert. His foundation's unwavering commitment to preserving and enhancing the planet's health aligns perfectly with the goals of the Philly Tree Plan, which aims to create a greener and more sustainable urban environment.

The significance of this endeavor is not lost on the city of Philadelphia. Vanessa Garrett Harley, Deputy Mayor of the Office of Children and Families, highlighted how this grant would facilitate tree planting and establishment care, particularly in crucial areas of the city. The ecological impact would be substantial, working toward environmental justice for all residents.

Prince Albert's second stop during the day brought him to the Philadelphia Zoo, where he toured The KidZooU. This wildlife academy serves as an educational hub and a unique children's zoo, allowing youngsters to get up close and personal with a variety of animals.

During the visit, Dani Hogan, the Philadelphia Zoo's Director of Mission Integration, expressed her surprise and gratitude. The Prince's foundation plays a pivotal role in funding the zoo's conservation education programs, both on-campus and in schools. This support is particularly vital because the zoo operates as a privately owned and operated nonprofit organization.

Hogan emphasized the crucial role played by foundational support, enabling the delivery of their mission, especially to Philadelphia's students. The funding supports multiple programs, including the UNLESS Contest, Wild Connections, and West Philadelphia Zoo Scholars, all of which contribute significantly to the zoo's educational efforts.