Guest Blog: 8123 Impact - Celebrating World Cleanup Day

Join us on September 19th as 8123 Impact participates in World Cleanup Day! Visit the impact page of our website for more info. Read on for a blog from 8123 family member Kelly where she shares her advice on preparing for a cleanup! -8123

As we get ready for 8123 Impact Clean Up Day, I wanted to reflect on our June 8123 Impact Day! That day we were all encouraged to give back to our community in some way! From volunteering at the local food bank, to donating blood, or picking up trash in your neighborhood, we all set a goal for ourselves that day to give back to our community!

For the June 8123 Impact Day, I chose to pick up trash within my neighborhood. I noticed trash piling up along the major roads and nearby parks in my area as I would go for daily walks. Doing a trash pick-up seemed like such an easy way to give back to my community, spend some time outside, and make a positive difference.

I got my family involved to help with the neighborhood clean-up. It made it fun and was a great way to spend time with one another. Within 30 minutes of us walking through the neighborhood, we filled 2 large bags with trash. From hubcaps, to leftover graduation decorations, and various fast food cups, there was a wide variety of items. It was mind blowing to see all the trash others just tossed to the side of the road. 

As you prepare for your own 8123 Impact Day, below are some tips and recommended items for a successful and safe cleanup: 

·      Heavy duty garbage bags (2-3 is a good amount)

·      Gloves

·      A grabbing stick (if you have one)

·      A hat 

·      Sunglasses

·      Sunscreen 

·      Face protection (we are still dealing with COVID & it’s important to stay safe) 

·      Pre-pick an area you want to do your cleanup in – neighborhood, park, high traffic area, etc. 

I encourage you to gather a group of friends or your family. The more people involved means more trash is being collected. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are near a busy road. If you come across anything sharp or dangerous objects (used needles, razor blades, etc.) only pick them up if you have gloves on and try to put them in a hard-plastic container (i.e. water bottle) to prevent the puncture of the trash bag. Your safety is important!

Remember to have fun and take pride in your community! Not only are you helping make your neighborhood and community beautiful, but you are also helping out the environment with the trash cleanup!

-Kelly