Community Comes Together For Annual Earth Day Clean-Up

CLAYTON, NC – Parks and sidewalks across Clayton look cleaner and greener as volunteers wrap up the annual Earth Day Clean-Up, including nine-year-old Lola Melton, who spent the morning thinking about the geese she has seen near her home and the trash they might eat.

On Saturday, April 18, Melton joined volunteers from across the community, working side by side with others to pick up litter and help protect local wildlife and public spaces. “I saw geese eating in a field, and I was worried they could get sick from the trash,” said Melton. “I wanted to help clean it up, so animals can stay healthy.”

Melton, who also wrote a letter to the mayor to raise awareness about protecting wildlife, is one of many volunteers who gathered at Horne Square from 8 – 11 a.m. to check in and collect supplies before heading out across Town. From there, volunteers spread out to clean streets, sidewalks, and green spaces, working together to improve places people use every day.

For some, the event was a chance to give back and take pride in their surroundings. “I love a clean, presentable community, and I think we all have a responsibility to take care of where we live,” said Kelsey Lemon, a Clayton resident of nearly five years and second-year participant. “It feels good to help make our neighborhoods look welcoming.”

Others saw it as a natural extension of what they already do. Chris Cowles, who moved to Clayton after retiring three years ago, says he often picks up litter during his daily walks and was glad to join a larger effort. “I have seen how quickly trash can build up if no one steps in,” said Cowles. “Being out here today means we are not waiting for someone else to fix it.”

Town leaders say the event continues to bring people together while building awareness about caring for the community. “This is about taking ownership of our community,” said Councilmember Porter Casey. “When people feel responsible for where they live, they are more likely to take care of it long after the event is over.”

After the cleanup, volunteers gathered at Deep River Brewing Company to return supplies and spend time together. Local groups shared information about environmental efforts, and participants took part in a small celebration after a morning of work.

Mayor Pro Tem Andria Archer says the impact of the event reaches beyond the day itself and helps set an example for the future. “When young people see this kind of action, it stays with them,” said Archer. “It helps build habits that carry forward and shape the future of our community.”