Community Pride is a volunteer program for local businesses and community groups that want to partner with the city to help keep local parks, creek banks and streets litter-free.

The objectives of the program are to:

• Develop partnerships with local citizens, businesses and community organizations to participate in city cleanup efforts.
• Increase the level of cleanliness of city parks, creeks and streets while maintaining a high level of safety while work is performed.
• Positively affect the litter disposal habits and attitudes of those who participate in the program, as well as the residents who benefit from your efforts.

Once a group has committed to the Community Pride volunteer program, they are responsible for litter pick-up in their designated area. Together we can make a difference!

To sign up your business or club, contact the City’s Environmental Control Office at 284-6023 or jlewis@newtonkansas.com.

How to help

Talk to others in your organization or business about taking part in the Community Pride volunteer program. Benefits to being involved in the program are:

• Participants can make a noticeable difference in the appearance of our city streets and open spaces. Imagine litter-free streets and public spaces, such as parks and along the creeks, free of trash and other debris – your group could help us get closer to that goal. This helps to foster pride in our city and can make a difference in how residents treat the community.

• A team-building experience for you and your co-workers or organization members. In addition to the service your group would perform, you get to spend time with the other members of your volunteer team building relationships, sharing a common experience, and making a difference in the community.

• Recognition both for the organization and the participants. Volunteering is a way to give back to the community. Both the organization and individuals can benefit from involvement in projects that make the community better for everyone! Groups that meet all program criteria will have their name placed on a Community Pride sign in their assigned area.

• Minimal time commitment. Each group agrees to remove litter a minimum of three times a year for at least two years. One to two hours, three times a year can have a huge impact. In that time a Community Pride team can take a section of roadside or creek bank from eyesore to amazing! Best of all, you and your team can stand back and say, “We did that!”

Responsibilities

Crew members should have the following minimum qualifications:

• Good physical condition, including sight and hearing.
• Mental alertness.
• A sense of responsibility for the safety of the public and crew.
• Must be at least 9 years old.

The group’s responsibility is to pick up litter, not mow, trim or maintain any equipment. The City will provide safety vests and trash bags for each group. Group leaders will schedule the cleanup times with the Environmental Control Office at least five days in advance.

Program Brochure