With its roots in backcountry settings, the Leave No Trace philosophy is now used anywhere outdoors – from remote wilderness areas to local parks and neighborhoods. When trash isn’t disposed of properly, it litters outdoor spaces, affecting other people, water, and animals. In fact, plastic bags, cigarette butts, fishing line, and other trash can be deadly.
The City of Asheville has partnered with local organizations to host neighborhood cleanups over the next few weeks to keep litter off our streets and out of our streams. Lend a hand and enjoy physical and mental health benefits such as feeling a sense of accomplishment, getting exercise, enjoying fresh air, meeting new people, and all that comes with living in cleaner surroundings.
Advanced registration is appreciated, but not required. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes and work clothes that can get dirty. Gloves, safety vests, bags, and tools are provided.
Downtown – April 19, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Downtown plays a central role with commercial, cultural, and recreational activities concentrated within its footprint. Meet at Rabbit Rabbit (75 Coxe Avenue) to sign in and receive instructions. Raffle prizes, music, and treats from Devil’s Foot Beverage Company and The Hop follow at the same location after the cleanup.
Partners include Asheville Downtown Association, Asheville GreenWorks, BeLoved Asheville, Devil’s Foot Beverage Company, Rabbit Rabbit, and The Hop.
West Asheville – April 23, 10 a.m.-noon
West Asheville knows how to host a cleanup! Meet at Archetype Brewing (265 Haywood Road), grab breakfast provided by Biscuit Head and Sunny Point Cafe, and pick up trash and recycling along this busy gateway in a bustling neighborhood.
Partners include Archetype Brewing, Asheville GreenWorks, Biscuit Head, OnHaywood, Sunny Point Cafe, The Hop, and West Asheville Business Association.
Burton Street – April 23 and May 21, 10 a.m.-noon
Discover treasures throughout the Burton Street community as neighbors venture into the neighborhood one last time before summer’s arrival. Meet at Burton Street Community Center (134 Burton Street) and enjoy a delicious lunch afterwards.
Partners include Burton Street Community Association and RiverLink.
Southside – April 23 and May 28, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Celebrate the legacy of Southside and explore the unique Erskine, Livingston, and Walton neighborhoods, located between downtown and the River Arts District. Meet at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center (285 Livingston Street) and return after for a catered lunch with neighbors.
Partners include Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Center Advisory Board, Friends of Walton Street Park, RiverLink, and Southside United.
Plan Your Own
The City of Asheville and Asheville GreenWorks have made it easy to plan your own neighborhood cleanup by providing supplies and trash collection. Sign up online.
If you have a passion for community, check out the benefits of volunteering. Want to turn your passion into a career? Check out current employment opportunities with Asheville Parks & Recreation.