The voice of teens has become a wonderful and hopeful national movement of late. This April, Port Washington teens are energized to make a difference by tackling the community’s litter problem. A dynamic group of Schreiber juniors are leading the charge with Residents Forward, planning and innovating Clean Green Main Street.
When asked what will be different this year, Residents Forward Executive Director Mindy Germain said, “These teens light up a room with their passion and energy to rid our community of litter. They see this event as a kickoff to a broader ‘PW Gives A Litter Bit’ movement and are taking it to new heights.”
Sponsored by Residents Forward and the Town of North Hempstead, this year’s Clean Green Main Street event will take place on Saturday, April 21, starting at 9 a.m. at the LIRR Station parking lot facing Main Street.
“This event is so important to me because Port Washington is my home,” Clean Green Main Street Teen Leadership Committee member Michelle Fittone said. “It is important, not just for me, but for everyone in town. We all live here and it takes work to keep Port beautiful.”
During the event, volunteers will pick up litter, plant flowers and help Residents Forward with a new concept for the tree beds lining Main Street. Bach to Rock will perform live music and plenty of refreshments will be available.
“The impact of this event is bigger than just picking up litter,” Teen Leadership Committee member Nick Verdino added. “We hope to inspire people to make better decisions with their waste for the rest of their lives. Change is necessary for the future and change starts with us.”
Families, individuals of all ages, neighborhoods and Scouts are all encouraged to help. As usual, tool and materials will be available. Wear comfortable work clothes, a hat and sunscreen. Elementary school children are welcome, but adult supervision is a must.
“I think it’s really important for residents to volunteer for Clean Green Main Street,” Green Team Leadership Committee member Debbie Gersh said. “It’s amazing quality time and when a lot of different people are involved, it’s like one big team working toward something amazing.”
Students can obtain Community Service certificates signed by event co-sponsors Residents Forward and the Town of North Hempstead.
Residents Forward thanks Bach to Rock for entertaining everyone, as well the 2018 Clean Green Main Street/Litter Bit sponsors Deith Distributing Inc., The Drukier-Birnbaum Family, The Feingold Family, Beth and David Horn, Carrie and Dave Kerpen, PM Pediatrics, Honorable Fred Pollack and The Stehl Family.
There is no need to pre-register, but reserving a space, especially for groups, is recommended. Contact Residents at 516-767-9151 or info@pwresidents.org for details and call the morning of the event in case of inclement weather.
