May 31, 2026
The second joint community clean-up event organized by the York Region Caring Lions Club and the A2ZLiteracy Reading and Writing Club took place in my neighborhood today.
The event was originally scheduled for May 24 but was postponed due to rain. Personally, I enjoy summer rain because it freshens the air and nourishes the plants. Like many things in life, however, it comes with both advantages and disadvantages. The extra rain helped the grass and bushes grow rapidly, which made finding and collecting litter more challenging.
Equipped with single-use gloves and garbage bags generously supplied by the Richmond Hill Waste Management Centre, I began cleaning the area near my home. I was grateful for their support, which made the event possible.
As I walked through the neighborhood, I noticed several dog waste bags hanging from trees or left in the grass. This made me wonder: if the owners had already taken the time to bag the waste, why not carry it to a proper garbage bin? I also found large plastic bags scattered around. Perhaps they had been blown here by the wind after garbage collection day. In addition, there were a few advertising sign holders left behind, possibly forgotten after being used.
Some of the litter was hidden under bushes and trees, making it difficult to reach. I used a metal stick to pull it out and quickly understood why my mom had suggested wearing a long-sleeved shirt. By the end of the clean-up, I had gained a greater appreciation for the people who regularly maintain public spaces. Small pieces of litter can be surprisingly difficult to remove once they become tangled in vegetation.
Today’s experience reminded me that caring for the environment is not only about large-scale initiatives but also about the small choices we make every day. A cleaner community begins with individual responsibility. Every piece of litter removed may seem insignificant on its own, but together these small actions help create a healthier and more welcoming environment for everyone. I will continue this journey, one small action at a time.
