Lakewood residents gathered at the Lakewood Public Library on Saturday, April 25, for the annual Keep Lakewood Beautiful Earth Day Clean-Up. From 9 to 11 a.m., volunteers of all ages dedicated their morning to improving the community’s environment by picking up litter.
Volunteers were given buckets and grabbers and sent out across Lakewood’s public areas to collect trash. Some stayed near the library, while others branched out to other areas of Lakewood.
“Volunteers will be sent out with buckets and grabbers to pick up litter around the library, and some people will travel to other spots in Lakewood to pick up litter there,” said Lisa Kowalski, a Lakewood resident and volunteer.
The goal for that day was to help reduce the trash and litter that was around the community, keeping pollution off the streets, parks, and waterways. This was done so that residents of Lakewood can enjoy cleaner surroundings.
The event had a great turnout, with volunteers eager to help. Agnes Michalak, the event chairperson, was very grateful for the turnout. Michalk stated, “We’re almost out of buckets. It shows the community that there are people [who] care about having a clean place.”
Michalak was very happy with how the event turned out, as individuals, families, and students worked together toward a goal of helping clean up the community. Beyond the physical act of cleaning, the event also served to educate the community.
Local organizations set up booths to provide information on environmental responsibility. Representatives from Cuyahoga Recycles shared tips on proper recycling and reducing landfill waste, while other groups focused on water conservation, soil protection, and sustainable gardening practices. These booths allowed participants to learn practical ways to make environmentally conscious choices in their daily lives.
To support the local ecosystem, Keep Lakewood Beautiful (KLB) provided native tree species, such as Silky Dogwoods and Washington Hawthorns, for planting. These trees enhance the city’s beauty and provide food and shelter for wildlife. KLB also planted one tree within the community as part of the Earth Day celebration, reinforcing their commitment to long-term environmental health.
For many participants, the event was about more than just environmental impact; it was about building relationships. Ruth Gillette, a longtime KLB board member, reflected on her 15 years of involvement.
“I think it was maybe 15 or 16 years ago, a friend of mine on the board, and I did, and the rest is history,“ Gillette said.
Gillette highlighted the personal benefits of community service. “Meeting people through the community activities that you yourself enjoy both benefits the community in a positive way, but is probably equally beneficial to you as an individual,” she said. “You meet your neighbors—not the people right next door but the people a mile away and three miles away.”
The multi-generational nature of the clean-up was another key aspect of its success. Children, students, adults and seniors all worked side by side, showing how environmental responsibility is a shared effort.
Gillette described the atmosphere as “a really fun event” that brings together “children and young people and older people,” all united by a common purpose.
“This group showed me what it means to take care of our Earth and be passionate about it,” Gillette said. “And I think a lot of people in Lakewood feel the same way.” Her experience reflects how local initiatives can inspire lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.
Events like the Keep Lakewood Beautiful Earth Day Clean-Up play an important role in fostering both environmental awareness and community pride through hands-on action. Even small efforts can lead to meaningful change.
Through strong participation, dedicated leadership, and a shared sense of purpose, this year’s Earth Day Clean-Up once again showed what a community can accomplish when it comes together.
