Volunteer to Clean the Neighborhood this Saturday

It's time to roll up your sleeves and get dirty for a good cause. 

This Saturday, April 20, neighborhoods across Chicago will be participating in the annual Clean & Green Day. The effort is a way for residents to get together and clean up parks and public spaces. 

Community groups register to receive tools and bags so they can equip volunteers to help beautify their favorite green space.

The 40th and 47th wards—covering Lincoln Square—have several community groups who have registered for the event and will be leading the clean-up efforts on Saturday. 

Here are a few ideas of how you can participate:

From Ward 47 Ald. Ameya Pawar:

Help beautify the ward by meeting at the Streets and Sanitation Yard, 5333 N. Western Ave. for a clean-up from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Residents can also help by:

• Painting the bottom of poles that have stickers or graffiti
• Readying corners for spring planting
• Helping older adults to clear out their yards and garages
• Manning a collection site for computer and electronic recycling
• Working along the river bank to spread chips, weed and pick up trash
• Electronic, Metal and Paper Recycling Drop-Off at 5333 N. Western Avenue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. In partnership with the Neighborhood Boys and Girls Club.

Greater Rockwell Organization and Ravenswood Gardens Homeowners Association Food Drive

Friday through Sunday, drop off non-perishable foods and personal items at Ruff Haus Pets, Rockwell’s Grill, Bloom Yoga, 4738 N. Artesian and 2527 W. Eastwood Ave.

Donations go to the Common Pantry, Chicago’s oldest operating food pantry.

Winnemac Park Neighbors

Join the Rojas family and Winnemac Park Neighbors in a spring clean-up Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the park. Breakfast and coffee will be provided.

Lincoln Square North Neighbors

Meet at Matty K's, 4874 N. Lincoln Ave. for a spring clean-up from 11 to 1 p.m. on Sunday. Rakes are provided, but feel free to bring your own cleaning supplies. 

West Edgewater Area Residents

Help tidy the community garden and pick up trash starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday. Supplies are provided and residents should meet at the WEAR Community Garden, 5800 N. Ravenswood Ave. 

Plan on volunteering? Tell us where in the comments.