A tradition originally started in 1989 is being brought back to Cleveland once again. Each year, volunteers come together with the goal of cleaning up streets and picking up trash before it has a chance to flow into the rivers. This event is called RiverSweep.
With the intention of opening up new areas and promoting a more environmentally friendly planet, volunteers have done a tremendous job. Over the course of 35 years, more than 1.5 million pounds of trash have been removed from nature.
These acts have shown profound results. Over 400 acres of land have been conserved and cleaned, allowing for the addition of 14 miles of trails and the expansion of new parks, trails, and greenways.
This year, RiverSweep was held on May 3, 2025. A group organized by Mr. Palumbo, a science teacher at BBHHS, volunteered to participate in the project.
Despite the rain and cold weather, the group worked hard for a couple hours leaving places much cleaner than they had been before.
Carina Kosla, a sophomore at BBHHS, helped with RiverSweep for the second time. She said, “This is a great opportunity to give back to the community and make a big impact.”
Volunteers receive a free T-shirt, pizza, and lemonade all while helping to clean the environment and prevent further pollution.
Kosla added, “I feel like everyone chipped in, and together we were able to make a positive impact. Can’t wait for next year!”
